留学生からのメッセージGlobal

Leung Yiu Sing - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2022 - August 2023

学習院大学での留学生活は間もなく終わりを告げる。この一年間は色々なことを体験することができて、毎日楽しく充実して過ごした。国社に入ったので、取っている授業は主に留学生向けの日本語授業と国社の授業だった。この中で、一番楽しかったのは留学生向けの日本語授業だと思う。日本語を学んでいるともに、留学生の友達と自分の国のことを交流し、外国文化を知ることができて自分の視野も広げた。そのほか、国際センターが開講した、外国人留学生が日本人と一緒にグループプロジェクトをやる授業も受けた。毎週日本だけでなく、全世界における社会問題について日本語で話し合うという授業だった。この授業を通じて、日本語も段々と話せるようになったと思った。

授業のほか、国際センターは留学生の皆のためにたくさんのイベントを行ってくれる。毎年恒例のバス旅行のみならず、伝統芸能・能楽鑑賞、ホームステイなども開催された。特にホームステイは学習院大学の日本人学生の家庭に数日間泊まって、現地の生活ができて、日本をもっと深く理解することできる。わたしは帰国する前にこれを参加した。ホストファミリーと日本語で交流しながら、ホストファミリーの手作りの家庭料理を楽しんで、一緒に祭りとか、箱根に行ったりして、様々な日本文化が満喫した。この貴重な体験ができるのはとてもうれしかった。

この一年間、たくさんの人たちと出会えてくれてありがとうございます。一生忘れられないぐらい楽しかった。もし機会があれば、どこかでまだ会いましょう。最後に国際センターのスタッフさんたちにも、快適なキャンパスライフを送ってくれて、心から感謝いたします。

YEUNG, Chuen Lung - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2021 - August 2022

光陰は矢の如し。学習院大学の学生でいる時間ももうすぐ終わりを迎えます。コロナの関係で半年はオンライン留学となって、実際に東京で生活するのが約5ヶ月だけですが、非常に充実した生活を送りました。

様々な授業を取って、日本語だけではなく、国際社会科学の知識も身に着けました。授業の他に、国際交流センターもたくさんのイベントを準備してくれました。コロナの関係で東京以外はあまり行けませんでしたが、川越散策、飴細工体験などのイベントが体験できて楽しかったです。

また、学習院でたくさん優しい人達と出会えて、遊びに行ったり、話し合ったりして、友達になってくれて、幸せでした。短い間ですが、ここで作った思い出は一生の宝物だと思います。心から皆さんにありがとうございました！

YANG, Ning Kwan - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Science
September 2021 - August 2022

I am so glad to be one of the exchange students in Gakushuin University in this year. Exchanging during the pandemic is extremely difficult, but it also becomes a memorable experience in my life.

Due to pandemic, my exchange has been postponed to this year. My first semester of exchange was held online because of the Japan-entry's restriction. Although it was held online, I met a lot of great teachers and improved my Japanese in classes. The teachers in Japanese classes were so nice and friendly. After Japanese government announced the release of border for the overseas students, international center also gave us many supports on the border entry. Summarizing all the details and guidelines for us. Thanks to international center, I could arrive in Japan smoothly in the beginning of April. All the arrangements, including the quarantine, dorm, as well as the registration of classes, were good. I really appreciated the efforts that international center and Gakushuin University has done for us in this difficult time.

All the experience in these few months is unforgettable. I met a lot of friends from different countries, like Italy, Thailand, UK, Poland and so on. I have known a lot more about their countries, which I have never been. We have taught each other about our counties' culture, language, as well as the traditions. We also have experienced the Japanese culture together. International center gave us a lot of opportunities to experience the Japanese traditional culture. Workshops, day trips and events have been organized for us. I made my own glass cup in glass-blowing workshop in Kawagoe. I also learnt to make a traditional Japanese rabbit candy in the candy-making workshop in Ueno. All these experiences are so unique and precious. The exchange program is short, and all these friends last for life.

My Japanese proficiency also improved, thanks to the exchange program. In Gakushuin, I am able to join different activities or student groups organized by locals. I have a lot of chances to speak in Japanese and thus my Japanese is getting better. At first, I was not confident to speak with the Japanese, but turned out all of them are friendly to talk with you. I am now able to talk Japanese confidently and fluently.

It is a wonderful time especially in the pandemic-era. These few months are like living in a dream. I hope we can meet each other again in the near future.

