JICUF held its third annual ICU Student Weekend in New York from Friday, January 10th to Sunday, January 12th. This event invites ICU students studying at universities in the US and Canada through exchange programs to New York. This year, among the 59 students studying in North America, 34 students participated from near and far, including such locations as Vermont, New Jersey, California, Ohio and Vancouver! JICUF covered the cost of accommodation, two meals, and museum admission fees; each student paid for their travel expenses.

Most students arrived in New York on Thursday the 9th, and 26 attended a social gathering held at the JICUF office the following Friday afternoon. Chair of the JICUF Board David Janes and trustees Fusae Nara and Danny Ha also joined the gathering, and we held a group discussion on the benefits of studying abroad, the challenges they faced, and their outlook for the future. In the evening, ICU alumni were invited to a New Year’s party at Sarabeth’s restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. Approximately 40 alumni from a wide range of age groups participated, making it a lively celebration with about 80 people in attendance.

On Saturday the 11th, the students visited the Museum of the City of New York with ICU Alumni Association New York Chapter representative Izumi Osawa (class of 2004) and JICUF staff. They spent two hours freely browsing the exhibits, then enjoyed lunch at a nearby Mexican restaurant. The students were free to explore the city on their own afterward, each heading out in the wintery weather.

Photo by Izumi Osawa

In a survey conducted after the program, we received encouraging feedback, such as “I was able to talk with alumni about my future career and life”, “Not only did I expand my network, but I also received a lot of interesting advice”, “I was able to interact with other international students”, “I enjoyed sightseeing in New York” and “It was a very meaningful and valuable trip”. They also gave some valuable advice to those planning to study abroad in the United States or Canada this fall: “It’s definitely a worthwhile activity! Please do join the Student Weekend!” “It’s so cold in New York, so don’t forget to bring gloves and a scarf.”

We had a wonderful time meeting energetic ICU students as well as alumni and friends. Thank you to all who participated!