Hi! I’m Qi Yueyang, from School of Psychology in Nanjing Normal University. Participating in the AEL program at Tohoku University has been an incredibly rewarding experience, one that has broadened my academic horizons and provided me with valuable personal growth. Throughout this journey, I gained new knowledge in both education and psychology, improved my communication skills, and developed a deeper understanding of cultural diversity.

One of the most significant takeaways from this program was the insight I gained from the education course. The education course introduced us to the concept of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which expanded my understanding of global issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and environmental challenges. It was enlightening to see how education can play a vital role in addressing these concerns, especially in bridging the gap between different areas. This broadened my perspective on the transformative power of education in creating a more sustainable and equitable world.

In the psychology course, I was fascinated by the intersection of cognitive neuroscience, life sciences, and engineering. Professor Kozima’s presentation of “Keepon,” a robot designed to assist children with autism, left a strong impression on me. It demonstrated how psychological research can have a tangible and positive impact when integrated with innovative technology. Additionally, I learned about the growing practice of remote counseling in Korea and Japan. The examples provided by professors showed the effectiveness of this approach and encouraged me to reflect on how psychology can adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

Another significant takeaway from the program was the opportunity to engage with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Through discussions and group activities, I gained deeper insights into East Asian societies. I learned that Japan struggles with a shortage of teaching resources, while social pressures and intense academic competition are common challenges across many East Asian countries. This information was entirely new to me and, at times, even contradicted what I had previously read in news reports. Conversations with peers from the Philippines and Guatemala further highlighted the varied educational experiences across regions, deepening my awareness of both the importance and the complexities of achieving educational equity.

Furthermore, participating in this program greatly improved my English communication skills. The immersive environment encouraged me to express my thoughts more confidently in discussions and group activities. The interactive teaching style used by Tohoku University professors made learning engaging and encouraged me to think more critically and creatively.

Overall, this experience has had a profound impact on me. I am especially grateful to my college for organizing this opportunity, which allowed me to explore new ideas and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The knowledge and experiences I gained during the AEL program will undoubtedly benefit me in my future studies and personal growth. This unforgettable journey has inspired me to continue exploring the world with curiosity and an open mind.