Welcome to the Student Voice series. The 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
Thi Nguyen from Vietnam
Saionji Memorial Scholarship
Why did you choose RU and the CRPS Major?
From what I know, Ibaraki, which is in Osaka Prefecture and where the Osaka Ibaraki Campus is, is not as bustling and crowded as downtown areas, but it’s also not as quiet and lacking in amenities as more rural areas, making the cost of living much more reasonable. Everything here feels like the perfect balance for me. Another notable feature is the convenient access from Ibaraki to nearby tourist destinations like Nara, Kobe, and Kyoto. Being an outgoing girl who loves traveling, I feel like Ibaraki was made for me. I truly enjoy the feeling of hopping on a train to watch the sunset in Nara and returning on the same day after a busy week of classes. Such a new city, over the past year, has become a place of comfort - where I not only explore academic knowledge but also challenge myself to step outside my comfort zone. For me, when choosing a university, the city itself is one of the most important factors.
Initially, I wanted to avoid majors that involved numbers and calculations, focusing instead on social science fields with practical applications. I believed CRPS met all those criteria. However, after studying here, I realized that wasn’t entirely accurate. In reality, social research also requires quantitative methods. While I didn’t encounter much math during my first year, I’ve come to understand that in the coming years, I’ll need to equip myself with knowledge of data analysis and logical mathematical thinking to support future projects.
Moreover, I am particularly impressed by the teaching style of the program, which prioritizes students’ initiative and independence. Throughout my studies, I’ve found that this environment has significantly nurtured my self-discipline and critical thinking skills. Additionally, CRPS is one of the few programs that offers full MEXT scholarships to students. The absence of financial pressures has greatly contributed to my ability to excel academically at the university.
Find out more about the MEXT University Recommendation Scholarship, Special Selection
About your studies...
Give us an overview of your studies and course schedule from your first year to now.
I have just completed my third semester, and my studies so far have focused on building a strong academic foundation. During my first year, I took core courses such as Academic Writing and Introduction to Academic Research to enhance my writing and research skills. I also completed 12 mandatory Japanese language credits in my first two semesters, which I no longer need to take starting from my third semester.
In addition to core requirements, I’ve prioritized electives like English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and computing-related courses such as Spatial Analysis. These electives were chosen to equip me with essential academic and technical skills before moving to more specialized courses in the following semester.
Starting from my third semester, I selected a thesis supervisor and joined a seminar class, which will officially begin in my fourth semester. This marks the start of my focus on specialized courses in my major. In the upcoming semesters, I will concentrate on completing my major requirements and working on my thesis project.
What was the most interesting class you have taken so far?
The most interesting class I’ve taken so far is Introduction to Academic Research with Professor Hicks. This is a foundational course focusing on essential skills and knowledge for conducting research, providing a strong basis for future classes like thesis writing or final reports in our major subjects.
Although it’s a mandatory course for first-year students, many have to struggle due to the heavy weekly workload. Personally, I encountered quite a lot of difficulties with the assignments and had to spend lots of nights without sleep to keep up with the class. However, the improvement in my research and writing skills by the end of the course was undeniable, and I feel much more confident tackling advanced academic tasks.
One of the highlights of the class was a competition at the end of the semester for the top four students with the best research proposals. I made it to the top four, and the experience was both rewarding and memorable, offering me a chance to showcase my work and receive constructive feedback from our CRPS professors.
Have you participated in any fieldwork projects?
What was the project about? Where did you go, and what tasks or activities did you engage in?
I am currently serving as the Vice Leader of the Beyond Borders Plaza (BBP). The BBP operates under the direct management of the International Center, and my primary responsibilities include providing advice and support to students, as well as organizing monthly cultural and language exchange events for all students. This has been one of the most enriching experiences for me over the past year, offering countless opportunities to meet and learn from others.
Through this role, I’ve been able to develop valuable skills in event planning, management, networking, communication, and problem-solving. Being part of the BBP has also given me unique opportunities to collaborate with professors from the International Center and even engage with middle and high school students during off-campus events.
Since the BBP office is conveniently located on the first floor of the campus, it’s easy to access, and many students often drop by to chat with me during my working hours. Feel free to join us whenever you have time!
Tell us about your daily schedule.
What time do your classes usually end? How many hours do you study outside of class each day?
How do you typically spend your weekends?
Message to prospective students
I’ve just completed my first year of university, so I don’t have much experience to share, but I hope my insights can help someone in one way or another.
First, before applying, I think it’s important to carefully consider your decision to choose a school, a major, or studying abroad in general. Studying abroad is a long journey; you’ll have to make sacrifices, but you’ll also gain other valuable things in return. Make sure you’re mentally and financially prepared before committing to studying abroad. Personally, after a year here, I’m quite satisfied with my initial decision. I chose to leave my home country because one day I wanted to return and see it through a different lens, and I’m deeply grateful for how much this past year of studying abroad has helped me grow.
Second, once you’ve made up your mind, I encourage you to give your best effort and put all your heart and dedication into the application process and interview. My advice is to pay attention to even the smallest details, from your personal photo and letters of recommendation to more significant elements like your essay. I believe your efforts will be rewarded in one way or another. And once you’ve done your best, you won’t regret the outcome, no matter what it is. Keeping this mindset, especially during the interview, will help you feel more at ease and confident.
Good luck to all of you!
