The university's International Volunteer Project aims to help students encounter different cultures and values through hands-on activities overseas, deepen their understanding of social issues, and develop the ability to think and act for themselves. In the 2026 summer program, 60 students took part, each working at their placement on activities such as environmental conservation, community activities and education support, in line with local issues and needs.
At the debriefing session held on October 7 after their return, each student presented not only what they did, but also what they felt on site, the new insights they gained, and what they want to apply going forward. A student who joined an environmental conservation project in Portugal reflected on feeling confused by differences in culture and values, and said they learned how important it is not to impose their own assumptions, but to try to understand and respect the other person's values.
Listening to others' presentations also gave students a chance to hear the perspectives of peers who worked in other countries and regions. The university aims to help students go beyond treating their time abroad as simply a "valuable experience" by putting it into words and sharing it, so that it feeds into their future learning and growth.
Key points
- 60 students volunteered abroad in environmental conservation, community activities, education support and more
- At a post-program debriefing session, each student presented their insights and learning
- Reflecting on experiences and sharing them with peers to carry the learning forward
Why This News Deserves Attention
Overseas volunteering and study tours bring deeper learning when participants reflect afterward instead of simply going and coming back. A debriefing session where students put their experiences into words and share them is an important part of that process.
The student's realization about trying to understand and respect others' values reflects the very attitude most valued in international cooperation. It offers useful hints for anyone thinking about volunteering abroad.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“As many as 60 students worked abroad on environmental conservation and education support. What caught my eye is that the program didn't end at their return: in a debriefing session, each student put their learning into words.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I agree with Aoba about the importance of reflection. The story of the student who felt confused by different values in Portugal stayed with me. It's through that confusion that respecting others becomes something you can express in your own words.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“Hearing you both, I felt that confusion itself is a real form of learning. Hearing about other countries through peers' presentations is another strength of a debriefing session. I hope these experiences lead the students to their next step.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“The student's words about feeling confused in a different culture and learning to respect others from that experience really stayed with me. Insights like this come from actually going to a place.
If you have joined a study tour or volunteer program yourself, why not take a moment to look back on your own experience?”