Student Voice: [GS] My unexpected freshman journey and expectations for the coming years

Welcome to the Student Voice Series. The series interviews students at our English-medium programs. Once a month, the International Admission Office will release 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

Matheu from Brazil/Japan

College of International Relations,

Global Studies Major(GS) 1st Year

Graduated High School:

Fundação Escola de Comércio Álvares Penteado

Hobbies:

Do Sports and Listen to Music

Why did you choose RU, GS?

I wanted to have new experiences and improve my English. Choosing this program was a perfect option since it offers classes in English, and it is possible to know many students from different countries.

Outline of your course and studies

Since it is my 1st year, I wanted to have as many experiences as possible in the future. That is why this year I am focused on getting many courses that in the 2nd year, I can be certain in which courses I am interested in and focus on them.

At GS, students typically learn introductory courses in their 1st Year.

Check the curriculum for GS and discover what you can study here!

Do you consider going on an international exchange program?

I am considering an exchange program since the COVID-19 pandemic is getting better all over the world. I do not know where to go yet, but I am really excited to go to another country to meet new people. I think that it is very important to for students, regardless of major, to go abroad to learn how to become more independent and of course to improve their skills in the international relations fields.

Did you know over 150 universities in the world are offering

an exchange program to RU students?

Download our Study Abroad Brochure and check our partner universities!

What is in your bag?

Currently, I just have my laptop and my charger. I am considering bringing gym stuff too.

Tell us about your favorite spot, and how is your life at RU?

My favorite spot in Kinugasa Campus is Cafe Junge because I can meet with my friends, eat delicious food and do my homework.

I am not so satisfied with my life at RU due to the COVID-19 pandemic at the moment, most of the classes are held online, and I can rarely see my friends or go to the campus. I am really look forward to the university re-opening fully soon!

GS major is based on Kinugasa Campus in Kyoto.

Check out our campus from the sky!

What do you find 'cool' in Japan and 'weird' in Japan?

I think that the culture (samurai, sakura etc.) is very different and "cool" compared to other countries since this kind of stuff only exists in Japan. Otherwise, the "weird" thing is that Japanese people rarely do skinship (physical contact) with others. In Brazil, we really like to hug and stay close to each other, but in Japan it is considered rude. In my opinion, it is very "weird", this sensation of not getting closer to each other.

Did you have any concern before coming to Japan?

I was afraid of not being able to adapt to the language and to the culture. I overcame my concerns due to my Japanese friends that taught and helped me learn about Japan, and it's language. Do not be afraid just because it is a different country, there will be always someone kind enough to help you!!!

RU has special 'Peer Support' system,

which encourages students to grow as individuals while supporting each other.

Both international and domestic students offer support. Check out the details!

Message in English/ Portuguese

Enjoy every moment as a student at Ritsumeikan University!!! Make precious memories and most importantly have fun and take care of yourself!!!

Se divirta e aproveite. Adquira novas experiências e dê o seu melhor!