We had a chance to sit down for a talk with Mr O, a first-year student from the Faculty of Bioresources who is in the Special English Program (SEP).

Adventures in social distancing: Kyoto.

Tell us something about yourself.

I like watching movies in my free time. I make original goods like painted t-shirts, and I've even made a bug-catching net.

I became interested in English years ago because of the song "Uptown Funk". Since then, I sing songs in English every day.

What is one way that you've changed this year?

This year I've tried to be more independent. I visited Kyoto by myself-my first time taking a trip like that alone. I've been to karaoke alone. Developing the courage to do something by yourself is a good way to have a better life.

Tell us about your experience in SEP.

What I enjoy most is giving presentations because it's interesting to share my ideas with others and I can show the audience what I've made. If I weren't in SEP, I wouldn't have so many chances to make presentations in English.

Is there anything else that you would like to tell us?

Yes. I have a message for next year's students: Even though you feel embarrassed about speaking English in front of others, I want you to be active and speak proudly.