WONG, Tsoi Yin - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Studies, Faculty of Letters
September 2019 - August 2020

2020 is definitely not the perfect year for exchange due to the pandemic. However, it is so far the best academic year I have had. Living here in Tokyo has always been my dream, even if it is only for a short year. I have experienced and learnt so much spending time in Gakushuin University. I think it is amazed that I can choose any course as long as it fits my ability. I had chosen Japanese, English, American culture, and Sports for my schedule. I am grateful that local lecturers are so kind and caring towards exchange students like myself, which they patiently explained and answered my questions whenever I could not understand their Japanese lectures. Many of them even chat with me outside the classroom, and welcomed me to have small chats whenever I feel like needing an advice.

The International Centre of Gakushuin University is also very thoughtful. At first, I was a bit worry of living alone in a foreign country, with possibly not much of assistance. However, International Centre arranged two buddies to help with my studies and all kinds of registrations. It is also a great opportunity for meeting locals at my age. For a rather shy person like me, the buddy programme has helped me connecting with local students. More than that, staffs have always listened to the needs of students, and help solving it promptly. I am grateful for having such caring personal assistance.

All in all, I am very satisfied with my exchange and I am really hoping to be visiting here again.

LIAO, Rongcheng - Beijing Foreign Studies University

Enrolled in Department of Psychology, Faculty of Letters
April 2019 - March 2020

何が一番記憶に残るかというと、たぶんバイトの経験とサークルの活動だろうなと思いました。4月末の頃、生活がだんだん落ち着いてくるにつれて、自分の時間を自由にアレンジできるようになりました。それで、やはりバイトでもやろうかと思って、コンビニのバイトに思い切って応募してみました。その頃、日本語を勉強してまだ一年半しか経っておらず、昔もバイトをしたことがないということで、最初の二ヶ月間は大変でした。でもだんだん慣れてきて、いつも緊張してしまう癖も改善されて、どんどん仕事ができるようになりました。「雨上がり、虹がかかる」のように、いわゆる達成感の味わいは確かに最高でした。もっとも、10：00に退勤して10：06の電車に乗って二限の授業へと急ぐのは少しドキドキしてしまいましたけど。

それからはサークルの話です。前期は何のサークルにも入っていないまま終了しましたけど、後期は学園祭を機に、コン研（コンピューター研究部）を見学することができて、「あっ、これ、いけるかもなぁ」と思って、そちらのイラスト班に入ることになりました。コン研の皆さんは大変親切で、素直に私のことを受け入れてくれました。またDiscordでの絵描きチャットもやって、夜遅くまでみんなで絵を描いて、色々交流することができてよかったです。そしておかげさまで、C97冬コミの会誌にも寄稿させていただけて、コミケでデビューすることもできました。

SUN, Renhui - Beijing Foreign Studies University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2018 - March 2019

自分の興味のある授業をとっていたので、毎日積極的に授業を受けていました。今まで知らなかったことを習ったり、深く考えなかったことを改めて考えたりして、充実した授業時間を過ごしました。大変勉強になりました。学習院大学で学んだ知識はこれからきっと役に立てると思います。

国際センターが留学生のために主催したバス旅行も日本文化体験週間もとても印象深かったです。日本の文化をより深く知ることができただけではなく、それをきっかけに友達もできました。とても素敵な思い出を作りました。

この一年間、バディといろいろなところに出かけたりしました。バディと一緒にいる時間は本当に最高だと思います。そして、こんなに良い留学生活の環境を作ってくださった国際センターに心から感謝しています。これから機会があったら、ぜひもう一度学習院大学に来たいと思います。

KIM CHAN - Inha University

Enrolled in Department of Political Studies, Faculty of Law
April 2023 - March 2024

