The University of Findlay - The University of Findlay Hosts Nine Japanese Ambassadors

Eight students and one faculty member from the Kake and Takahashi
educational institutions in Japan pose with UF students during a game
of dodgeball. The group is visiting the UF campus as part of the Kake
Ambassadors Program through Sept. 13.

Photo credit: Jake Pinkava '07

Through Sept. 13, The University of Findlay is host to eight students and one faculty member from the Kake and Takahashi educational institutions in Japan as a part of the Kake Ambassadors Program. UF is returning the generosity of the Kake and Takahashi Institutions; the two groups hosted 11 UF representatives for three weeks in the summer during the Kake Bridge Program.

The purpose of the visit is “for Japanese students to experience the United States at a personal level, not abstract,” said Dr. Hiro Kawamura, UF associate professor of Japanese. The trip also allows the Japanese students to experience The University of Findlay from international students’ viewpoints.

A group of Japanese students in the
Kake program prepare a meal for
residents at the City Mission.

Dr. Fumiko Harada, special assistant
to the president and professor of Japanese at UF, helps students beautify a patio at the City Mission.

While the visitors will spend some time in class learning English and taking Intensive English Language Program courses, “the main activity is interaction with UF students,” said Kawamura.

Some of the University of Findlay’s students, professors and athletes will be introduced during tours of the environmental safety and health management program, physical therapy program and occupational therapy program as well as the equestrian farms. The students took part in some non-academic American activities, as well, including a game of dodgeball.

Outside of UF, the group has had the opportunity to interact with community members while volunteering at Findlay’s City Mission, a local nursing home and area schools. The group continues cultural relations with visits to Cedar Point, Amish Country, a local football game and the Hancock County Fair.

While this is an exchange designed to give its participants diverse cultural and educational experiences, Kawamura notes, “UF students should use this special opportunity as a way to broaden their perspective of the world as well.”

By Diana Musgrave '08
Communication Major
Arlington, Ohio