UMaine prepares to host 21st year of Hirosaki virtual exchange program

The Intensive English Institute (IEI) at the University of Maine is preparing to host the 21st year of the Hirosaki program. Professor Tokuji Noro, faculty in the English Department of Hirosaki University in Hirosaki, Japan, and 20 college students will participate in the two-week virtual program Feb. 28–March 10. The students will work to improve their English reading, writing and conversation skills, learn more about Maine, and meet with host families and students from our community. 

“UMaine is proud to be continuing a decades-long partnership with Hirosaki University through this short-term English language program and our bilateral exchange program,” said Orlina Boteva, director of the Office of International Programs. “Through the process of learning a new language, students gain not only linguistic skills, but also intercultural communication skills and develop global competencies, which are critical for education in the 21st century.” 

Cheryl Robertson, who will teach the short-term program, said she is excited to be working with the Hirosaki students for a third year. “We hope the students will be able to travel to the UMaine campus in 2023, when we offer the program again next year,” she said.

Hirosaki University is located in Aomori province of Japan. The partnership was established during a Maine governor’s mission to Japan in 2000.