Language and Belonging Through Homestay: Yumi’s Story

Alumni Spotlight: Yumi Takashima

• Graduated HTIC: 2021

• Originally from: Chiba, Japan

• Transferred to: University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa

• Currently: Living in Chiba and working as a business analyst at a global consulting company

When Yumi left Chiba, Japan, to attend Hawaii Tokai International College (HTIC), she wasn’t sure what to expect—but one of the most meaningful choices she made was to homestay with a local family. Living with them gave her a unique chance to experience daily life in Hawai‘i while gradually building comfort using English in real-world situations.

At first, speaking in English felt intimidating. But the kindness and patience of her host family helped ease that pressure. Through everyday conversations and shared routines, she began to use English more naturally—asking questions, expressing herself, and gaining confidence. Combined with HTIC’s College Preparatory (CP) program, the homestay environment helped her grow from basic-level English to being able to participate more fully in academic and social settings.

Her relationship with the host family didn’t end after HTIC. While attending the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where she later majored in marketing, Yumi remained close with them—often attending local events, sharing meals, and even taking short trips together. They continue to keep in touch to this day.

In addition to homestay life, Yumi volunteered in the local community through beach cleanups and food bank activities. She also made international friends who helped her practice English, while she supported them in learning Japanese—exchanges that deepened both language skills and friendships.

Now back in Chiba, Yumi works as a business analyst at a consulting company, where she uses English regularly in a global work environment. Though her current role is not directly tied to her major, the cross-cultural communication skills and adaptability she developed during her time in Hawai‘i continue to support her in her career.

Q&A with Yumi

Q1: What motivated you to study abroad at HTIC?
I wanted to improve my English and experience life in a different culture. I was looking for something more immersive than just taking classes in Japan. HTIC felt like a place where I could take that first step.

Q2: What were some things you did to push yourself out of your comfort zone?
I worked at the campus library, joined student government, and tried to speak English as much as possible. I also made an effort to make friends outside of the Japanese student group, which helped me grow socially and linguistically.

Q3: What was your experience like in the CP program?
It really helped me build my English foundation. I came in with very basic skills, and by the time I finished, I could participate in classes and speak more naturally. The environment was supportive and gave me space to practice every day.

Q4: How did your time in Hawai‘i influence your career path?
Even though I majored in marketing at UH Mānoa, I ended up working as a business analyst at a console company. My bilingual skills and ability to communicate across cultures have been more important than my exact degree. I use English every day in my job.

Q5: Did you stay in Hawai‘i after graduating?
Yes, I stayed for nine months on OPT. I worked in different roles—from a bakery café to a ramen restaurant and retail consultant at an Australian retail shop. I used both English and Japanese, especially with tourists from the mainland and Japan.

Q6: What advice would you give to future HTIC students?
Try everything. Whether it's a homestay, volunteering, or joining a club, those are the moments that help you grow the most. Don't be afraid to make mistakes—they're part of the learning process. And enjoy Hawai‘i—it’s a really special place.