저는 법학부 정치학과에서 1년간 공부했습니다. 정치학 수업을 통해 한국에서의 관점이 아닌 일본에서의 관점으로 세계 정치를 이해하며 다양한 관점에서 생각하는 힘을 기를 수 있었다고 생각합니다. 또한 일본 전통 예능 수업과 유학생 버스 여행 등을 통해 일본의 여러 전통문화를 직접 체험하는 귀중한 경험을 할 수 있었습니다. 학업 이외에는 국제센터의 버디 프로그램과 한국어 멘토 프로그램, 다문화 수업에 참여하여 한국에 관심있는 친구들을 사귈 수 있었고, 적응하는데 많은 도움을 받을 수 있었습니다. 또한 야구동아리, 배구동아리에도 참가하며 다양한 일본인 친구들을 사귀게 되었습니다. 인생에서 가장 많은 친구들을 사귀게 된 시기였다고 생각합니다. 또한 유학 기간 동안 도쿄의 유명 관광지 뿐만 아니라, 지바, 요코하마, 하코네, 가마쿠라, 교토, 후쿠시마, 야마나시 등 다양한 곳에 여행을 가며 즐거운 경험도 할 수 있었습니다. 처음에 일본에 왔을 때는 일본어를 잘 하지 못했고, 경어도 전혀 할 수 없었지만 1년간 친구들과 함께 지내면서, 이제는 전혀 문제없이 소통할 수 있게 되었습니다. 학습원대학에서의 1년은 인생에서 가장 즐거웠고 성장 할 수 있었던1년이었습니다.

私は法学部の政治学科で 1 年間勉強しました。 政治学の授業を通じて韓国での観点ではなく日本での観点で世界政治を理解し、多様な観点で考える力を育てることができたと思います。 また、日本の伝統芸能の授業と留学生バス旅行などを通じて日本の色んな伝統文化を直接体験する貴重な経験ができました。 学業以外には国際センターのBuddyプログラムと韓国語メンタープログラム、多文化授業に参加して韓国に関心のある友達を作ることができ、適応するのに多くの助けを受けることができました。 また野球サークル, バレーボールサークルにも参加して多様な日本人友達を付き合うようになりました。 人生で一番多くの友達と付き合うようになった時期だったと思います。 また留学期間中、東京の有名観光地だけでなく、千葉、横浜、箱根、鎌倉、京都、福島、山梨など様々な所に旅行を行って楽しい経験もすることができました。 最初に日本に来た時は日本語が下手で、敬語も全然できなかったけど1年間友達と一緒に過ごしながら、今は全然問題なく疎通できるようになりました。 学習院大学での1年は人生で一番楽しかったし、成長できた1年でした。

LEE SEONGEUN - Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
April 2023 - August 2023

가쿠슈인에서 보낸 한 학기는 일본을 체험할 수 있는 좋은 기회가 되었습니다. 일본어 실력을 향상하고 싶다면 학교 측에서 제공하는 프로그램을 활용하면 좋을 것 같습니다. 한국어를 일본인 학생에게 가르치는 프로그램도 있고, SA(Student Assistant)와 페어가 되어 자신이 부족하다고 느끼는 부분을 일본인 친구와 함께 공부할 수 있는 프로그램도 있어서 적극적으로 참여하시면 도움이 될 것입니다. 그리고 여행을 많이 다니는 것을 적극 추천합니다. 도쿄 안에서도 가볼 곳이 많고, 도쿄는 교통이 편리하여 가고자 하는 지역 대부분 신칸센 및 버스로 이동이 가능하기 때문에 여러 곳을 여행하며 좋은 추억을 많이 만들 수 있었습니다. 이외에도 서클에 가입하여 일본인 친구도 사귀고, 전공 수업에도 참여하는 등 가쿠슈인 대학에서 수학하는 동안 일본 문화 체험 및 다양한 경험을 할 수 있었습니다.

学習院で過ごした一学期間生活は日本を体験できるいい機会になりました。日本語実力を上達したいなら学校で提供するプログラムに参加することが役に立つと思います。韓国語を日本の友だちに教えるプログラムもありますし、 SA(Student Assistant)とペアになって自分が足りないと感じる部分を教えてもらうこともできます。そして、 色々な所に旅行に行くこともおすすめです。東京内にも見どころが十分ありますし、東京は交通が便利で新幹線やバスで千葉、名古屋、仙台など旅行して、思い出をつくることができました。これ以外にもサークルに入って、日本人の友達もつくったり、専攻授業にも参加することなど学習院大学で修学している間、日本文化体験を含め、多様な経験ができました。

NAM, Gyeongbin - Dongguk University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2022 - March 2023

交換留学に来て、一番良かったことは、日本語能力が確実に向上できたということです。会話はもともとある程度話せる状態でしたが、日本に住んでいる間、より安定的に定着したと思います。現地で日本文化を感じ、日本語能力を高めたい方には役に立つと思います。

