For my CIP, I participated in the Kyoto University Choir, joining their weekly evening rehearsals on the Kyoto University campus. They have three practices a week, and you can choose whichever days you would like to go. I sang with the Alto section and had a really fun time experiencing what it was like to be part of a fully student-organized Japanese musical circle.

Over the semester, choir slowly shifted from something unfamiliar and intimidating to a normal, comfortable part of my weekly routine. Observing how clearly the student leaders organized rehearsals gave me a new appreciation for role delegation, respect, and group communication in Japan.

Don’t stress if things feel awkward or slow at first. Relationships in any student groups take time, not force. Even if you’re shy like me, show small signs of engagement (greetings, nodding, following instructions carefully), and they are so kind, so you’ll naturally blend into the group before you realize it!