#Japan #Study Abroad #Shibuya #EF Education First #High School Newspaper

Unveiling the Realities of Studying Abroad and College Life

In an enlightening collaboration between the High School Newspaper and EF Education First (EF), the complexities of studying abroad and navigating college life were explored in depth. On September 3, 2025, an event took place at EF Tokyo School in Shibuya, where about 20 student journalists engaged alongside 12 alumni who had previously studied abroad through EF. This gathering provided a unique platform for high school students to connect with their peers and gain insights into global perspectives shaping their futures.

Aiming for Global Perspectives

The workshops aimed to determine the current international viewpoints of high school students. Topics discussed included significant global issues such as "Russia's invasion of Ukraine," "overtourism," "pop culture," and "Trump's tariff policies." The engagement demonstrated that students are not merely passive consumers of information; rather, they actively seek to understand global affairs. This revelation may serve as a crucial insight for refining international education strategies.

Reflecting on Study Abroad Experiences

During the discussions, alumni shared their personal study abroad experiences, providing high school journalists with a valuable opportunity to reflect on their journeys and career choices. Many students expressed feelings of nostalgia, wondering if they had truly become the university students they had always aspired to be. Such reflections serve as a novel metric for evaluating the educational impact of study abroad programs.

Proposing Innovative Information Dissemination

The high schoolers also suggested creative article ideas, one of which included a personality quiz that diagnosed different types of study abroad candidates. This approach differs significantly from traditional promotional methods, contributing a playful yet informative angle to student engagement. The innovative thinking showcased during this event can provide educational institutions with new insights for their public relations strategies.

Event Overview

Participant Composition

• - High School Newspaper Reporters: Approximately 20
• - Alumni of EF Study Abroad: 12
• - Format: Workshop divided into 5 groups

Program Details

1. Icebreaking Session (Mutual Q&A introductions)
2. Survey and report on "International Topics High School Students Encounter"
3. Interview session led by student journalists featuring study abroad alumni
4. Proposal and presentation of article concepts geared toward high school students regarding study abroad

Future Plans

On September 14th, alumni who studied abroad this summer will reconvene at EF Tokyo School to hold a report and networking session. They will share their personal growth since returning from abroad, which will also be highlighted on EF's Instagram and other social media platforms.

Building on insights gained from this event, EF aims to enhance its methods of disseminating study abroad information. By continually creating opportunities for connections between high school students and alumni, EF strives to contribute to the development of the next generation of global citizens.

About High School Newspaper

Founded in 1993 and operated by School Partners Co., Ltd, High School Newspaper delivers news pertinent to high school life and career choices. Widely read in classrooms across the country, its online counterpart attracts approximately 1 million visitors monthly, reaching students, parents, and educators alike.

About EF Education First

Founded in Sweden in 1965, EF Education First champions the motto "Education First." As one of the largest private educational institutions globally, EF connects people across borders through language learning and cultural exchanges. Today, EF operates in over 100 countries, offering comprehensive education solutions including study abroad programs, language training, and culturally enriching experiences. With 50 language schools in 20 countries, EF is not just a study abroad agency; it is an integrated educational organization committed to fostering international understanding through high-quality educational innovation in over 50 years of experience.

Visit EF's official YouTube channel to witness the vibrant experiences that studying abroad offers firsthand, helping potential students grasp the invaluable lessons and cultural exchanges that await them.

Corporate Website: EF Japan