University California, Irvine Extension Hosts Japanese Language and Cultural Exchange Program for Local High School Students

IRVINE, Calif. – August 2, 2001 – University of California, Irvine Extension hosted a Japanese Language and Cultural Exchange Program from July 15 through August 2. The program paired high school students from Irvine with visiting Japanese students from ages 13 to 16 for three weeks of language classes, cultural studies and social and recreational activities at the UC Irvine campus. The program is closing with a graduation dinner and celebration tonight, Thursday, August 2, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at the UC Irvine Student Center's Emerald Bay B and C.

"I've had lots of fun getting to know these Japanese students because they enjoy teaching us words and pointing out things that are different from their county," says Natalie Roode, a participating UC Irvine student from Northwood High School. "Learning about a new culture has really helped me see things differently."

Daily morning sessions provide Japanese language and cultural instruction for American students, while the Japanese students study English. In the afternoons, the American students are teamed with their Japanese "buddies" for social sharing and learning experiences at Southern California landmarks, such as Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, Universal Studios and local beaches.

"Many of the Japanese students are visiting a foreign country for the first time, and they are typically very shy," says Motoko Okubo, sponsoring homeroom teacher from Japan. "This program is a great way for the students to learn to communicate with different people and become more independent."

The program is designed to provide participating students a summer enriched with learning, language and leadership. American students will learn a valuable foreign language, expand cultural appreciation, experience classes at a university level, develop leadership skills, serve as an ambassador for American life and form lasting international friendships.

"Students today normally don't have the opportunity to learn about other cultures firsthand," says Gary Matkin, dean of continuing education at UC Irvine Extension. "This program will provide both American and Japanese students an invaluable experience that will help them embrace foreign cultures and colleagues in the future."

UC Irvine Extension, the continuing education segment of the University of California, Irvine, offers over 2,000 university-level professional and personal enrichment courses, including 40 certificate programs and specialized studies every year. More than 18,000 students, most who already have college degrees, attend UC Irvine Extension annually. Custom education and training programs at business sites worldwide are also available. UC Irvine approves all courses and instructors. For additional information regarding UCI Extension courses and programs, visit www.unex.uci.edu or call (949) 824-5414. To learn more about the Japanese Language and Cultural Exchange Program, call the program coordinator, at (949) 824-7664.