GLA Career Program: "ANA Experience Program 2024" Successfully Held

GLA Career Program: "ANA Experience Program 2024" Successfully Held

From October 27 to November 23, 2024, GLA collaborated with ANA Kansai Airport Co., Ltd. to organize the "ANA Experience Program 2024", an extracurricular career program. This four-day program, structured into pre-learning, on-site training, and final presentation, provided students with a valuable opportunity to explore airport operations, a core aspect of the aviation industry. Participants gained insight into diverse roles that support air transportation, explored career paths, and reflected on their passions by engaging with professionals.

A Platform for Diverse Students to Learn from Each Other

This year’s program had nine participants, a smaller group compared to previous years, with more than half being international students in their third or fourth year. Some participants were not fully confident in their Japanese proficiency, but they took the initiative to practice pronunciation and expressions while receiving support from their peers. The group, with diverse backgrounds, worked together effectively, dividing roles and collaborating to develop practical communication skills.

Program Overview

Pre-Learning (October 27):

Participants attended a session led by an ANA employee, where they learned about ANA Group’s guiding principles, brand identity, airport operations fundamentals, and essential business etiquette. Hearing real-world insights from an industry professional deepened their understanding of the aviation sector and the professional mindset required in the field.

On-Site Training (November 9, 10):

Students received lectures on ground handling, passenger services, and operations management, the core functions of airport work, before observing these roles firsthand. They participated in announcement simulations and check-in procedures, gaining a real sense of the responsibilities and ingenuity involved in behind-the-scenes airport operations. Additionally, a roundtable discussion with ANA employees offered firsthand accounts of the rewards and challenges of working in the aviation industry.

Final Presentation (November 23):

On the final day, participants gave presentations before ANA Kansai Airport Co., Ltd. employees, addressing a shared theme as well as individual group topics. By organizing their experiences from the program and sharing their insights and proposals, they further deepened their understanding of airport operations and career possibilities.

Participant Feedback

Participants shared positive feedback, including:

"The biggest highlight was gaining insights into the behind-the-scenes operations of airports, something we don’t usually get to see."

"Seeing professionals at work allowed me to feel their sense of responsibility and passion."

"This program reignited my enthusiasm for the aviation industry and helped me reflect on my career plans."

"I was worried about making time for the program due to my busy schedule, but I’m truly glad I participated."

These responses highlight how the program provided a meaningful and enriching experience for the students.

GLA Supports Students’ Career Development!

This program is open to students whose Japanese proficiency meets a certain standard, including those whose first language is not Japanese. It is scheduled to be held again in 2025. Whether you are interested in the aviation industry, looking for an opportunity to explore your career path, or aiming to improve your practical communication skills in Japanese, we encourage you to join us!

Sincerely,