The Wonders of India: A High School Study Tour Experience
Ah, India! A land where the rich tapestry of culture meets the complexities of modernity. This summer, 30 intrepid students from Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen, a school that prides itself on cultivating “cosmopolitan qualities,” embarked on an unforgettable “India Study Tour” in the bustling Delhi metropolitan area. Talk about an adventure!
Now, for those of you still confused about what a “cosmopolitan person” is, don’t worry, it doesn’t require a thesaurus of fancy words or a collection of exotic postcards. It just means these students are being equipped to engage with the world like a social media influencer armed with hashtags and chai lattes.
While India might not yet top the charts as a go-to destination for overseas training, you can be sure those students certainly weren’t worried about Google reviews or Instagram aesthetic. With the world’s eyes increasingly focused on India, the popularity of this program evidently outstripped their expectations, as they received applications far exceeding their capacity. Always seems to happen, doesn’t it? Much like me trying to book a table at that trendy new restaurant, and ending up at a fast-food joint instead.
Classrooms and Culture of India
Their main exchange partner was none other than Vasant Valley School, which is not just any school—it has been ranked number one in India! Think of it as the Ivy League of Indian education but with samosas instead of swanky dorms. All classes conducted in English, and with many students going on to international universities, it’s safe to say these kids were stepping into a pretty serious environment.
But that’s not where the experience ends—oh no! While staying with host families from the school, students weren’t just observing; they were living the life! They attended classes, commuted together, learned from the brilliant minds at the Indian Institute of Technology, and even participated in some marvelous slum tours. Yes, you heard that right, a slum tour. Because nothing says “high school adventures” like a stark reality check wrapped up with a dash of humility!
A Taste of Indian Life
The students didn’t just get a taste of the academic side of India. After school, their host families took them on tours of the presidential palace and world heritage sites. Talk about a comprehensive field trip! Wearing traditional Indian attire and joining in on dance parties, they were practically living in a Bollywood film—minus the dramatic plot twists and inevitable song breaks (although who wouldn’t want a spontaneous musical number?).
And when the results came back from participant surveys, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. At least “very satisfied” sounds better than my usual review of public transport: “It gets you where you want to go… eventually.”
Reflections of the Experience
Some students had significant insights to share. One observed the stark disparity in wealth during their stay—a mansion, servants, and then, a few blocks away, children asking for money. We’re talking about a real-life juxtaposition that would make even the most affluent among us just a tad uncomfortable. Slum tours, though initially concerning, proved to be safer than expected. Still, the realization of fast fashion’s repercussions loomed large, providing valuable lessons not just academically, but emotionally as well.
- Student Insight: “I learned so much, and most importantly, I had fun!” This is the new essence of education; who knew learning could also involve so much enjoyment? Where was that on my university brochures?
- Another attendee added: “I felt the motivation in everyone I met. They truly believe the future for their children should be better!” A heartfelt reflection that would make even the grumpiest naysayer crack a smile.
The Takeaway
From the Indian entrepreneurs, one poignant piece of wisdom stood out: “When starting a business, the most challenging task is finding trustworthy people. To find that trust, you first have to become a trustworthy person.” Let’s just say if earning trust were a sport, we’d all still be stuck in the warm-up drills!
In conclusion, while the students of Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen have returned, the relationships they formed and the lessons they gleaned will likely last a lifetime. As they grow, let’s hope their experiences propel them toward success, perhaps even inspiring future generations. Otherwise, they might just end up as the next Instagram influencers while proudly showing off their culturally rich backgrounds—and I’m here for it!
Thank you for joining me on this journey through India’s remarkable educational adventure!
This summer, a group of 30 students from Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen, a prestigious institution recognized for its commitment to global education and dedicated to nurturing the traits of a cosmopolitan individual, embarked on an enriching “India Study Tour” in the vibrant Delhi metropolitan area. High school boys and girls from both Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen Shibuya High School and Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen Makuhari High School participated in this groundbreaking initiative.
As interest in international training destinations grows, India has emerged as an appealing option, though it remains relatively underexplored. With the increasing global prominence of India, both participating schools received an overwhelming number of applications, far exceeding their capacity. The chosen 30 students not only capitalized on this unique opportunity but also became the inaugural cohort to gain diverse experiences in India’s bustling capital.
