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An orientation session for new international students was held on April 3 at Kawauchi Campus.

More than 160 students attended the event. They included undergraduate and graduate students on both degree-seeking and exchange programmes starting this spring.

The information was provided in English and Japanese - in two separate sessions that took place simultaneously.

Participants heard information about university facilities, club activities, support services and English language resources, such as this website and the university's official social media platforms.

A new, free bilingual service known as the Help Desk was also introduced. Run by local and foreign students, and supported by the Global Learning Center, it aims to help international students navigate life on campus and in Japan.

Turning to health matters, Professors Nanae Kojima and Chiyuki Nakaoka spoke on the importance of mental health awareness, and the work they do at the Center for Counseling and Disability Services.

Students were also encouraged to use the Student Health Care Center when they are unwell and need to see a doctor.

Members of the Miyagi prefectural police then gave a short lecture, warning students to be alert to common crimes on campus and around the city. These include the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Since many students commute to campus, there was also a lecture on Sendai's traffic and bicycle rules.

In the second half of the orientation, students visited booths set up by organisations that reflect Tohoku University and Sendai's strong cultural diversity.

Student groups involved in community outreach included the Tohoku University Foreign Students Association (TUFSA) and the Tohoku University Volunteer Support Center (SCRUM).

While community organisations such as Sendai Tourism, Convention and International Association (SenTIA) and Miyagi International Association (MIA) handed out materials promoting language classes and cultural events.

Tohoku University encourages students to get involved in positive community activities as a way to make new friends, understand the local way of life and have a more fulfilling experience in Japan. Students can also keep up with news and events on campus by following the university on social media.

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