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Oshaberi-kai: Japanese Conversation Table Brings Students Together

September 17, 2025

Oshaberi-kai: Japanese Conversation Table Brings Students Together

Students sit in small groups at desks in a classroom, engaged in discussion. A person stands near the whiteboard, which has words written on it.

This semester, Oshaberi-kai—a weekly Japanese conversation table—was launched by Graduate Teaching Assistant Kei Suzuki, along with student organizers Matt Steinhauer, Keitaro Mitsuhashi, and Nanako Hiroshima, and Lecturer Ayumi Naraoka. The event provides a space for anyone interested in Japanese to practice the language and engage with the community.

The first session, held on September 9, welcomed more than 20 participants who enjoyed lively conversations in Japanese with instructors, peers, and exchange students from Japan. On September 16, nearly 30 students gathered for the second Oshaberi-kai meeting, sharing their enthusiasm for Japanese language and culture, discussing hobbies, and talking about their college lives.

Oshaberi-kai is more than just a place to practice Japanese—it’s a welcoming space for students to make friends and expand their community. The event is open to anyone interested in Japanese, no matter their language proficiency or class enrollment.

Oshaberi-kai meets every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Hagerty Hall 186, and all are welcome to join.

みんなで楽しく話しましょう！