School Visits

We have visited many universities during this term: Gonzaga University, Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, Spokane Falls Community College and New Mexico State University. We learned and felt many things at all visits. Universities in America are really different from universities in Japan.

First, I felt like American university students were more energetic than Japanese students. We attended some classes and observed them. American students frequently asked questions or gave their opinions to teachers. When the teachers asked, “ Do you have any questions?” many students asked questions. I think this doesn’t often happen in classes in Japan. Many students are quiet and seem not to be interested in class. American university students attend classes more eagerly than Japanese university students.

Second, American university students are energetic, but American university teachers are also energetic. Many teachers often asked questions of the students and they tried to get students to understand clearly. They didn't only teach their subject. They asked many questions and requested interesting answers. They seemed to need student’s opinions to continue the class. I thought the relationship between American students and teachers was better than between Japanese students and teachers.

Finally, I felt comfortable in the classes I attended. I attended an Intercultural Communication class at SFCC. It was the first time for me to attend the class, but many students spoke to me. There was even a student who spoke to me in Japanese. I was really nervous and I think I actually looked nervous. They removed my nervous feelings and tried to help me understand the class clearly and enjoy the class. They were really friendly and kind.

I discovered many things in all visits. Every single time I visited a university, I discovered and noticed something. These things make me more energetic.