– Expressing Their Determination Before Taking On Challenges Across Canada –

On Saturday, July 12, students from Class 1-3 of the IM (Immersion) Course at Ritsumeikan Uji Senior High School held a “Declaration Ceremony.” Ahead of their long-term study abroad program across various regions of Canada beginning in late August, each student gave a heartfelt speech expressing their personal goals and appreciation to those who have supported them.

With many parents in attendance, the atmosphere was both warm and emotionally charged. Students sincerely articulated their aspirations, addressing questions such as, “How do I want to grow through this experience abroad?” and “What efforts will I make to achieve that?” Their reflections and honesty left a strong impression on everyone present.

Some students were moved to tears as they spoke, and their emotional, genuine messages deeply resonated with parents and teachers alike. For the students, this hour served as a powerful and symbolic moment of recommitment before embarking on their new lives in a foreign country.

Studying Abroad in Canada: Each IM Course Student Walks Their Own Path

The IM (Immersion) Course is designed to help students develop global perspectives and real-world English communication skills by living and learning in an English-speaking environment.

In this year’s study abroad program, students from Class 1-3 will spend approximately one year at different high schools throughout Canada. While living with host families, they will attend regular classes alongside Canadian peers, improving their English in daily life while also cultivating intercultural understanding, independence, and initiative.

One of the unique features of the IM Course is that each student experiences a different school, environment, and local community. They are expected to grow through these individual experiences, building knowledge from everyday life in their own way, in their own place.

This Declaration Ceremony marked the moment they stood at that starting line. With the courage to step into the world and the determination to shape their own futures, these students are now taking their first steps toward an exciting new journey.