留学生活で欠かせないことの１つは友達だと思います。ただ、一般的な授業で友達ができるのは難しいと思うので、日本人の友達が欲しい方は体育の授業を取ったり、サークルまたは部活に参加することをおすすめします。日本人の友達より接する機会が多いのは留学生です。外国人留学生という同じ立場で、住んでいるところも決まっていますし、留学生プログラムや日本語の授業などでよく会えるので、仲良くなれます。様々な国籍人が多いので、考え方も成長させることができます。

私は日本にいる間、行きたいところは全部行ってみようという思いで過ごしました。友達といろんな都会で旅行するのも良かったし、田舎や交通が劣悪なところを一人で旅行するのも幸せでした。旅行が好きだったらぜひ、後悔なく、行きたいところを思う存分楽しんでください。

JEONG, Wongyu - Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics
April 2022 - August 2022

わずか半年にすぎない短い時間でしたが、大学生として自分がもっとも成長できた時間だったと思います。

私はバディープログラムを通じて出会った友達、そしてサークル活動を通じて出会った友達と日本のあちこちを回りながら思い出を作ると同時に、交換留学生として日本での就職活動にも参加したので更に時間が早く過ぎてしまった気がします。日本での就職に成功したのも学習院大学という安定的な環境が私を支えてくれたからこそ可能なことだったと思います。

学習院大学で過ごした半年はとても貴重な経験であって、今まで日本生活をサポートしてくださった国際センターの皆様に感謝の言葉を申し上げたいと思います。元の生活に戻っても、遠くない未来にぜひ皆さんとまたお会いできたらいいなと思います！

CHO, Haeun - Dongguk University

Enrolled in Department of Law, Faculty of Law
April 2022 - March 2022

私は2022年1学期学習院大学の法学部法学科で協定大学に派遣されました。

今回、留学での私の目標は は1.日本で法学専攻を聞くこと.2.日本大学の部活動をしてみること.3.他国の交換学生たちと交流することでした. 忙しかったですが、努力した分だけ多くの経験ができる留学でした。

COVID-19の時期が終わり、交換留学が再開される最初の学期だったため、授業は遠隔授業と対面授業が適切に混ざっていました。 私は留学生用日本語語学授業2科目と一般教養1科目、法学科授業6科目を受講しました。 他の留学生より専攻をたくさん選択する方で、協定留学生は普通日本文学科を選択するので情報があまりありませんでした。 この部分は学校側で用意してくれる同じ学科のSAさんと個人的に入って部活動で大きな助けになったと思います。 私は会話と聞き取りにはあまり不便を感じませんでしたが、漢字を読んだり、書くのはぜんぜんできない状態でした。 なので、授業を聞くことは問題ありませんでしたが、試験の勉強にあって難しさを感じました。 他の語文系学科で、基本的に漢字を知っている方なら専攻を受けても大きな問題はないと思います。 専攻で使われる語彙は繰り返し学習をしていると自然に読めるのですが、勉強が必要だと思います。 難しいですが、漢字の実力が垂直的に成長することができたし、他の国で他の国の言語で本人の専攻を履修しながら他の見解を直接的に感じることができるという点が一番良かったです。

部活としては空手部、バンド部、カラオケサークルに入って活動しました 部活動は定期的に活動があるので加入できるか心配しましたが、一学期の留学生でも受け入れてくれる雰囲気でした。 いろいろ方法があると思いますが、日本人のお友達とたくさん付き合いたいなら部活が一番いいと思います。 様々な学科と様々な学年の学生が集まっていて、会話したり友達を作ることもでき、授業についてたくさん助けてもらえるということが付加的な長所だと思います。 活動自体でも変わった多様な経験ができて、部活動をしてみたことは本当に良い決定だったと思います。

学校では別に東京都内の様々な観光地やアクティビティを経験できるよう留学生プログラムを設けています。 普段日本に初めて来ると思ったより一人であっちこっち遊びに行くのが難しいです。 このプログラムを通じて行ってみる考えのない良い場所や、一人では体験できない良いアクティビティ(ガラス工芸、歌舞伎など)を主宰してくださって本当に楽しくて良い経験ができました。 また、学習院の定期留学生のような交換留学生と一緒に体験するので、いろんな国の友達と交流できる良い機会だったと思います。

PARK, Jongsun - University of Seoul

Enrolled in Department of Politics, Faculty of Law
September 2019 - March 2020

一学期の間、学習院大学で交換留学生としていました。日本の学生たちと様々な国から来た外国人学生たちとも交流することができ、留学生のための施設や行政などが整っているので、大きな不便なく生活することができました。 何度か旅行を通じて日本に来ましたが、やはり旅行を通じて感じることと生活しながら感じることには多くの差がありました。 韓国と似ていながらも違う部分が多いということが面白かったし、これからも忘れられない経験になると思います。 一学期の間、楽しい時間でした。

