Each winter at Kennesaw State University (KSU) Community and Professional Education, something special happens — a group of students travels across the Pacific Ocean from Japan's Kanda University of International Studies (KUIS), arriving in Georgia ready to practice English, explore a new culture, and experience life at an American university.

Their destination is KSU's Intensive English Program (IEP), where language learning turns into something bigger. New friendships form. Cultural discoveries happen every day. The campus becomes a place where global connections come to life.

A Partnership That Crosses Continents

The partnership between KSU and KUIS began in 2019 when Kanda University reached out about creating a short-term English program during their students' winter break.

The first group arrived in February 2020 with 20 students and two faculty members. According to Nicholas R. Taggart, Director of the Intensive English Program at KSU, the collaboration quickly proved to be a meaningful opportunity for both institutions and their students.

First Stop: A Warm Georgia Welcome

Arrival day always brings excitement.

After a long international journey, students land in Atlanta where program leaders and staff from KSU's Community and Professional Education team greet them. A Big Owl Bus shuttle carries the group to their hotel near campus where they settle in and prepare for the days ahead.

For many participants, this moment marks their first visit to the United States. Everything feels new and full of possibility.

Learning English and Exploring Atlanta

While improving English skills is a key goal, the experience reaches far beyond the classroom.

Students explore some of Atlanta's most iconic attractions including World of Coca-Cola, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Georgia Aquarium, and High Museum of Art.

Free time often includes trips to local stores, movie nights, and karaoke outings. These experiences give students a chance to practice English in real-world situations while enjoying American culture.

New Conversations, New Friendships

One of the most meaningful parts of the program happens through conversation partners. KSU students volunteer to meet with the visiting group to talk, share stories, and spend time together.

Many of these meetups turn into group outings, shared meals, and friendships that continue long after the program ends.

Why Global Programs Like This Matter

Interactions between visiting students and the KSU community support the missions of both universities as participants develop intercultural awareness, grow in their appreciation of global perspectives, and build a sense of connection that reaches beyond national borders.

Conversations, shared activities, and cultural exchange create opportunities for everyone involved to grow as global citizens.

A Partnership That Keeps Growing

The relationship between KSU and KUIS continues to create meaningful opportunities for students each year.

Every new cohort brings curiosity, excitement, and fresh perspectives to campus. Each visit strengthens the connection between the two universities and adds another chapter to a growing international partnership.

Through experiences like this, the KSU IEP continues to bring the world to campus while helping students build the language skills, confidence, and global understanding needed to thrive in an interconnected world.