Japan

WHO:

LaDonna Aiken, broadcast specialist in the Department of Communication, and students in her “Multimedia Production” course, which she calls “Postcards from Japan.”

WHY:

“This course has been designed to foster culturally sensitive travel writing that makes use of multimedia to capture the sights and sounds of a rich, culturally immersive experience. Students go beyond capturing Insta-perfect moments in favor of travel story packages that respect and explore the culture and traditions of Japan and how those are manifest both in its modern cities and in more rural areas.” – Dr. Aiken

LESSONS THEY TOOK BACK HOME:

“As a comms major, it was beneficial for me to put myself in another country where I didn’t know their native language. It forced me to figure out how to navigate pretty much everything there, from transportation to culture shock. I was fortunate enough to make friends there who are now planning on visiting me here in Texas, and it’s things like that that make me want to challenge myself. I don’t want to miss out anymore!” – Estefania Garcia (’24 BA, Communication)

“I learned to believe in myself more through this trip. I was anxious at first that I would do something wrong, or I wouldn’t be able to adapt, but I ended up thriving on this trip in ways I never thought I could. I also learned to live in the present more and to take opportunities as I see them.” – Jannon Vu, senior, organizational communication and philanthropy major