LEE, Jieun - Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Graduate Course of Japanese Language and Literature
September 2019 - March 2020

学習院大学で協定留学生として勉強して良かったです。最初は新しい環境が珍しくて、緊張しましたが、国際センターの皆さんと日本およびさまざまな国籍の学生たちのため、日本でのよい思い出を作ることができました。 そして、茶道や、文楽など日本の文化を直接に体験する、大切な機会もあって、とてもありがたかったです。 住まいは、アゼリアハウスという寮でしたが、平和台からも近いし、家賃も安いし、エアコンや洗濯機、冷蔵庫など、家具も全部完備されてあり、このようなところに住むことができて、とても安心しました。 日本語の授業は、とても役に立ちました。日本人っぽい日本語、日本人はこのような時にどのような表現を作るのかなど、日本人らしいの日本語の勉強をすることができて、とても満足でした。 先生はみんな優しいし、何度も説明してくださって、断念する人がいないように、教えてくださいました。 短かったですが、約半年ぐらい、学習院大学で勉強も、日本文化の体験も、友達との思い出も、全部うまくできて、嬉しいです。

CHOI, Yun Joo - Korea University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2019 - August 2019

短い期間だったけど、学習院大学への交換留学は人生で本当に大事な経験になると思います。私は韓国でも日本文学科ですが、日本語実力が未熟な状態だったので、とても心配しました。しかし一緒に交換留学にきた友達と学習院大学の韓国人留学生たちが授業や生活に関連した部分をたくさん知らせてくれて一学期を無事に終えることができました。正直に日本語よりは韓国語をもっとたくさん使って何ヶ月ぶりに実力が伸びないと思いましたが、授業資料を一生懸命勉強しながら漢字を本当にたくさん覚えました。またバーディーと一緒にお昼も食べて、同じ寮に住んだ台湾人の友達とも仲良くなったので青海や会話の勉強も自然にできました。そして、国際センターの職員たちもとても親切でよかったです。センターで一緒に歌舞伎を見に行ったことがおもしろかったです。一学期だけで帰ったら残念ですが、たびたび会いに来ます－！

KANG, Chanwoo - Kyeongbook University

Enrolled in Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics
April 2018 - March 2019

かつて日本に留学するのが憧れでした。そしてその時が来た時は本当に嬉しかったです。しかし、最初は思ったことと随分違って難しさも多かったです。いろんな理由があると思いますか、文化の違いからきた差も多かったでしょう。しかし、だからこそもっといろいろ学ばれたと思います。お互い分かり合うことは難しいが、話し合えば距離は何とかなります。今は韓国の友達ほどいっぱい友達ができました。あ、日本の文化祭は韓国の学校と比べないほど面白いです。この文化祭で友達のいろんなことを見るのは本当に素晴らしい経験なので楽しみにしてもいいです。

国際センターからのいろんなイベントもぜひ参加するのもおすすめ、実は私はここからのバス旅行で友達たくさん作りました。国際センターさん、ありがとうございました！！

SU, Yun Han - National Sun Yat-sen University

Enrolled in Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science
April 2022 - March 2023

私を助けてくれたすべての⼈々に感謝しています。

授課及び履修について⾃由度が⾼いので、興味のある科⽬を⾃由に選択することができます。

学習院⼤学国際センターでは、⼀般授課とは別に留学⽣のために⽇本⽂化に関連する活動を積極的に⾏っています。

学習院⼤学の1 年間で多くの⽇本⼈の友⼈や世界各国からの留学⽣ができた、初めて踏み出した海外で交換留学を選んでよかったと思います。

LIU, Jie - Soochow University

Enrolled in Department of Business Management, Faculty of Economics
September 2022 - March 2023

この学期の交換学生生活はもうすぐ終わりに迎える。海外で一人暮らしは初めてである。最初は色々なことを慣れる必要がありますが、日々な学びながら進歩していくことは非常に充実した生活になった。この学期に7つ授業を取って全面に自分の日本語能力が上げた。初めて日本語でレポートをする時は大変だったけど、今はあの時より簡単になった。友達と普通に喋れる。こういうのは昔の自分が想像できないことだった。自分の成長を感じて嬉しかった。この間にたくさん優しい先生とクラスメイトと出会えた。お礼の言葉もございません。旅行と日本文化を満喫した。いい思い出になって交換学生になったことは本当に良かったと思う。

