Macleans College students volunteer as language assistants in Japan
Posted on February 13, 2024
Three 2023 Year 13 students from Macleans College embraced the opportunity to volunteer at Kokusai Junior College in Tokyo following their external exams.
Lara Teodorescu (Hillary House 2019 - 2023), Cynthia Teo (Kupe 2019 - 2023) and Andzile Mavuso (Hillary 2019 - 2023) served as language assistants at the college. The staff at Kokusai Junior College commended them for their exemplary behaviour, extending their compliments and gratitude to Macleans College.
With the success of this volunteer programme, more Macleans College students will be able to apply for this opportunity later this year.
Lara, Cynthia and Andzile share their experiences in their own words below:
'Participating in the Kokusai Junior College exchange to Japan was an extraordinary opportunity that I am very grateful for. The exchange allowed us to immerse ourselves in the daily routines of Japanese college students, and attending classes with them provided many insights into Japanese culture. Each day was a mix of English classes and exploring Tokyo - with afternoons for visiting a new area or trying new foods. We visited many destinations such as Ginza, Harajuku, Roppongi, and Disney Sea - and being guided by local students made the trips even more fun. The exchange also allowed us to improve our Japanese language proficiency and our ability to teach English. Overall, the Kokusai exchange was the best way to finish off our school career - a huge thank you to Macleans College and Kokusai Junior College for organising the experience.'
Lara Teodorescu
'The Japanese exchange program was an amazing experience that will be an unforgettable memory in my life. One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was exploring the bustling city and having an opportunity to delve into the beauty and intricacies of Japanese traditions. Throughout my time in Japan, I was grateful to have amazing buddies from Kokusai Junior College guiding us around. The program allowed me to converse more often with the students and it helped greatly in improving my Japanese. Beyond the structured activities, the spontaneous moments of connections made with classmates, locals and teachers enriched my experience. Reflecting on my time in Japan, I am filled with gratitude for the hospitality extended by Kokusai Junior College and enabling us to form genuine connections.'
Cynthia Teo
'Being able to go on this exchange trip was a highly enriching experience. The staff at Kokusai Junior College were very welcoming and accommodating to us. The students accompanying us were friendly and eager to practise speaking English with us, as well as willing to teach us new Japanese words. We very quickly became friends with everyone and promised to keep in touch. The school planned cultural and tourist experiences for us that we enjoyed, such as visiting Asakusa, participating in a tea ceremony, and going to Disney Sea. The trip's highlight for me was all the street foods. Since it was after all of our Level 3 exams, it felt like a graduation trip, and I'm glad to have had the opportunity to represent Macleans College for the final time.'
Andzile Mavuso
