Arlington High School Student joined Engei High School (Taiken Nyugaku)

I attended Tokyo Engei High School for two weeks in June as a short-time exchange student. The school has three main departments: Food Science, Veterinary, and Horticulture.  Since I had taken culinary science for a couple of years at my high school in Arlington, I had asked them to place me in their Food Science department.  

All the teachers and students were extremely hospitable and kind to me the entire time.  I met Principal Namikawa and Vice Principal Onodera, as well as Dr. Yamaki on the first day.  Dr Yamaki, the head of Food Science, had come up with a schedule completely catered for me.  I participated in their food lab, listened in on their regular classes, and visited the other two departments.  They often asked me to speak about American culture, as well as more specific information on food in America, which I was happy to share. The students treated me as their friend, often giving me food and snacks. A few of them took me out for a nice ramen dinner on my last day there. 

My time at Engei High School was a very special experience, and I hope that others can enjoy experiencing a different culture like me.

By  Ivan (Arlington Tech)