HUANG, Ting-Yu - Tamkang University

Enrolled in Department of Management, Faculty of Economics
April 2019 - March 2020

私は2019年の４月から2020年の２月までの交換留学生。日本の生活は本当に台湾と大きい違いがあると思う。台湾にいた時に通学をしていなかった私は日本に来て初めて通学生活を体験した。日本の道路も台湾と比べたら安全だと思う、なぜならば日本人はあまりバイクを乗らないからだ。東京、こんなに賑やかで人口密度が高いどころでも、安心に道を歩くことができる。学習院大学は留学生に対しては優しい。まずは学習院を到着した後に四人の日本人生徒をバディにしてもらった。日本語がそんなに上手くない人でも、最初来た時に必要な入国手続き簡単で安心にできる。

私はせっかく日本に来たと思うから、自分の興味がある授業をたくさん取った。日本で中国語古文という授業で初めて知ったことは、日本人も漢文を勉強していることだ。日本語で漢文を読み、説明するのは初めて体験して、新鮮で楽しかった。わからないとか理解ができない時も、先生は優しく個別で教えていただき、学習院での思い出は一生忘れられないと思う。

CHAN, Hsinju - National Sun Yat-sen University

Enrolled in Department of English Language and Cultures, Faculty of Letters
September 2019 - March 2020

学習院大学に来て本当に良かったと思います。アカデミックアドバイザーのアリソン先生は私にとって学習院大学の恩師です。夏目先生と高見先生の授業も素晴らしかった。国際センター主催したバス旅行、留学フェア、日本文化体験、どれも面白かったです。最後、国際交流センターの職員たち感謝の気持ちを伝えたい。もし機会があれば、また日本に来て、他のクラスメイトに会ってみたいです。

LEE, Huan Jan - Soochow University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2018 - March 2019

学習院大学ではすべての授業を取ることが可能なので、私は留学生向けの日本語の授業だけではなくて、正規生向けの学部の授業も多く取りました。日本人と一緒に学部の授業を受けたり、発表したりすることによって、日本語の上達はもちろん、今まで知らなかった世界をたくさん知ることができました。授業以外に、私は部活（軽音楽部）にも入っていました。台湾の大学でも部活に入っていてバンドをやっていたのですが、初めて日本人の友達と一緒にバンドを組んだり、ライブを準備したりしてとても楽しかったです。この経験から、日台の部活とバンドの文化のいろいろな違いがわかりました。今回の交換留学は、日本の大学院を目指している私を大きく成長させました。日本に来る前に結構将来の不安にとらわれていましたが、今はこれからの目標を明らかにしたし、それに近づけるためにどんなものが必要なのか知ることができました。全体的に言えば、日本での初めての学生生活は学習院で過ごせたことをかなり嬉しく思いました。（学習院大学図書館は蔵書が豊富で、基本的に日本で発行された本がほぼすべて揃っているので、大学院の勉強をしている私にとってとても助かりました。）

RUAMWONG, Shama - Chulalongkorn University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2021 - August 2022

大変な一年でしたが、楽しい一年でもありました。

コロナ禍のため、秋の学期は残念ながらタイでオンライン授業をとることになっていました。しかし、その間は学習院大学のバディとZoomで通話をしていたので、コロナについての不安を分かち合えたり、日本語で楽しく話せました。

ここで勉強することの利点は、留学生が日本人向けの科目を大体自由に取れることだと思います。秋の学期で一番好きな授業は「多文化共修（A）：グローバル・キャンパス・アジア東京（GCA）」で、この授業はあるテーマについて日本人学生と留学生が共にグループワークをするという内容になっています。この授業を通じて、新しい日本人の友達ができ、日本語で意見交換ができました。先生方もとても優しいので、ぜひおすすめしたいです。

春の学期にはようやく日本に来ることができました。学習院大学のキャンパスはとてもきれいで、最初に来たときはちょうど桜が咲いていたので、ずっと印象に残っています。

最初の頃は手続きで忙しくしていたので、不安でした。しかし、国際センターは様々なアドバイスをくださいましたので、焦りすぎず手続きを終えることができました。

また、大学に来れた春の学期には、留学生同士の友達ができ、日本人の友達もさらにできました。日本人の友達はほとんど学生部のイベントで知り合いました。このように、大学の方も留学生と日本人学生が交流できる機会を増やしてくだされば嬉しいです。

