Japanese Students Participate in a 2014 Career and Cultural Study Program in Vermont
On August 8, 2014, six students from the Onojo City International Exchange Association, located in Kyushu, arrived in Vermont, USA for a 12 day study program. The program consisted of three major areas of learning: a career work experience within local businesses, cultural activities focusing on Vermont agriculture, history and nature, and a 9 day host family stay.
The major component of the program, Career Work Experiences, placed students in hands on learning activities in the following businesses:
- High Horses Therapeutic Center – here two students experienced how to groom and care for horses. These horses are used for therapy with people who have physical and mental handicaps
- Big Fatty’s BBQ and Pizza Chef – a student learned how to make pizza and American BBQ.
- Killdeer Organic Vegetable Farm – the student learned about organic vegetable farming and the many different types of fruits, vegetables and flowers.
- Quechee Gorge Village Store – two students experience a large and unique retail store in Vermont. Students here price and stocked inventory put together gift boxes and was involved in customer service.
The cultural activities consisted of a trip to the Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Billings Farm Museum, Tip Top Pottery, Echo Learning Center, Cruise on Lake Champlain, Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, an afternoon of swimming and boating at Silver Lake State Park and a hands on learning experience in the Industrial Mechanics and Welding program at the Hartford Area Career and Technology Center. The farewell party was held at Alton’s Pond.
The host family stays provided students the opportunity to use their English language skills as well as experience, first hand, family living in Vermont.
Over the 12 day period many friendships have flourished and will continue through the use of technology and social media. The success of the project can only be measured through the voice and expressions of the students.
- For more information on this program, click here