[Application Deadline: Friday, October 10] Call for English Discussion Partners with Exchange Students!

The International Student Center is seeking discussion partners for group sessions with exchange students as part of the short-term program JTW (Japan in Today’s World).

This is a great opportunity to build friendships through discussions with international students studying at Kyushu University for one semester to one year. These students come from a wide range of regions including Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia. We encourage you to apply!

Course Title: Religious Diversity in Japan
Instructor: Associate Professor Hiroko Kinoshita (International Student Center)
Class Time: Second Semester, Wednesdays, 3rd Period (13:00–14:30)
Discussion Dates: Wednesday, October 29; Wednesday, November 26; Wednesday, December 24
Number of available spots: 5–10 students per session
Application Period: Friday, September 26 – Friday, October 10, 2025
Selected participants will be contacted individually after October 14.

– No English proficiency or prior experience is required. Many of the exchange students are non-native speakers, and communication may involve gestures or other creative methods—please feel free to engage in your own way.

– Each session will feature a group discussion on a specific theme. No background knowledge or theoretical understanding is necessary. The focus is on sharing your own thoughts and perspectives. (Example themes: the afterlife, visiting shrines, etc.)

– You do not need to attend all sessions (though full participation is welcome).

Please apply using the form below. If the number of applicants exceeds the limit, participants will be selected by lottery.
https://forms.gle/6qrw1zwqxjFKtrQW6

For inquiries, please contact the course instructor.
International Student Center – Division of International Education
Associate Professor Hiroko Kinoshita (kinoshita.hiroko.174@m.kyushu-u.ac.jp)