Activity report
U.S. Study Abroad Seminar – Sponsored by the U.S. Embassy and JAOS
November 12, 2010 at the Fukuoka Prefectural Center for International Exchange November 19, 2010 at the Naha City Public Welfare Center
Based on the same series of seminars conducted in Sapporo, Sendai and Niigata in September, these events were titled, ‘Overseas Study in the U.S. as Career Design’ (Raising awareness of how global human resource development and overseas university studies/high school and university exchanges are an aspect of ‘career design’.). These two seminars were enhanced by the additional inclusion of Ms. Hitomi Okazaki (Editor of Rikunabi for Recruit Co. Ltd.). 17 people participated in the Fukuoka seminar while 24 joined the Naha event. One high school vice-principal present at the Fukuoka event stated, “Regarding globalization, I think the ‘Black Ships’ (ref. Matthew Perry) have finally arrived for Japanese university students. High school guidance counseling must now change.” This statement echoes the main purpose of this seminar. If more teachers don’t take a similar stance, it will be difficult for Japan to change. Such words demonstrate the meaning of JAOS-led activities.