もし、日本にまた来られるとしたら、学習院大学のお世話になった先生、国際センターのスタッフ、友達とまたお会いしたいです。

MONGKHONSI, Thitaporn - Chulalongkorn University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2019 - August 2020

学習院大学で留学した1年間はとても素晴らしい経験でした。この1年間日本人、留学生の新しい友達ができました。そして、先生方のおかげで、自分の日本語も成長していました。また、学習院大学には国際センターがあって、何が問題があったらすぐに連絡できます。 勉強だけではなく、学習院大学には様々なプログラム　ホストファミリー、茶道、書道などがあって、日本の伝統的も日本人の生活も勉強しました。この留学の間は忘れられない1年間になります。

Selena Yaera Yoo - Murdoch University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2022 - August 2023

My stay in Tokyo and at Gakushuin university was very eventful and enjoyable! I truly loved the experience and wish I could continue to study here. Throughout my exchange, I was able to really immerse myself in Japanese culture and university lifestyle, especially thanks to all the events the international centre arranged for the exchange students.

I was able to make lots of good memories, connections and friends while studying here, and some activities included going on a trip with my exchange classmates, exploring Tokyo with my new Japanese friends, and even going to Disneyland with my buddies.
There were times when classes were challenging, but the teachers were always very supportive, and I often learnt new things and developed new skills, so it was always fun. Also, I found 
the Student Assisted (SA) lessons extremely helpful and I believe my 
Japanese has improved quite a lot due to my SA partners. 

I am truly grateful for the teachers at Gakushuin University and the staff at the International Centre who were always happy to help, patient and understanding even when my Japanese was lacking. 
Thank you for an amazing exchange experience!

Greenwood, Luke - Murdoch University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2022 - March 2023

I decided in a few years ago now that I wanted to come to Gakushuin University on exchange but due to all the unfortunate realities of COVID, I was unable to. Over two years of waiting later and I was finally able to get here. To say I was more than ready to get stuck in would be an understatement to be sure.

My first couple weeks here were hectic, with plenty of paperwork and sorting out all the important stuff any exchange student must complete after coming here. Once I got all that out of the way I got to experience all the wonderful things Wakeijuku, Gakushuin and Mejiro-dai had to offer. I genuinely have loved living in this area and couldn't recommend it enough. The gorgeous greenery combined with the amazing access to plenty of local restaurants and important locations without being in a super busy area was truly a godsend.

There was of course some culture shock living in an all-boys dorm but once you get used to those sorts of things, you can truly sink into a way of life that I've enjoyed thoroughly over the past semester. The wonderful teachers and staff help smooth over the rest and I can say without a doubt, this was the cap to my time at University that I was hoping it would be!

JEFFERY, Samantha - University of New South Wales

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2022-August 2023

Studying at Gakushuin has been an absolute highlight of my degree! I have made so many wonderful friends and had such amazing experiences. Despite my Japanese being quite poor, everyone is so welcoming and friendly, and they have really made my semester unforgettable. Whilst the Japanese classes themselves are quite challenging for beginner levels, the experience has made my Japanese improve drastically with small sizes and very friendly teachers. Also, having the free tutoring sessions and a buddy system available were incredibly helpful ways to learn Japanese, make friends, and receive any general help. Plus, being in the International Social Sciences Department meant that everyone spoke excellent English and so making friends was not difficult. Being quite a small university and only having a few exchange students ensured that you felt really valued, especially by the International Centre who were immensely helpful and organised some cool events for us. I also joined the softball circle which was a fantastic way to make friends and enjoy different aspects of university life. Life in Tokyo itself is insanely fun, there is always so much to see and do! The university campus is quite small, but it is very green, has lots of great facilities, and is in a great, central location.

I would definitely recommend Gakushuin to anyone who wants to study abroad in Japan!

