This study examined interest in and attitudes toward learning English among first-year nursing students at the Japanese Red Cross Junior College of Akita who participated in the Summer English Homestay Program at Monash University, Australia. The study was intended to learn about students' past and present activities related to English and to investigate the outcomes of the program, focusing on its cross-cultural aspects. Data were collected from two questionnaires and two oral interviews, conducted pre- and post participation, with 11 students. Researchers examined past activities related to English and present interest in and goals for learning English. Results indicated that the short-term study-abroad program positively affected students' motivation and interests. Students reported having more positive attitudes toward learning English and increased interest in learning about differences between Japan and Australia following participation in the program. They realized how important it was to be aware of the Japanese culture in order to understand the Australian culture. Results suggested that the host culture played an important role in promoting cross-cultural attitudes and improving English proficiency. The questionnaire is appended. (SM)