Bringing Together New and International Students Through Fun and Friendship
On May 14, 2025, the Faculty of Agriculture hosted its annual Photo Rally, a much-anticipated event that brought together 44 new students and 33 international students. Held as part of the “Gathering of New Students and International Students 2025”, the event aims to promote cultural exchange, build global awareness, and strengthen motivation for language and international study.
Since its launch in 2021, the Photo Rally has been a platform to deepen mutual understanding between Japanese and international students. The event fosters an international outlook among students and encourages friendships beyond borders.
A Day of Exchange and Exploration
The event was opened by Prof. Peter Lutes, Chair of the International Exchange Committee, and Dean Professor Ogawa, followed by a welcoming presentation from a Japanese student sharing her personal study abroad experience. The day’s activities were coordinated by Lecturer Khalife of the International Exchange Committee.
Students were then divided into mixed groups for an icebreaker session, where they introduced themselves and began to build connections. These groups later competed in a Photo Rally that spanned various checkpoints across the Faculty of Agriculture campus, starting from Room BW106.
One of the highlights was visiting the Dean’s Office, where groups took commemorative photos with Dean Ogawa. At the final checkpoint in the Student-Faculty Exchange Lounge, participants tackled fun challenges like the “Guess the English Words” quiz and crossword puzzles. Groups who completed all missions were rewarded with prizes, and wrapped up the Photo Rally with a group photo!
Cross-Cultural Communication in Action
For many new students, this event was a refreshing change from their usual classroom activities. Using English to communicate and collaborate with international students, they discovered new ways of learning—whether through solving puzzles, navigating campus checkpoints, or chatting over snacks after the event.
The friendly atmosphere encouraged free and open conversation, and many students stayed after the prize ceremony to talk with their new friends.
Positive Feedback and Lasting Impact
According to feedback collected through a post-event survey, participants praised the event for its fun and interactive format. Many commented on the joy of speaking English, making new friends, and feeling more connected to the international community.
Most importantly, students reported increased motivation to study foreign languages and a stronger interest in studying abroad in the future.
Special Thanks
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the professors, staff members, and international students who made this event a success. Your support and participation are what make the Faculty of Agriculture’s international programs truly special.
Stay tuned for more upcoming events aimed at building global connections right here at Kagawa University!
© 2023 Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University. All rights reserved.
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