Date: Friday, August 15th, 2014
Place: Tea Ceremony Room, Main Hall and various classrooms
Participants: Many students (some SGH students and some regular students) and 8 Harvard University students and their leader
Topic: “Cultivating Global Leaders for the Future”
In the afternoon 8 students from Harvard University, a distinguished university in the USA, came to Himeji Nishi High School. This was part of advance training for our school’s visit to Harvard University in March next year.
First, a “Welcome Party” was held by the Japanese Tea Ceremony Club at Himeji Nishi High School. The Harvard students really enjoyed themselves. The Tea Ceremony Club prepared extensively for the day by doing things such as ordering special water from Mt. Fuji, and giving an explanation about the tea they were serving all in English. The Harvard students were touched by their hospitality.
Next there was a “Welcome Presentation” by some SGH students. The presentation covered three main themes: “Himeji City”, “Himeji Castle” and “Himeji Nishi High School”. The students were nervous because it was their first time giving a presentation in English, but they were able to give a good presentation and show off the charms of Himeji City and our school. You could also see the influence of some of their training in Kyoto in their presentation style and powerpoint.
Next a panel discussion was held and the university students gave some presentations. All of the participants were very active in discussions and asked many questions. Even though there was no interpreter the students were able to have a good time just using the English they already knew. The students were also able to talk with the university students freely and some exchange emails.
Closing Speech (by Himeji Nishi students)
“It was a short, but very precious time for us. Today’s experience will help us grow and improve. I would like to thank the Harvard students form the bottom of my heart for taking time out of their busy schedules to come speak with us today.”
