Hello, everyone! I’m Sorama Yamashita, a third-year student in the Global Tourism Department. I belong to Professor Hirata’s seminar. In this seminar, we conducted some unique research during the spring semester. We went on a study trip to Busan, Korea, with my fellow seminar members from September 8th to 12th. Today, I will introduce our activities and share my experiences from the Korean Busan study trip.

Seminar Research Activities
First, let me introduce our seminar activities. The theme of our research was "Plans for Improving Recruitment Activities from a Student's Perspective." The goal was to create an appealing company brochure to help businesses struggling with recruitment.
To begin, we visited a local company to learn more about their work in detail. We conducted interviews and on-site visits, during which representatives shared insights about their business's strengths and appeal. Through this process, we gained a better understanding of the company’s unique qualities. After gathering this information, we held discussions to analyze the company’s information and brainstorm brochure designs.
We focused on what aspects of the company would attract students as potential employees and how to communicate this effectively. We also researched other companies' websites and brochures, analyzing successful case studies and presentation techniques. As a result, we were able to incorporate effective strategies into the brochure for our cooperating company.
The findings of this research were presented at the 2024 International GLOCAL-TOURISM Student Presentation on the third day of our study trip in Busan, Korea.

Study Trip to Busan, Korea
Next, I will talk about our study trip to Busan. Along with this essay, I have created a video summarizing the trip from the first to the fifth day—please take a look if you’re interested. Participation in the Busan training program was optional, and I was initially concerned about the cost. However, I decided to join for three main reasons: I wanted to build friendships with my seminar members, I was excited about the opportunity to visit Korea, and I hoped to create lasting memories from my time as a student. These motivations made the experience worthwhile.

Presentation Contest in Busan
On the third day of our trip, we participated in the 2024 International GLOCAL-TOURISM Student Presentation. This was the culmination of our spring semester research. In addition to Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, several other institutions participated, including KINDAI University, Hannan University, Osaka University of Commerce, Seinan Jo Gakuin University, Nara Prefectural University, and NPO Corporation Adovo. Some universities presented in English, while others presented in Japanese. During the afternoon session, our seminar from Kyoto University of Foreign Studies gave our presentation. All eight members stood on stage and spoke in Japanese. I was very nervous, but we presented with confidence and considered it a great success. This experience allowed us to share the results of our hard work with professors and students from other universities.

Additionally, this presentation motivated me for my upcoming graduation thesis and mid-year report. Although I’m not part of the group continuing this project in the fall semester, three members are working on new activities. Our partner companies have reached out, expressing interest in using social media platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and TikTok for promotional videos.
Our efforts were recognized, and we were awarded the Encouragement Prize for our presentation. Reflecting on this, I feel grateful for choosing Professor Hirata’s seminar and for the unforgettable memories we created during the Busan trip.

Conclusion
Finally, I want to thank everyone who supported us throughout this journey. The Busan trip and the research we conducted have been invaluable experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Thank you all for reading!

Here is a video link. Please check this out!!