This was a very meaningful experience as I reflect on my future career path.

現地の人との交流について印象に残ったことは？
How was your experience interacting with local people? 

During this program, everyone I met was kind and friendly, which made me feel comfortable even in an unfamiliar environment. Through these interactions, I had the opportunity to hear valuable stories about why some of the local PhD students decided to pursue their doctorates and how they came to study at the University of Nebraska. These conversations encouraged me to think deeply about my own future career path.
In an environment where only English was spoken, I often had to organize my thoughts quickly and express them clearly within a limited time. Although it was sometimes challenging, I felt a great sense of achievement and joy when my ideas were successfully conveyed through words and gestures.
In addition, when I encountered Japanese people on campus, even those I met for the first time, we naturally started conversations. I found such exchanges to be one of the unique and rewarding aspects of participating in an overseas program like this.

プログラム期間中の活動で特に印象に残ったこと
Please write about what left a strong impression on you during the program period. 

One of the most memorable experiences during the program was participating in a seminar at the local research laboratory, where I gave a presentation about my own research in English. Although I had presented in English before, this was my first time delivering a research-focused talk and answering all questions in English, which was a major challenge.
During the Q&A session, I could easily think of responses in Japanese, but I sometimes struggled to convert them into English smoothly. I tried to explain using simple expressions, but often felt frustrated when I couldn’t communicate exactly what I wanted to say. Through this experience, I became acutely aware of my limited English proficiency and recognized it as an area for improvement.
At the same time, being able to grasp the meaning of questions by identifying key words and nuances gave me confidence in my listening skills. This experience not only improved my language abilities but also helped me develop stronger communication skills that I can build on in the future.

プログラム中の経験で将来のキャリアのために役立つと思うこと
What was a useful experience for your future career among your experiences during the program?

During the program, I had meaningful conversations with PhD students in the local laboratory about what motivated them to pursue doctoral studies and how they expanded their professional networks. These discussions prompted me to reflect on my own plans for graduate study and career development.
Even if studying abroad may not always be possible, I realized that participating in international conferences can be extremely valuable for gaining new perspectives and building connections. I would like to actively seek such opportunities in the future.
Moreover, I learned that when it comes to studying or conducting research overseas, the most important thing is to make choices I will not regret.
Since few people around me spoke Japanese, I was often placed in situations where I had to use English. In such an environment, my listening and speaking skills naturally improved, and I truly felt that my language abilities had advanced through daily communication.

次年度以降、同じプログラムに参加する学生に伝えたいこと
Comments for students who will participate in the same program next year.

Although this program takes place in a lesser-known area of the United States, I found it to be a very comfortable and safe environment with many sunny days. The local people are kind and friendly, so you can enjoy your interactions without worry.
Being in an environment where Japanese is not spoken provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen your communication and language skills. Talking directly with local people allows you to gain firsthand insights into research abroad, which can broaden your career perspectives.
For students interested in studying or conducting research overseas, this program will be an especially valuable experience. It not only helps improve your English but also expands your outlook on future academic and career paths. However, you should be aware that the cost of living is higher than in Japan.

渡航前・渡航後のCOILを含め、プログラム全体を通しての感想
Feedback on the program, including COILs before and after trips to the US/Japan.

Through the exchange with the University of Nebraska, I was able to assess how well my English skills worked in real situations and reconsider which skills I should focus on developing further.
Although the period I spent at the university was short, the interactions with local people and the opportunity to observe and experience experimental techniques in the laboratory allowed me to gain much more than technical knowledge. I was also able to feel firsthand the geographical and cultural differences between Japan and the U.S., as well as the warmth of the people.
Throughout the entire program—including the COIL sessions before and after the trip—I experienced not only improvement in my English ability, but also deep learning in intercultural understanding and career development. I believe this program was an invaluable experience that will greatly influence my future path.