For my CIP this semester, I chose to do weaving lessons with Kawasaki Sensei once a week. Through this CIP, I learned to weave a new pattern each session. 

I found this experience to be enjoyable and, honestly, very relaxing. I used these sessions to take my mind off work and focus mainly on improving my speaking skills. However, not only did I get to practice my Japanese speaking skills, but I also got to learn a new skill that I had never tried before. Even though I started very unconfident, with the encouragement of my sensei, I felt more at ease trying new things and holding genuine conversations with him and his wife.

I think for future students choosing their CIP, please don’t be afraid to ask questions and allow yourself to make mistakes. Especially when doing lessons like weaving, just being myself and allowing myself to relax around my sensei was the best way for me to learn from him. Additionally, once you allow yourself to be more open, your conversations each week will become less strained and/or robotic, and instead, friendly and like catching up with an old friend.