SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — For the past week, the English Language Institute at Missouri State University hosted 116 high school students from Isesaki, Japan, Springfield’s sister city.
Students who participated in the Isesaki Global Leadership Academy are wrapping up their program here in Springfield but not without experiencing the Ozarks first.
One student who participated said she had concerns before coming over.
“I was so nervous before these experiences, but they welcomed me very warmly,” she said.
For the last week, students focused on leadership development in areas such as population, technology and security.
But before students left, they had the opportunity to spend a day with an American family.
“We had a wonderful opportunity to foster for the weekend, taking them to see the sights of Springfield. Bass Pro, Buc-ees, the nature center, Route 66. Just a wonderful cultural exchange,” Kimberly Riggs said.
Riggs was one of many hosts for the students. She says that this experience has been positive for students.
“We had two on Saturday, two on Sunday. A lot of just that they want to know more about Springfield. Definitely curious about Springfield.”
This was the first time the leadership academy has been held since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Riggs says she is excited to see this program continue into the future once again.
“Now that COVID is over, we can hopefully do this once or twice a year,” Riggs said. “Cultural exchange is huge. I mean, understanding opportunities. It’s just understanding different cultures, learning to respect other cultures.”
The students also got to spend a day at Silver Dollar City, truly completing their cultural experience.
