We interviewed Ms. Ruriko Katayama, the mother of a student who participated in the Spring 2024 Italian Food Culture and Sustainability in Rome study tour.
She shared her thoughts on the sense of security unique to university-affiliated programs, the robust support system, and the growth she observed in her daughter upon her return.
Ms. Katayama has had a strong interest in overseas cultures since her own student days and has traveled to many different countries. What stood out was her balanced perspective—maintaining a respectful distance while understanding the immense value of international experience. When sending her daughter off, rather than giving specific instructions, she simply advised her to "listen carefully to the explanations and prepare thoroughly," leaving the rest to her daughter.
Peace of Mind Through University Affiliation and a Thorough Support System
How did you feel when your child first approached you about wanting to do a short-term study abroad program?
She found the SAF study tour on her university’s International Center website and asked if she could apply. I did feel a sense of trust because it was a program implemented by an organization affiliated with the university. Thea academic content also seemed very substantial, and I overall felt that I could send her off with peace of mind.
Were the pre-departure orientation and materials satisfactory to you?
When sending a child abroad, the biggest concern for a parent is safety. On that front, SAF’s system was highly reliable.
They gave very thorough explanations regarding insurance and how to handle potential troubles on the ground. Since everything—including accommodation and the schedule—seemed properly planned, I had almost no anxiety.
Having the risks and countermeasures clearly outlined in advance through the orientation and materials led to a great sense of security. As a result, by the time she departed, my expectations far outweighed my worries.
Valuing Experiences That Can Only Be Found in That Country
What kind of expectations did you have when sending her off?
When considering a short-term study abroad, the most important thing is whether there is "learning unique to that country" beyond just language study. This program focused on food which was my daughter's primary interest.
I found it very appealing that she could learn while engaging with social issues and real-world settings in Italy, a country with such a rich food culture. Language programs are good, but for a short duration, I believe it is more valuable to learn something specific to the location. I think it was an excellent choice for her.
Did you communicate with your daughter while she was in the program?
I wanted her to focus on the experience so I didn't contact her myself except to confirm her arrival and check on her health halfway through. And I did get a message from her once about things she bought as souvenirs.
It seemed that local staff supported her through minor troubles, so after she left, I felt comfortable leaving everything in their hands.
High-Value Experiences in the Modern Era and Growth Observed After Returning
Compared to your own student days, did you notice any major differences?
The biggest difference between then and now is the ease of international travel. In my time, booking hotels or applying for entry permits to national parks involved making the most of phones and faxes. Now, most arrangements are finalized online, and troubles can be solved with a smartphone.
On the other hand, I feel that the value of experiences involving human interaction on the ground has actually increased because of this. I found appeal in the fact that she could engage deeply with themes you can't touch during normal sightseeing, such as rehabilitation programs in prisons, organic farming, and food waste issues.
What was the most significant growth or change you noticed in your daughter after her return?
The growth in her maturity and confidence. Previously, her overseas experience was limited to family trips, but she managed this two-week stay while looking after her own health and she even planned her own side trips during her free time. That experience seems to have led to great self-confidence. I felt she became mentally independent through this short-term study abroad. I believe she definitely acquired the ability to think and act for herself.
Also, her perception of foreign countries seems to have changed. Beyond the worrying news one often sees, the experience of actually living there allowed her to feel firsthand that "abroad is not a scary place," which was a major takeaway.
Encouraging Parents to Support Their Children’s Future
If there were parents hesitating to send their child abroad, what would you say to them?
If your child is interested in a program, I would definitely recommend participating. Of course, you can have life-changing experiences on a regular overseas trip, but SAF programs allow you to take that extra step into the country, providing learning opportunities you simply cannot get through normal travel.
Those two weeks—spent contemplating and discussing Italian food initiatives, social contributions, and even the problems in Japanese society with her peers—became the catalyst for my daughter to think about her career choices after graduation. It wasn't just fun; there was solid learning involved. That is the kind of two weeks it was.
Finally, do you have a message for our readers?
Study abroad has a major impact not just on language skills, but on one's values and outlook on life. This experience was not only precious for my daughter but also a great experience for us as parents, making us feel truly glad we sent her. SAF's study tours, which encourage taking that first step within a secure environment, might just be the spark that expands your child's future.
