USCHS welcomes Japanese students

The experience was organized by Chie Ramsey, Upper St. Clair High School Japanese teacher.

“The generous USCHS host families welcomed the students for a homestay experience,” Ms. Ramsey said. “During their visit, the MOIS students participated in their host students' classes, and also Intercultural Studies and Japanese language classes.”

The visiting students delivered cultural presentations and led activities for the school’s Global Fluency, social studies and world language classes. Their presentations covered topics about their hometown, and they engaged students in hands-on activities such as traditional Japanese games, Yukata wearing, Kendama, Origami, and converting students' names into Kanji characters. 

A highlight was visiting Jessica Peconi’s family and consumer science classroom after school.

“Thanks to Ms. Peconi’s support, they also had a cooking session, where they enjoyed baking and sharing chocolate chip cookies with their host students,” Ms. Ramsey said.

As part of their cultural exploration, the students explored the city of Pittsburgh, including riding the inclines, visiting the Heinz History Center and enjoying lunch and shopping in the Strip District.

As a culminating activity, the MOIS students participated in the 2025 High School Japanese Speech Contest on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Oakland.

“They had a wonderful experience engaging with the USCHS Japanese class participants, as well as students from other Japanese classes in the Pittsburgh area,” Ms. Ramsey said. “Their positive influence was significant.”

Ms. Ramsey believes the visit had a lasting impact on both MOIS and Upper St. Clair students, strengthening their cultural connections.

“Although it was a short visit, the experience was truly meaningful,” she said. “This successful exchange was made possible by the incredible support of host families and students, whose generosity and hospitality were invaluable. We look forward to maintaining this friendship and visiting their school in the future!”

The visit required extensive coordination and collaboration with the high school.

“I am so appreciative for the support of our high school administration and staff,” Ms. Ramsey said. “Without their support, this exchange would not have been possible.”

Ms. Ramsey and the world language department are currently exploring opportunities for a reciprocal trip to Japan to visit Pittsburgh’s sister city, Saitama.

“A sister-city exchange program is important for students because it provides valuable cultural exchange and understanding, language development, friendship and networking, personal growth, global awareness, educational benefits, and future opportunities,” Ms. Ramsey said.