Dampak Program Internship ke Jepang Bagi Mahasiswa Prodi S1 Sastra Jepang Fakultas Ilmu Budaya Universitas Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This research is about describing the activities carried out by students of the Japanese Literature Study Program at FIB USU d uring Internship in Japan and analyzing their impact on t heir readiness to enter the world of work. The research aims to evaluate the experiences and skills gained during the Internship as well as its influence on students' readiness to face professional c hallenges in the future. This research method uses an analytical descriptive qualitative approach to explore the impact of the Internship program in Japan. Data were collected through a Likert scale questionnaire from 32 respondents who are university stud ents, then thematically analyzed to identify patterns and main themes. The results of the analysis are presented with descriptions, frequency tables, and in depth interpretations of the activities and impacts of the program on Japanese Literature students of FIB USU. The Internship Program in Japan for students of the Japanese Literature Study Program of FIB USU improved their Japanese language skills, work skills, and cultural understanding. Students felt an increase in confidence and readiness for the wor ld of work thanks to direct experience and adaptation in an international environment. This positive impact supports their readiness to face future professional challenges. The Internship Program in Japan enhances the practical skills of students of the Ja panese Literature Undergraduate Program at FIB USU, including communication, time management, and interpersonal skills. Despite facing challenges such as mentorship and work schedules, almost all respondents felt more confident and experienced the benefits of professional networking. The program effectively prep ares students for the global job market, especially in Japanese language and professional skills.