Don’t let your study abroad be just an experience.
CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar CQ Business® ｜ AtGlobal, Ltd.
Unexpected “cultural barriers” often stand in the way of overseas challenges.
In the CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar, participants gain the communication skills needed to build trust with others and grow in intercultural settings. Prevent misunderstandings and take your first step with confidence.
VIDEO Cases I apologized right away,
I listened quietly,
I voiced my opinion clearly,
The key to overcoming failures caused by “cultural barriers” is CQ!
Benefit 01
Strengthen intercultural communication by developing the habit of asking ‘Why?’
02
Use your own culture as an asset and gain confidence to speak up.
03
Respect others while still expressing your own opinions clearly.
Program The CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar teaches CQ in three practical steps.
STEP
Learning “Why?”
Understand the causes of cultural differences and take the first step toward intercultural understanding.
Why is CQ necessary?
Benefit 1: Avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and stress Benefit 2: Express your own culture clearly Benefit 3: Gain tolerance and respect for other cultures STEP
Learning “How?”
Based on real failures common in study abroad life, participants learn effective strategies.
Five Mindsets for Adapting to New Cultures
Avoid extremes and maintain a balanced perspective Avoid oversimplifying by thinking ‘because they are from X country.’ Recognize cultural diversity as an “advantage” Look for “common ground” beneath surface-level differences Expand your “comfort zone” with intention STEP
Putting It into Practice
Practice communication skills you can use immediately through hands-on group work.
Knowledge and Tools for Understanding Cultures
Tool 1: A “scale” to measure culture Tool 2: High-context vs. Low-context communication Tool 3: Practical scenarios: group work on misunderstandings in communication Voices I was able to learn the importance of intercultural understanding and diversity through concrete real-world examples. In group work, I encountered perspectives different from my own and felt my outlook broaden greatly.
Through the instructor’s personal stories and discussions with other participants, I experienced knowledge turning into ‘living wisdom.’ I truly felt my practical understanding deepen.
Rather than just learning cultural differences, I gained a step further: ‘How can I overcome those differences and build better relationships?’ It became a guideline for me to act with confidence.
Instructor Yukiko KAGEYAMA
Having lived in multiple countries across the Middle East and Asia since childhood…
Studied at a U.S. graduate school and worked 12 years in China at an accounting firm as an interpreter and translator. Currently a seminar instructor, delivering practical training in intercultural competence and global communication.
B.A. in History from Kyoto University. M.S. in Accounting from Kennesaw State University.
Turn Your Overseas Experience
CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar Schedule : Ongoing
Location : Online / In-person
Duration : 1 hour
Capacity : Flexible
Please feel free to contact us.
FAQ What does CQ stand for? CQ stands for “Cultural Intelligence,” the capability to function effectively in culturally diverse settings.
What are the features of CQ? It is the intelligence that enables effective interaction with people from different cultures and values. Unlike IQ (intelligence quotient) or EQ (emotional intelligence), CQ reflects the ability to act effectively in multicultural environments. A high CQ helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts caused by cultural differences and draws out the strengths of diverse teams.
Is CQ academically reliable and widely recognized? Yes. CQ (Cultural Intelligence) is a well-researched and academically supported index that is internationally recognized. Since the concept was proposed around 1999–2000, research has been conducted in over 150 countries. Especially since the 21st century, hundreds of studies have examined effective work and team management in multicultural environments.
Does this seminar teach CQ specific to certain countries (e.g., the U.S. or China), or is it a universal skill? The CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar does not focus on specific countries. Instead, it teaches universal communication skills applicable to any intercultural setting. The instructor has experience in Asia, the Middle East, and the U.S., and introduces common misunderstandings and cultural differences across countries. However, CQ is not about learning etiquette or customs of a specific country—it emphasizes the mindset and approach for handling cultural differences, skills that can be applied anywhere.
Who is this seminar mainly for (university students, professionals, high school students, etc.)? The seminar mainly targets high school and university students preparing for exchange or private study abroad. Parents are also welcome to participate upon request.
Is a certain level of language proficiency required? Will the seminar be in Japanese? No prior language proficiency is required. The seminar is conducted entirely in Japanese. It is not a language training program, but rather focuses on how to approach and handle “cultural barriers” encountered abroad.
Are there differences between online and in-person formats in terms of content or outcomes? The content itself does not change, but the way group sessions are conducted differs. In-person sessions tend to foster deeper dialogue and networking among participants, while online sessions allow efficient learning regardless of location. You can choose the format that best fits your learning style.
How can I apply for the CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar? Please apply via the inquiry page, stating “Interested in the CQ Study Abroad Preparation Seminar.” Our staff will then provide details.
What is the participation fee? Fees vary depending on the number of participants and the format (online/in-person). Please feel free to contact us. Consultations are free.
