Visiting students from Japan get an immersive UNI experience
Visiting students from Japan get an immersive UNI experience
International students enrich the University of Northern Iowa campus. Some are here for years, while others study at UNI for just a short time, such as a group of 10 students from the University of Yamanashi, Japan, who are on campus for four weeks. The students have enrolled in an English immersion program with a focus on professional communication and American culture as part of the Culture and Intensive English Program (CIEP).
The partnership with the University of Yamanashi, Japan, is one of several partnerships UNI has with universities in Iowa Sister States. Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, is Iowa’s oldest Sister State, with the formal agreement being signed in 1960.
“The main goal for them is to be exposed to see what we offer at UNI, so when they go back to Japan and talk to their faculty, they will be able to explain and tell them why it will be beneficial for both institutions to have a longer relationship,” said Carolina Coronado-Park, director of international engagement and the CIEP.
Director of International Admission and Recruitment Kristi Marchesani has started discussions with the biology, chemistry and Applied Engineering & Technical Management departments at UNI to develop dual degree programs with University of Yamanashi. Takeshi Nakamura, professor of Japanese literature and an associate at the Office of International Programs or the University of Yamanashi, visited UNI earlier this month and was able to meet with department heads and tour the facilities and laboratories.
This will be the third group of students from the University of Yamanashi, Japan, CIEP has hosted since 2019. Even during the pandemic, CIEP enrolled two groups from the university in online courses.
While in Des Moines for a week leading up to their visit, the undergraduate and master's students toured organizations related to their majors, which run the gamut from biochemistry to finance. The students also absorbed as much Iowa culture as they could, visiting the Iowa State Fair and touring the Capitol.
