From Changshu to Karuizawa: A Firsthand Account of a Lingyu Student’s UWC Japan Winter Camp

The winter camp’s theme was firmly rooted in cutting-edge global trends, structured around two core pillars: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Design Thinking.

Teaching Model: The 50 camp participants were divided into two groups, with classes delivered on an alternating schedule. Mornings were dedicated to intensive brainstorming sessions, while afternoons shifted to sports, social activities, or free time.

Difficulty Level: The coursework was rated as moderately challenging. Student Y noted that some topics overlapped with what he had learned in domestic schools, yet examining these concepts in a fully English-speaking environment sparked entirely new perspectives.

English Proficiency Challenge: With a solid foundation in English, Student Y had successfully passed the UWC ISAK Winter Camp admission assessment. He navigated English communication with ease throughout the program, once again underscoring the value of consistent language practice.

Many parents worry that overseas winter/summer camps may devolve into “Chinese-only” gatherings. At UWC ISAK Japan, however, such concerns are decidedly unfounded.

Exceptional Cultural Diversity: According to Student Y’s observations, among the 50 campers, only one held a mainland Chinese passport and attended school in China. In total, no more than 4–5 students could speak Chinese.

Active Engagement of Senior Students: Beyond the two professional instructors, current long-term students at UWC played an integral role in the camp. They joined participants in afternoon sports activities and provided highly professional feedback during the final project presentations. This “Peer Influence” lies at the very heart of UWC’s ethos.

Japan’s Karuizawa is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, and the UWC ISAK Japan campus is nestled right within this idyllic setting.

Nature vs. Facilities: Student Y was particularly enchanted by the campus’s natural surroundings. While he objectively noted that the academic buildings’ hardware was slightly less advanced than those at UWC Changshu, the serene tranquility of being surrounded by mountains and forests was truly unparalleled.

Communal Living: Accommodations were arranged at a hotel a 15-minute walk from the campus. Student Y was assigned to an 8-person room. Though the space was compact and shower time had to be staggered within a 90-minute window, he adapted seamlessly. This communal living experience not only fostered independence but also taught valuable lessons in navigating social boundaries.

When asked to compare his experience with the domestic UWC camp, Student Y gave a clear answer: “I preferred the Japan program.”

The reason was simple yet profound: the exceptionally diverse cultural atmosphere.

Student Y’s journey is part of Lingyu Education’s “Long-Term Mentorship” program. In our view, the true value of overseas short-term programs—such as micro-study tours, high-impact experiential programs (winter/summer camps), and summer schools—extends far beyond a mere certificate of completion. Their worth lies in:

Authentic Profile Enhancement: Compared to costly, over-polished resumes, genuine experiences gained from participating in high-quality overseas short-term programs are the most compelling details to include in university application essays.

Igniting Self-Motivation: Exposure to the wider world helps students gain clarity on their goals and the motivation to strive for them.