Welcome to the Student Voice Series. The series interviews students in our English-medium programs. Once a month, the International Admissions Office releases an interview with our students. We hope these interviews can be helpful to you when thinking about choosing to come to Ritsumeikan University (RU).
Post by International Admissions Office
Soomin from South Korea
College of International Relations,
Global Studies Major (GS), 4th Year
Scholarships Received:
JASSO,
Tuition Reduction Scholarship,
Saionji Scholarship,
+R Scholarship
The biggest reason for choosing Ritsumeikan University is that there are many international students. As I wanted to study with friends from various backgrounds and cultures, there being many international students in Ritsumeikan attracted me. In fact, many in-class discussions and activities with global students helped me to greatly expand my global perspectives.
In high school, I attended six model United Nations conferences, which helped me realize my strong interest in understanding and discussing international issues. Then, I decided that I wanted to major in international studies to gain a more in-depth understanding. What I like about GS is that all classes are in English, but I can take classes in Japanese if I want. To deepen my knowledge and raise my language skills, I decided to major in GS in at Ritsumeikan University.
What made you think about looking for a university in Japan?
My major in the Japanese language in high school affected my decision to study in Japan. Though I could understand the nuances of Japanese by studying textbooks, I knew there was still lots more to learn about its culture, language, and people. Since I wanted to speak Japanese fluently, I started to dream about experiencing this firsthand in Japan. Decisively, the school's field trip to Japan made me decide to study in Japan.
Did you have any concerns before coming to Japan?
No matter how hard I studied, English and Japanese were foreign languages to me, so I was worried about languages. However, several language programs and classes at Ritsumeikan University helped me to alleviate my concerns. For example, taking Japanese language courses is mandatory to gain credits. By taking the courses every day, I was able to study every field of the Japanese language, including reading, listening, and conversation.
In addition, I participated in the "SUP" language exchange program. It's a great way to make foreign friends while also teaching each other our own language. I think having concerns before starting a new thing is a natural phenomenon. Thus, the most important point is a willingness to learn new things and overcome those difficulties.
In my first year, I took mandatory classes like Japanese language courses; Academic Skills I, II, III; and Introductory Seminars I and II. I found my interests in culture and society.
From the 2nd year, I started to take courses that I am interested in, such as Sociology for Global Studies, Cultural Awareness and Communication, Media and Society, etc.
Since the 3rd year, I have focused on Zemi (Advanced Seminar) with Professor Smith Nathaniel Michael. In my Zemi, we study methodology in-depth and focus on each graduation thesis. I am planning to write about history and tourism between Okinawa and Jeju for my thesis.
Can you describe your class choices for the previous semester / next semester?
I tend to take several classes related to one field together in the same semester. I took a lot of Japan-related lessons last semester. For example, I took courses such as Japanese Culture, Economic Development in Japan, and Japan and the West, where I could learn about the history of Japanese culture, economics, and foreign relations.
I really enjoy my life at RU. There are so many opportunities to challenge and develop myself.
I have been doing two types of part-time work on campus. I work as student staff at the Ritsumeikan University Peace Museum and research assistant in Professor Thomas French's office. I have been working as a staff member since my second year. My job is to guide visitors through permanent exhibitions, hold NGO workshops, etc. Since the museum is now under renovation, I don’t guide visitors, but participate in workshops.
I work as a student staff member at the Kyoto Museum for World Peace.
As a research assistant, I translated a Japanese book into English. I really enjoy my work because I can broaden my perspective by reading books. The biggest advantage of working in a school is to have opportunities to learn new things.
In terms of circle activity, I am a member of the ikebana circle. Ikebana is traditional Japanese flower arrangement. Since different flowers are used depending on the season, it feels new every time. It is also attractive to complete the work in a calm atmosphere. I usually go to circle once a month. I also exhibited my work at the school festival. I think starting ikebana is one of the best choices I made in Japan.
I showed this ikebana work in the school festival in 2021.
This is one of my favorite works that I did in ikebana circle.
I was also an auditor of the International Studies Association (ISA) of Ritsumeikan University. The ISA held a collaborative event with the Kyoto City International Foundation,
Kokoka, in November 2021.
ISA students operated a multicultural booth where the locals could experience different cultures on Culture Day, November 3 in Japan. More than 300 people visited our booth.
Kokoka, Kyoto City International Foundation event in November 2021
Yes. I have lived in International House Taishogun since I was a first-year student. I lived there as a student for two years, but since last year, I've been a resident mentor. Dorm life before COVID-19 is one of the best memories of my university life. I was able to meet many international students and become good friends. I am still in contact with some of them. Potluck was my favorite activity in the dorm. After two years living there as a student, I now support international students as a resident mentor.
Gaining academic knowledge is important, but I want you to experience many things and learn new things at RU!
학업도 중요하지만, 리츠메이칸에서 많은 것들을 경험하며 배우시길 바랍니다!