PTJC New Generation Japan-Canada Dialogue 7: Lucas Becker – MacEwan University/University of Alberta

Lucas Becker, a Ritsumeikan Summer Japanese Program (RSJP) participant in 2016 and 2019 participant of Kakehashi program, reflects on his experience with both programs, explaining how they helped him to learn Japanese and even changed his career path.

22 November 2021

Prince Takamado Japan Centre for Teaching and Research, University of Alberta, is currently working on promoting and celebrating the accomplishments of our academic programs, such as Ritsumeikan Summer Japanese Program (RSJP) and Kakehashi program, which over the years have brought hundreds of Canadian young people to Japan.

Lucas Becker, a RSJP participant in 2016 from the MacEwan University/UofA, who also took part in Kakehashi program in 2019, shares his warm memories of the time spent in Japan. He underlines that studying abroad leaves you with unforgettable memories and it even can be a life-changing experience

“Honestly, both of these programs changed the entire course of my life. I felt like there is so many interesting people, and some of them are my dearest friends, that I met on these trips. I got tons of experience in Japan that really helped me in my career. It gave me the opportunity to just learn more about Japan and got me to start steering my career path to where I keep having those close ties with Japan in Canada. […] It was just so worth it and a phenomenal experience all in all.”

Ritsumeikan Summer Japanese Program is a summer study abroad program in Japan, coordinated by the Prince Takamado Japan Centre and the Department of East Asian Studies, University of Alberta, Canada. It is designed for post-secondary or graduate students with minimal knowledge of the Japanese language, providing a comprehensive introduction to Japanese language and culture.

Kakehashi Project program, established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, is a youth exchange program promoting understanding of Japan in North America regarding Japanese politics, economy, society, culture, history, and foreign policy. The Japanese word "kakehashi" means "bridge," which symbolizes the hope that participants will form lasting relationships with Japan and its people, and serve as bridges between nations and cultures. Participants who travel to Japan are encouraged to share their experiences and discoveries with their networks at home, and contribute to greater appreciation of Japanese culture worldwide.