Reflecting on Years Since Joining the Cabinet Office Youth International Exchange Program's 'Japan-China Youth Friendship Exchange Program'"

Cabinet Office Youth International Exchange Program

I am a former participant in the Cabinet Office Youth International Exchange Program. I participated in this program in the year just before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, I've been involved with the program as an operating committee member for online projects, which don't require physical travel and allow for more flexible time management.

Looking back, I realize that the year I participated in the program was a staggering four years ago, and it makes me acutely aware of how time flies.

Since Participating in the China Program

I joined the program when I was a first-year graduate student. Right after entering graduate school, I was going through a slump because everyone around me seemed incredibly talented. I even faced some academic harassment during that time. It was a challenging period.

Throughout the year I participated in the program, which included pre-departure training and actual travel to China, I had the opportunity to explore a world beyond the rather insular environment of my graduate school. Additionally, I made many friends in both China and Japan, each with significant dreams and ambitions. Their determination and achievements inspired me to work harder in my studies and strive to challenge myself daily.

Moreover, my interest in international exchange grew significantly after participating in the program. I also realized that in a globalized world, the ability to communicate effectively in languages other than one's own is vital. This realization stemmed from my experiences during a homestay in China, where communication was quite challenging due to the language barrier. It led me to rethink my previous rigid mindset that I needed to become proficient in English before pursuing international experiences.

Afterward, as COVID-19 swept across the world and halted international travel, things became uncertain. However, last year, when the situation began to stabilize, I seized the opportunity to apply for my company's overseas training program. Now, I find myself in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

I believe that my initial experience with the Cabinet Office program was the catalyst for these events. It's about grabbing opportunities before they pass you by. I always wanted to live abroad, and today I'm here.

While living abroad itself was one of my goals, I wonder what lies ahead for me in the future. When new opportunities come my way, I hope not to miss them by creating unnecessary barriers or excuses.

In conclusion, participating in programs like the Cabinet Office's Youth International Exchange Program can open up doors you may not even be aware of yet. Embracing these opportunities and challenging yourself can lead to transformative experiences and personal growth.

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