The students, from Meikai University in Urayasu, Chiba, Japan, are participating in the English Adventure Program organized by the University of Guam Global Learning & Engagement Office. The visit brings Meikai’s entire freshman class to Guam and represents one of UOG’s largest international student groups visiting this year.

By the end of 2026, Global Learning & Engagement projects that 4,525 participants will have come through its programs.

“We want every student who comes through our programs to have an experience they will remember long after they leave Guam,” said Carlos Taitano, Director of Global Learning & Engagement. “They are here to strengthen their English, but they are also learning about CHamoru culture, connecting with our students, and discovering Guam in a way they could not experience in a classroom back home.”

Guam as the classroom

The Meikai University students started with a presentation on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by Kyle Mandapat of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability.

The program also introduces students to local culture and health topics through special lectures by UOG faculty and staff. Presenters include Dr. Kenneth Kuper, Cody Lizama, Daniel Pangelinan, and Nolan Flores from the CHamoru Studies program and Jennifer Macaraeg Salas from the Margaret Perez Hattori-Uchima School of Health.

The visiting freshmen will also interact with local university students from the UOG International Friendship Club through scavenger hunts and other activities designed to strengthen conversational English skills while encouraging friendships and cultural exchange.

The experience extends beyond UOG’s campus. Visiting students explore Guam, experience CHamoru culture, and patronize local shops, restaurants, attractions, and other businesses during their stay.

But the learning experience does not stop at the edge of campus.

During their time on Guam, international students experience the island’s culture and community and visit local restaurants, shops, attractions, and other businesses. Students participating in other Global Learning & Engagement programs during summer and intersession periods also stay in UOG residence halls, bringing additional activity to campus when traditional student occupancy is lower.

“Welcoming more than 4,500 international students in one year demonstrates how the University of Guam can contribute to our island in ways that extend beyond our traditional academic programs,” said Dr. Sharleen Santos-Bamba, Senior Vice President and Provost. “International education brings people to Guam, creates economic activity in our community, and strengthens relationships with universities and future generations of students throughout our region.”

Building international connections through education

Global Learning & Engagement’s programs combine English-language development, academic programming, cultural exchange, and community experiences to provide international students with opportunities to learn both at UOG and throughout Guam.

The programs also create opportunities for UOG students, faculty, and staff to build relationships with international universities and students without leaving the island.

For more information about English Adventure Programs, contact the University of Guam Global Learning & Engagement Office at (671) 735-2600/01 or uog.gle@triton.uog.edu.