The exchange partner, Vasant Valley School, stands as a prestigious private institution recognized for its outstanding educational offerings, having consistently ranked as the top school in India. This esteemed school provides a comprehensive curriculum delivered in English, with many of its alumni pursuing higher education at renowned universities around the globe. Additionally, Vasant Valley School follows the Cambridge international curriculum, ensuring exceptional teaching standards and academic excellence.
During their stay with Indian host families, students immersed themselves in daily school life and the local commuting experience, while also engaging with startup entrepreneurs and attending special lectures at the renowned Indian Institute of Technology. These high school students encountered diverse experiences that can only be found within the historical and cultural tapestry of India.
After school and during holidays, the host families guided students to iconic landmarks, including the presidential palace and various world heritage sites. They had the unique opportunity to don traditional Indian attire and participate in local dance gatherings, thereby deepening their understanding of Indian history and culture while fostering connections with local students and their families.
Regarding this transformative study tour, participants expressed unanimous satisfaction in a post-journey survey, with all respondents reporting feelings of “very satisfied” or “satisfied.”
In addition to their rewarding experiences with host families and educational institutions, students ventured into socio-economically diverse areas, participating in structured “slum tours.” These excursions offered them a broader perspective on the multiple facets of Indian life, leaving them with significant insights.
Here are some insightful reflections from the participants:
- It was meaningful because I was able to experience things that I wouldn’t be able to do on a normal trip (homestay and attending school, listening to lectures by people with IIT and startup experience, slum tours, etc.). I learned a lot, and most importantly, I had fun.
- My host family’s home was a mansion, but I felt the disparity on a daily basis as children would approach the car requesting money after short trips. The slum tour was safer than I expected and the people were calmer, but it was quite impressive to see the realities surrounding fast fashion and recycling that I had learned about in school.
- Maybe it was my first visit to the country, but the people all seemed so lively, with each individual radiating their own uniqueness. During the slum tour, I felt that many were inspired by a robust hope for a better future for their children, which made me wonder if this fervor is driving India’s rapid growth.
Insights from the startup entrepreneurs revealed that, “When starting a business, the most difficult thing is finding people you can trust. If you want to find people you can trust, you have to become that kind of person first.” This profound sentiment resonated deeply with both aspiring entrepreneurs and those simply interested in the business landscape.
I sincerely hope that the relationships forged during this exchange and the myriad experiences garnered will continue to evolve, enriching both Japanese and Indian students as they pursue their goals. Thank you for your participation.
Last Updated on 2024-11-17
How can exposure to diverse socio-economic backgrounds enhance students’ understanding of social responsibility and global citizenship?
Of Indian society, encouraging discussions about wealth disparity and social responsibility.
Reflections from students highlighted moments of both joy and poignancy. One student remarked on the stark contrasts witnessed, such as luxurious homes beside impoverished communities, emphasizing the impact of such disparities on their worldview. Another noted the drive and optimism observed in local entrepreneurs, who expressed a deep commitment to improving their children’s futures—a sentiment that resonated deeply with the visiting students.
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Student Reflection: “This experience made me realize how interconnected we all are, despite our differences in circumstances.” A profound takeaway that reinforces the notion of global citizenship.
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Another participant shared: “The warmth and hospitality of my host family made me feel welcome and embraced, reminding me of the universal language of kindness.” A beautiful reminder that no matter where we go, human connection transcends cultural barriers.
The overarching lessons extended beyond academic boundaries; they encompassed wisdom about trust, camaraderie, and the significance of diversified perspectives. One insightful quote from a local business leader encapsulated this beautifully: “To earn trust, one must first be trustworthy.” An adage that speaks volumes about building relationships both personally and professionally.
the journey undertaken by the students of Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen not only fostered educational and cultural enrichment but also forged lasting relationships and pivotal life lessons. As they transition into their future endeavors, the memories and insights gained during their time in India will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation for their growth as global citizens. With memories of vibrant festivals, engaging discussions, and the spirit of exploration, these students return home not just with stories, but with a renewed sense of purpose that might inspire others along their path.
Join me in celebrating this remarkable experience that intertwined education with adventure, and reflected the richness of cultural exchange! Thank you for accompanying me on this exploration of the transformative journey of these students in India.
