Welcome to the Student Voice series. This series interviews students in our English-medium programs. We hope these interviews can be helpful to you when thinking about choosing to come to Ritsumeikan University (RU).
Post by International Admissions Office
I chose to study in the Joint Degree Program at Ritsumeikan University since it offers various options for students to study international relations inside/outside Japan. When I was a high school student, I always wanted to be a diplomat and was interested in learning about international relations in the United States. However, attending an American college was impossible since tuition was not affordable and living expenses were high.
When I found JDP on the internet, I was surprised because the program allows students to study in both Kyoto and Washington, D.C., for two years each. Washington, D.C., is one of the most significant places in international politics and has a lot of inspiring professional opportunities. Also, attending American University, one of the top schools in the US for students who want to pursue their IR studies, is a part of the program, which was the biggest reason for me to apply to the program. I attended general Japanese schools until high school and did not have a chance to take classes all in English. However, since the first three semesters were at RU, I was able to learn basic college writing and get used to classes that are all in English. Also, it was so nice to live in both countries for 2 years each, because I got to learn and experience the differences between Japan and the US, such as the cultures, academic environments, and so on. In addition, with various kinds of scholarship options existing both at AU and RU, I was able to complete my 2-year studies at AU, and I am very glad that I joined the program.
First-year
I tried to take as many foundation and core classes as I could. Since credits in RU and AU weigh differently (1 class is equivalent to 2 credits in RU and 3 credits in AU), I made a brief plan of the class schedule for 4 years in this period. I took academic writing classes, which allowed me to improve my writing and presentation skills as well as English skills.
Second-year
At RU: I took 10-11 classes and did part-time jobs and internships.
At AU: I took classes that all students in their first year at AU are required to take (called HOM: Habits of Mind classes and AUX: American University Experience). Also, I took academic writing, a math class (stats.), classes that are not related to IR, etc.
Third-year
At AU: I took classes that are designed for JDP students, such as a class where we discuss the differences between the US and Japan, AUX2, classes on human rights, Latin America, a zemi (seminar) preparation class, and so on... Also, I took an internship class.
Fourth-year
At AU: I took the zemi class, another internship class, a class focusing on Italian Americans, a French language class, and yoga class!
At RU: I took Advanced Seminar (a zemi class), Special Lecture (an environmental economy class), Business Administration in Japan, International Law, and the Advanced IR class.
I really liked an internship class with Professor Levinson at AU. I did an internship program at the D.C. office of a Japanese newspaper company, and I got experience in translating, accommodating interviews, and so on. She was very supportive when I applied for other internships and helped me by writing a recommendation letter.
In Japan
I interned at KYOTOGRAPHIE for about three months. The office of IR provided the information for this opportunity, so I applied. KYOTOGRAPHIE is an international art/photography festival in Kyoto, and I worked for 10-15 hours per week (I am not sure). I helped visitors in English and provided some explanations for the artwork when needed. It was a nice experience because I got to know so many people working there and used my English in a professional setting for the first time. Also, the internship earned RU credits, so it was good!
In the US
I did an internship program at a D.C. office of a Japanese newspaper company. I got this work since some of my sempai (seniors) were also doing the same internship, and they introduced me to people at the company. It was very flexible, and the average working hours were 10-15 hours per week. I translated from English to Japanese by looking at the scripts from the interview audio, accommodated some interview sessions (and also translated during the session), and so on. It was a great opportunity to develop my English skills professionally, and I got to know many people in the Japanese and American media fields.
I found it very interesting that AU classes have limited seats for students who can enroll in each class (I think the limit was no more than 20 people in one classroom). Because of this system, each class took place with a very, very small student population, and professors were very accessible to me as a student both inside and outside the class. Also, classes at AU were more discussion-based, which helped me step out of my comfort zone. It took me a lot of courage to speak up in class, but I enjoyed it after all. Also, the AU library is open 24/7, which was a huge help! I could not focus on my studies in my room in the dorm, so I always used the library to study all night, especially during finals week. I think these are some of the interesting points to look at as unique features of AU.
I am planning to go back to the US (preferably the DMV (DC/Maryland/Virginia) area, and start working as a language teacher. Thanks to the experiences I gained through my career up until now, I started wanting to get a job where I could support students and make use of my Japanese and English language skills.
Without any of the experiences I gained both at RU and AU, I wouldn't have come to the point where I am standing right now - I seriously became aware of social issues, such as human rights, security matters, and so on, by taking classes in universities. Without my friend at RU who asked me if I wanted to work as a teacher, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to teach someone a language and start wanting to become a language teacher in the US. I would definitely say that my academic experience at AU and RU helped me form who I am and what I want to pursue as a professional goal. I am so grateful to have studied on both campuses.
Wearing a graduation robe and dress
I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to study both at RU and AU, which shaped my career path and dreams. JDP is very unique, and you will get so many opportunities for your professional, academic, and private goals. I know there is still a limited amount of information about this program, but once you get here, I am sure that you'll enjoy it a lot! Please reach out if you have any questions!