From New Encounters to New Perspectives: Reflections on My Spring Training Programme in Singapore

Hello, my name is Karen Sugimoto, a second-year student at the School of Humanities, Nagoya University. From March 15 to 31, 2026, I participated in a Spring Training Programme 2026 in Singapore organized by Nagoya University.

This program aimed to develop the skills needed to thrive in an uncertain and globalized world. I decided to join the program because I wanted to think more seriously about my future career and broaden my perspective. The opportunity to visit global companies and interact with students from diverse backgrounds was exactly the challenge I was looking for. Through this program, I was able to grow in many ways, and I truly feel that participating in it was a highly worthwhile experience.

Academic and Professional Learning

One of the most meaningful aspects of the program was the academic experience. At the National University of Singapore (NUS), we participated in a two-day Design and Engineering workshop focusing on market entry strategies for Japanese products in Singapore. In this workshop, we worked in groups and were assigned roles as company representatives. I took on the role of a staff member of a Japanese cosmetics brand and discussed how to successfully introduce its products into the Singaporean market. 

Through group discussions and a final presentation, I realized how challenging it is to adapt products to different cultural and market environments. This experience helped me understand the importance of creativity, flexibility, and collaboration in solving real-world problems. 

In addition, we had many opportunities to listen to professionals working in Singapore. Hearing about their experiences and career paths gave me valuable insights and encouraged me to think more seriously about my own future. These experiences made me realize the importance of taking initiative and being open to new challenges. 

The Power of Communication and Cross-Cultural Exchange

This program provided countless opportunities to connect with students from NUS, the United States, and the Bunka Language School. Thanks to that, I was able to build meaningful connections with local university students, students from overseas, and even people I met in everyday situations.

For example, I spent a lot of time with NUS students and even became friends with a student from the United States. Although we only had a short time together, we went out together―visiting restaurants and going to a bar—which helped us quickly form a deep bond. Even now, we still keep in touch, and I consider this connection one of the most valuable parts of my experience.

Moreover, some of my most memorable experiences came from unexpected encounters. For example, during dinner at a pizza restaurant, I had a funny misunderstanding with a staff member when I asked about the restroom. I thought he was asking me to take a photo with him, which made both of us laugh. This small moment led to a longer conversation, and we eventually took a photo together and exchanged contact information. Before we left, he even offered us a free drink, and we shared a toast together. It was a unique and memorable experience that I had never had in Japan. I also met a local person who kindly helped me when I was looking for souvenirs, and this interaction later led to sharing a meal together.

Through these experiences, I realized that even a small interaction can grow into a meaningful connection when you are open and willing to engage with others.

What I Felt in Singapore

During my stay, I was deeply impressed by the kindness and openness of people in Singapore. Even when I simply asked for directions, people kindly guided me and often engaged in friendly conversation. I felt that Singapore’s multicultural environment creates a welcoming atmosphere where people from different backgrounds can easily connect with one another.

How This Experience Changed Me

At the beginning of the program, I was worried about whether I could get along with other participants from Nagoya University, as many of them are older than me. Besides, I sometimes felt hesitant to communicate in English or to start conversations with new people. However, as the program progressed, I gradually became more comfortable by taking small steps and actively engaging with others. Through this experience, I learned that stepping out of my comfort zone is essential for personal growth.

This program had a significant impact on me. I became more willing to challenge myself and gained confidence in using English. After returning to Japan, I started participating in intercultural exchange activities and working as a staff member for English presentation events. I also continue to stay in touch with the friends I met during the program, and these connections have become a valuable part of my life. Although I have not yet decided on a specific career path, this experience has motivated me to take on new challenges, such as applying for a long-term internship.

Finally, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the professors and staff members who supported us throughout the program. I am also deeply grateful to the students from Nagoya University who shared this experience, as well as to all the people I met in　Singapore. The encounters and connections I made during this program will always remain a meaningful and important part of my life.