The joint symposium “Peking University & Hokkaido University Joint Seminar on Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology” was held at Peking University in China during May 26–27, 2016. About 30 people made poster presentations, combining 17 research presentations by professors and 10 science students participating from both universities. Even though nerves are frayed naturally when making poster presentations in English, I was able to overcome this without being particularly nervous as I had done many poster presentations, participating in overseas presentations and symposiums in the half-year leading up to the joint seminar. In addition, even though it was definitely an “away” presentation, I was able to present in an overall relaxed atmosphere, and I believe that I communicated on the same level as the Peking University students. However, I was challenged by not being able to understand my conversational partners when they were speaking at a rapid tempo. I had to ask them to repeat themselves a few times, and sometimes, I was unable to communicate because of my pronunciation. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise that helped me realize that I must raise my listening comprehension as I wait to study abroad in the U.S.

Taku Okada presenting a poster

Report: Taku Okada (First-term Student)