KLI intern works with DOD personnel, builds English skills, Japan-U.S. relationship

Published Sept. 2, 2013
By Yuka Kinjo
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Each year, the Kadena Language Institute partners with the U.S. Department of Defense here to improve English communication skills for students.

Yusuke Okuma, an intern with the Kadena Marina Aug. 13 to Sept. 5, is one of 13 KLI students incorporated into U.S. military units and offices around the island.

"I'm happy to work here," he said. "I'm interested in scuba and sports, but I've never tried it. So I wanted to know what equipment for marine sports (were needed). I was able to memorize their equipment as soon as possible. I've got this opportunity, and I will try scuba, absolutely."

During his internship at the marina, Okuma performed many tasks around the shore-side shop that increased his interaction with native English speakers.

"Mainly I work front desk," Okuma said. "I receive phone calls, serve customers, and put the price stickers on the merchandise."

However, as an intern in an unfamiliar environment, Okuma said he faced many difficulties assimilating into the culture.

"I got really nervous, and I couldn't talk with everyone positively when I was starting to work, but I realized that I don't have a choice," Okuma said. "I have to talk with coworkers and customers, so I improved my English skill for conversation (by talking) with customers and their staffs."

Heather Stahl, Kadena Marina lead recreation assistant, said while working with the DOD civilians at the Marina, Okuma learned a lot and improved considerably.

"He has helped with customer interaction, answering a phone, rental, and retail," Stahl said.

For future interns, Okuma and Stahl recommended student interns and supporting facilities alike have an interest in what interns are doing to make the experience enjoyable.

"It also makes it easier and more exciting for us to teach them," Stahl added. "It's important for us as Americans because it gives us an inside into Japanese culture and language. It's also important for interns because they kind of get a glimpse of how the Americans run things."