Cultivating Global Perspectives in Japan
“I think for me, it’s realizing that there’s more outside of the San Diego bubble, the USA bubble, and there’s like this whole other world that is out there.” — Lily Rand
Thirty-six communication and political science students rolled their bags around the corner of the bus stop cheering and kicking pebbles into the air behind them. After fourteen hours of flying, I expected them to wear their jet lag from San Diego like weighted blankets, but they didn’t. Many skipped and waved to the camera as I recorded them happily plowing into the front door of our Kyoto, Japan, hotel.
This spring break trip to Kyoto and Tokyo would culminate all the students had learned in their Intercultural Communication and Politics and the Environment classes over the first half of the spring semester at the University of San Diego. The seven-day excursion would allow the two classes a chance to experience how their respective subjects play out in Japan compared to the United States.
Professor of Political Science and International Relations and Director of the Chapman Family Foundation International Program, Emily Edmonds-Poli, PhD, wrote the proposal to implement a study abroad experience into a regular semester to expand experiential learning and international education at USD. “The students really come away with a real appreciation, not just for the experience, but the way that they’re able to connect that experience to their academic learning,” said Edmonds-Poli.
Students had to apply and be accepted into the program, funded by a gift from the Chapman Family Foundation. Communication major Lily Rand knew an opportunity to use what she’d learned at USD in another country would most likely not come again. “The fact that we’re really able to dive into the culture of Japan, not only in class but in person, and see how they’re the same and how our cultures differ, is really insightful,” said Rand.
Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Noelle Norton, PhD, asked me to film the trip and showcase the students’ experiential learning firsthand. So, I followed them each day, gladly documenting their adventures and learning experiences.
The USD College of Arts and Sciences launched its inaugural Arts & Sciences Magazine this fall. In the pages of this magazine, you will discover exciting new programs and initiatives, meaningful and impactful stories, and inspiring student, faculty and alumni spotlights.
Read the full article on page 10 of the Arts & Sciences Magazine (Fall 2023 issue).
— Story and video by Michelle Kennedy