Roberts has a "sister" in Osaka, Japan - one any student can visit.
In 1983, Roberts initiated a "sister school" relationship with Osaka Christian College. Founded in 1952 by the Free Methodist Church, OCC is in a metropolitan area of more than 4 million people. Although small, it is a modern campus with all the amenities of modern student life. Three main programs - a theological seminary, an early childhood education program, and an international studies program - comprise the College.
While OCC is a Christian college with required chapel attendance, less than 2 percent of the student body is Christian, which reflects the percentage of Christians in Japan and provides for an especially interesting experience for Roberts students.
Cultural Exchange and Understanding
A three-part program of cultural and educational exchanges has developed. Konnichiwa Week occurs each fall, when OCC students visit New York City as well as Roberts. Each spring, RWC students make a reciprocal visit to Japan - touring Osaka Castle, the ancient city of Kyoto and the Peace Memorial at Hiroshima, staying in the home of an OCC student and experiencing Japanese culture more broadly.
Longer educational cross-cultural experiences also are available. Roberts offers a scholarship in partnership with OCC that allows one OCC student to study here for a semester. OCC offers an English Teaching Assistant program in which an RWC graduate is given a one-year position as an instructor in English Language.
Students interested in participating in this "sister college" program should contact the College's Global Education Coordinator.