On March 30th at Roskilde University starting at 10:30am, there will be a presentation on the July / August ’09 World Campus – Japan programs. In the Geo-fagsal building in room 02, General Manager, Robert Sloat will talk about the organization and program highlights. WCJ alumni Christian Damgaard and Anders Schaumann will also be in attendance to talk about their experiences in Japan in the summer of 2008.
March 19th, 2009: Two hours. What is two hours to a resident of Muro-en, a district of Uda where the average age is over 85? With a life so rich with history and remarkable experiences, a couple hours with a band of foreign strangers might not seem that special. Nevertheless, observing the expressions of joy and glee on their faces when World Campus – Japan participants sang songs with them was quite touching.
It does not take much to make an impact on the lives of the elderly and yourself. Basic interactions such as songs or even a simple a touch of the hand can be meaningful.
“My favorite time in history is this moment with you people.” Muro-en resident
March 18th, 2009: It was difficult to say goodbye to Suita city, but the lush serenity of Uda city welcomed us with open hearts. The busy cityscape of Suita is now replaced with the peaceful and relaxing village of Uda.
On our first day in Uda, we took advantage of the beautiful scenery with a nature hike. Of course, no hike would be complete with competitive fun and games. Four groups of participants competed fiercely in six mini games including “kendama” and picking up peas with chopsticks. A relaxing hike, gorgeous scenery, interesting games, and pleasant weather… it was almost perfect except for the fact that the awesome team of “Happi Happi Pandas” somehow lost!
March 17th, 2009: It is never easy to say goodbye. It is especially difficult when the bonds are so close. Because the families welcome you into their homes as part of their family, it is inevitable to establish such attachments. As such, travel days are always filled with tears of sadness, joy, and love.
Some will put on a brave face and pose for final photos, while others simply cannot hold back their tears at the thought of separation.
As we move onward with our journey, tears will always follow in our wake.
March 16th, 2009: Suita, Osaka offers many sites and attractions for personal day. There is shopping, Sumo, Universal Studios Japan, whale sharks, Kyoto, and much more. It is impossible to go wrong with any choice but a relatively short trip to Kobe is akin to a trip to heaven for the taste buds.
Kobe beef is world famous, with rumors of cows being fed sake and receiving massages. After savoring every tender morsel of the Kobe beef, I am inclined to believe the rumors of well pampered cows.
“I died and went to Kobe.”
Personal days, a chance to kick back, relax, and eat Kobe beef!
