The ISSE students have two labs in the CC (Creation Core) building, and it is my favorite place in the university. We can study or spend time freely without restrictions. I used to do the group project or study before the final exams in the lab. Also, the building is close to the convenience store so that I can grab a snack easily.
Have you had any difficulties when you started a new life here?
For international students, especially ISSE students, the beginning is not so easy because of the language. Generally, the international center at the university tries to help international students, but sometimes we need to handle things by ourselves. When I moved out from the I-House to my own place nearby the campus, I needed to go to the city hall for a move-in and out report, and I couldn't speak Japanese fluently. That was the hardest moment of my life in Japan. However, some employees of the real estate agency can speak English and I used a translator, and overall, I managed most of the time with no hassles.
Students love staying up late at night. How do you balance your study and evening entertainment?
I used to go to bed at 4 am last year. I also hang out with my friends a lot, but I finished given assignments before I went out. Firstly, when I had homework, I listed on my Mac with the due date and brief information to not forget it. The best time to do assignments or sleep is between the lectures. Usually, I had 2~3 hours of free time at the university. In the ISSE lab, I started the homework with friends or had a short nap.
What do you miss from Korea? How do you beat homesick?
I have never felt lonely because I am not in Korea with family or friends, but sometimes I miss Korean food. I love spicy foods in Korea, but it is hard to find real spicy foods in Japan. There are some Korean restaurants near my house but not the food that I want. Also, it is a little bit expensive to buy Korean products on the internet. The solution I found was to find another restaurant in Kyoto and make meals for myself. If anyone needs spicy Korean food, I can help with that.
Don't hesitate to apply to Ritsumeikan University! You can experience a new life-style and meet new friends friends and learn technologies and teamwork skills in the university. Hope I can see you guys in the university :-D
안녕하세요! ISSE 3학년 송예진입니다. 진학에 대해 또 일본대학에 지원하는 부분에 대해 많이 고민할 시기일것 같아요. 저도 들어오기 전에 '내 영어 실력으로 괜찮을까, 너무 어렵진 않을까' 같은 생각들을 많이 했는데, 대학에 들어오고 이젠 3학년이 된 지금 돌아보면 좋은 선택을 했다고 생각해요. 새로운 나라에서 생활하며 공부하는게 쉬운일만은 아니었지만 그럼에도 새로 배워 얻어가는것, 재밌었던 기억이 더 많아서 뿌듯하고 즐거웠던 2년이었던것 같아요. 저처럼 고민하는 분들에게, 리츠메이칸에 관심이 있는 분들에게 조금이나마 도움이 되었으면 좋겠어요. 학교에서 만나볼 수 있길 바래볼게요. 다들 화이팅입니다! :-)