New Project Launches to Tackle Real Study Abroad Challenges for Young People in the Age of Social Media
In an era dominated by social media, where curated experiences often overshadow genuine challenges, a new partnership has been forged between EF Education First Japan and the community organization, Minna no Ryugaku bu (Everyone's Study Abroad Department) to help tackle the real issues faced by young students venturing abroad.
With over 400 current students managing this study abroad media community, the collaboration aims to offer realistic insights into studying abroad, moving beyond the perfect images frequently seen on social platforms. Young people today are often confronted with an overwhelming amount of idealized experiences that create a disconnect between what they anticipate and the reality they face. Concerns regarding language proficiency, costs, safety, and cultural differences can amplify feelings of anxiety about studying in a foreign country. From December 8 onwards, this partnership aims to enrich the conversation around studying abroad by sharing authentic experiences that encompass not only success stories but also the hurdles that students may encounter.
In the inaugural project, EF and Minna no Ryugaku bu organized a panel discussion featuring ten study abroad participants who have studied in countries such as the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Participants included both students at EF’s Tokyo school and graduates who shared their diverse anecdotes, focusing on topics often overlooked on social media—language barriers, cultural differences, feelings of loneliness, and everyday challenges.
The discussions revealed key insights, with everyone acknowledging that overcoming difficulties is an integral part of learning. As discussions illuminated the discrepancies in kindness between Japan and abroad, the conversation shifted to highlight the essence of language acquisition and adaptation in new cultural environments. This genuine dialogue is now available for viewing on YouTube, allowing others to gain valuable insights from their journeys. Watch the Discussion Here.
Looking ahead, the collaboration will facilitate regular seminars and preparatory workshops, while also enhancing the digital presence of Minna no Ryugaku bu. The initiative will support a bi-directional consultation system with EF advisors and active overseas students to provide practical resources, including preparatory guides, testimonial articles, and video content that will soon be expanded.
Additionally, monthly "Study Abroad Fairs" will be organized across the country, specifically targeting those considering studying abroad in the 2026 academic year. Detailed schedules and event information for the upcoming Winter Study Abroad Fair can be found here.
Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Switzerland, EF Education First is a premier international education organization dedicated to opening the world through education. With a presence in over 114 countries and approximately 50,000 employees, including half being teachers, EF operates more than 50 language schools worldwide, ensuring high-quality educational experiences.
In Japan, EF has provided study abroad support since 1973 across eight locations: Sapporo, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Fukuoka. The organization facilitates a comprehensive support system, from counseling and preparation to local stay and post-return career development. EF's innovative learning methods, developed in conjunction with Cambridge University, ensure scientifically-backed language acquisition, enabling students to experience life-changing study abroad opportunities.
For more information, visit EF Japan's official website and YouTube channel.
Minna no Ryugaku bu is an organization focused on correcting the disparity in information and opportunities regarding overseas education for high school and university students aspiring to study abroad. Their mission is to create avenues for challenges and broaden future options through various initiatives. Online, they operate a portal featuring comprehensive information on over 380 international universities and more than 100 testimonials.
They also facilitate valuable community events and workshops across the nation, ensuring all students can access vital information and support as they navigate their study abroad journeys.
With over 400 current students managing this study abroad media community, the collaboration aims to offer realistic insights into studying abroad, moving beyond the perfect images frequently seen on social platforms. Young people today are often confronted with an overwhelming amount of idealized experiences that create a disconnect between what they anticipate and the reality they face. Concerns regarding language proficiency, costs, safety, and cultural differences can amplify feelings of anxiety about studying in a foreign country. From December 8 onwards, this partnership aims to enrich the conversation around studying abroad by sharing authentic experiences that encompass not only success stories but also the hurdles that students may encounter.
In the inaugural project, EF and Minna no Ryugaku bu organized a panel discussion featuring ten study abroad participants who have studied in countries such as the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Participants included both students at EF’s Tokyo school and graduates who shared their diverse anecdotes, focusing on topics often overlooked on social media—language barriers, cultural differences, feelings of loneliness, and everyday challenges.
The discussions revealed key insights, with everyone acknowledging that overcoming difficulties is an integral part of learning. As discussions illuminated the discrepancies in kindness between Japan and abroad, the conversation shifted to highlight the essence of language acquisition and adaptation in new cultural environments. This genuine dialogue is now available for viewing on YouTube, allowing others to gain valuable insights from their journeys. Watch the Discussion Here.
Looking ahead, the collaboration will facilitate regular seminars and preparatory workshops, while also enhancing the digital presence of Minna no Ryugaku bu. The initiative will support a bi-directional consultation system with EF advisors and active overseas students to provide practical resources, including preparatory guides, testimonial articles, and video content that will soon be expanded.
Additionally, monthly "Study Abroad Fairs" will be organized across the country, specifically targeting those considering studying abroad in the 2026 academic year. Detailed schedules and event information for the upcoming Winter Study Abroad Fair can be found here.
About EF Education First
Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Switzerland, EF Education First is a premier international education organization dedicated to opening the world through education. With a presence in over 114 countries and approximately 50,000 employees, including half being teachers, EF operates more than 50 language schools worldwide, ensuring high-quality educational experiences.
In Japan, EF has provided study abroad support since 1973 across eight locations: Sapporo, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Fukuoka. The organization facilitates a comprehensive support system, from counseling and preparation to local stay and post-return career development. EF's innovative learning methods, developed in conjunction with Cambridge University, ensure scientifically-backed language acquisition, enabling students to experience life-changing study abroad opportunities.
For more information, visit EF Japan's official website and YouTube channel.
About Minna no Ryugaku bu
Minna no Ryugaku bu is an organization focused on correcting the disparity in information and opportunities regarding overseas education for high school and university students aspiring to study abroad. Their mission is to create avenues for challenges and broaden future options through various initiatives. Online, they operate a portal featuring comprehensive information on over 380 international universities and more than 100 testimonials.
They also facilitate valuable community events and workshops across the nation, ensuring all students can access vital information and support as they navigate their study abroad journeys.
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