After realizing the eminent value of international experience during his study abroad in Toronto, Yushi made it his mission to empower others to pursue their dreams abroad. He chose to study English Communication because he wanted to be able to communicate with a wider range of people.
Today, he puts his communication skills into practice working at Meiji Internships, where he is in charge of host company relations, sales, and student affairs.
What is your favorite travel memory?
When I was an exchange student in Canada, I went to Montreal to visit a friend of mine, who lives there. I went to the 2nd biggest church in the world, tried smoked meat for the first time (my favorite meal EVER!) and enjoyed the view from Mont Royal.
However, the very best part of my time in Montreal was that I could explore the city like a local thanks to my friend! I didn’t only go to the touristy spots, but also to restaurants and bars that are only known to locals. This is one of the biggest takeaways of my trip: Go local!
The other one is that I have learned how useful English is. I could talk to everyone; even if Montreal is not an English native area, but French!
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
Throughout my time working at Meiji, I have grown a lot, especially through acquiring many new skills. I perform a variety of different tasks and in doing so; I have built up a skill set in many areas that complement my academic background. For instance, I have become more flexible and adaptive. Since I work in an incredibly diverse work environment, I did not only introduce the Meiji Interns to my culture but also adopted new ways of thinking.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
For me, the best thing about my job is when a student visits us upon completing their internship. I love seeing what they have learned, how far they have come and how they have grown as a person. It is not only about them knowing how to greet their colleagues in Japanese but also about seeing how self-confident they have become.
There was one student whom I introduced to the Japanese business etiquette before the start of her internship. A few days before leaving Japan, she came to visit and told me how smooth her internship went thanks to knowing all the things I taught her. That was by far my proudest moment.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I would choose the Taiwan Business Package.
Taiwan, because it is not as well known as the other places and hence tremendously intriguing! I would love to observe the changes that are currently unfolding, especially in regards to the globalization of Taiwan’s work environment. In addition, it is very close to many other locations, which makes it easy to travel.
The Business Package, because I would like to experience Taiwan as a local rather than a tourist. In order to have that opportunity (live on my own, take the local transportation, attend the business workshop), I’d have to choose this package.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
The most unique part about Meiji Internships is the individual focus that we place on each and every student! From Skype consultation to answering questions through emails, from gathering loads of information from interns and host companies to checking that information over and over again, we always do our best to find the best match.
In order to focus on each student individually and give them the best matching possible, you need outstanding teamwork! That’s what I experience every day: We work really close together, can ask anyone for help and obtain many different perspectives. Yes, I couldn’t be more proud of Meiji’s teamwork.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
The most important factor is a good relationship between the team members: Respect and openness, being considerate and open-mindedness. In our industry, it is also crucial to know more (as much as possible!) about other cultures. Because in order to properly understand, help and advice someone, you need to know their background.
