KCP - A Great Experience Past Review

By (Chemical Engineering., Princeton University) - abroad from 07/06/2013 to 09/19/2013 with

KCP International Japanese Language School: Tokyo - Intensive Japanese Language Immersion

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My Japanese improved tremendously, and the change of setting is quite refreshing. It was extremely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My Japanese improved tremendously thanks to the great care and support of the teachers.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration was extremely helpful, not only with school-related matters but also with things outside of school, like opening bank accounts.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I would not do the dorms again.

* Food:

Japanese food is delicious, but this doesn't really have to do with KCP at all.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It's more of what you make it, but KCP does offer a cultural class.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

National health insurance is great, though for short term residents, it might be more difficult.

* Safety:

Japan is extremely safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Roughly 100-150 dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook for yourself.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Talk in it as much as possible, even if you think you sound foolish.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Teachers
  • Other students
  • Immersion
* What could be improved?
  • Living arrangements
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I were more adventurous and arranged for my own housing. It would have been cheaper and probably nicer.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!