The readings were a fun way to branch into discussion/apply the language, even if they were probably one of the more difficult parts of class.
Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?
I really liked having the group sessions ahead of time to help prep for the actual classes. I think that without them, I probably would have felt less prepared going into my classes. It gave me a great foundation! I really liked the field trips, too, as I think they were a great way to see more of Japan and the different kinds of things you can find out there.
What were the most productive and interesting aspects of the program for you? The least interesting and productive?
I think that the classes were really interesting, and especially the readings. The readings were a fun way to branch into discussion/apply the language, even if they were probably one of the more difficult parts of class. I do wish that we did do more with the pronunciation practices in class, because in my level at least, we would simply read the sentences in class and not really practice them further/apply them.
What activities or materials did you find most helpful (e.g., pair work, drill practice, tests, small group sessions, textbooks, games)?
I really liked the structures of the classes. I think covered a wide range of applications for language -- reading, speaking, writing, and so on -- and I think that it covered them well. I also liked how we had Kotoba Day, which presented another fun project to help apply our Japanese. It was really fun!
Any suggestions for improving class activities or materials?
I think the one thing that might help is having more time to work with kanji outside of just working out of textbooks and going over the words. I think in the extra credit, we had to put kanji into sentences and I think that helped me think further about the kanji and how it is used.
Anything you especially liked in the living arrangements? Any problems you experienced?
I really liked the dorm that I stayed in. It was clean, well kept, air-conditioned, and the staff was always super friendly. I also personally liked the area where I was staying in because there was a lot of shops and restaurants nearby that you could check out if you needed/wanted to.
Any comments or tips for prospective/new KCP students?
Of course, when you're coming into this program, it's really important to keep in mind that it will be an intensive program, so be prepared to put in the time that you want. Otherwise, try your best to befriend as many people as possible and to use your Japanese as much as you can! I also think it's important to see as much as you can of the city, too -- it helps to get out outside of your studies and to see new things. It really helped me stay engaged/motivated! If you try your best to make the most of it, you WILL get the most out of it.