Rosow Jacob Paul - Utah Tech University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2023-August 2023

My time at Gakushuin has been such a wonderful experience. When I arrived in Japan, the Gakushuin orientation, staff, and buddy system were all great resources to prepare me for all the things I had to do. I am so grateful to the staff at the International Center for all the help and
guidance while at Gakushuin. I was in the International Social Sciences (ISS) department while at Gakushuin. I took classes to
improve my Japanese language ability, as well as classes in Japanese economic development and contemporary Japanese society, a multicultural co-learning class, a law class, and a volleyball class. Each of these classes were all very interesting. Taking classes to improve my Japanese really did improve my language ability. The teachers were so kind and supportive to us international students and made class a great learning experience. I also wanted to deepen my understanding of Japanese society, history, and culture and with my other classes, I achieved that goal. Learning Japan's history of economic development, about the laws, the contemporary society, and world issues relating to Japan, I can say I am much more educated and knowledgeable about these topics. Taking a volleyball class was also a great way to meet Japanese students in a fun and competitive environment. The events held at Gakushuin were also very fun. I really enjoyed the various "chat rooms" that were held to meet and talk with Japanese students. I really enjoyed meeting new people this way and I made mashing friendships. There was also a group trip to Chiba, a Kabuki event, Zazen event, and a few others. The events I participated in were really great! Learning about Zazen's history and purpose and then participating in Zazen was very interesting and I'm glad I was able to do it on campus. Gakushuin has a beautiful campus with new and historic buildings that are all stunning. I especially enjoyed relaxing in the nature areas of campus. I enjoyed meeting new friends at the
cafeteria, and spending a lot of time at the library studying and resting between classes. Spending this semester in Japan I have also been able to travel to various places in Japan. A few of my favorite places I went to were Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, Kanazawa, Yokohama, and many places near Tokyo. Seeing the differences between the mega city of Tokyo and the more cultural center of Kyoto was really amazing. Traveling around Japan, sightseeing, trying local cuisines, and exploring was definitely one of my favorite parts of this experience. Meeting so many new people and making friendships that will last a lifetime was also one of my favorite parts of studying abroad at Gakushuin. Thank you everyone that made this experience possible! It truly was the best time of my life!

LEGG, Jacob Logan - University of Virginia's College at Wise

Enrolled in Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science
September 2022-August 2023

I originally came to study at Gakushuin University in pursuit of possibly attending medical university later in Japan. I was technically enrolled in the Department of Natural Sciences, however most of my classes included Japanese language classes. My time at Gakushuin University is a time that I will never forget. The opportunity to come to Japan for the first time in my life was an amazing one. Not only was this my first time ever coming to Japan, but it also gave me my first opportunity to travel outside my own country for the very first time. I consider this experience and ability to experience another culture to be lifechanging. I have met people from Japan and other countries of the world, as well as made friends that I hope will last in the years to come.

This semester I was blown away by the teachers. I could not believe their willingness to try to help me whenever I struggled and the lengths that they would go for me to ensure that I was able to understand the material, felt comfortable, or that I was okay a few occasions whenever I became sick. Unfortunately I was only able to study here for 1 semester instead of a year as planned, but I am still very happy with the experience I have gained and the memories that I have made while here.

I truly appreciate Gakushuin University, my teachers, the international center, and the students/friends I met for making this semester an amazing one. I still feel that there is so much more I could do while in Japan but I don't have enough time. However, this opportunity to study at Gakushuin has confirmed that I will be happy to return one day to Japan and experience more that the amazing country has to offer.

LEWIS, PETER JOSEPH - Oxford Brookes University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2022-August 2023

My time in Gakushuin University has been a dream come true. Every day I was able to meet new people, exchange cultures and make new friends. The Gakushuin University International centre was always happy to help me whenever I had any questions or queries. The International centre also give international students the opportunity to present and explain about their home country. I had the opportunity to perform and play music such as Jazz, J-pop, afrobeat to everyone. I also had to opportunity to join many clubs such as the Flying House and Sky Sound Orchestra. I performed al over Japan and meet new musicians to perform with. My moment will be a moment that I will remember for a very long time!!

BENNETT, Grace - University of East Anglia

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2018-August 2019

My one-year exchange programme has been an experience I can truly say I will never forget.

I stayed at Azalea House in Heiwadai, Nerima, and it was a wonderful area to live in for exchange students, with easy access to downtown Tokyo, whilst also being in a quiet and relaxed suburb. The individual apartment-style accommodation is an excellent respite from the busy city, and the private kitchenette and bathroom, a rarity in student accommodation, were a huge bonus.

Through the International Centre there was a buddy programme set up, with exchange students being assigned one or two native Japanese students as buddies, to help them adjust and settle to life in Japan. My two buddies were very friendly and helpful, and they not only helped me with necessary procedures such as setting up bank accounts and paying rent, but also showed me around the city, and have continued to stay in touch.

I was also able to take classes held in Japanese alongside native students, and this was an amazing opportunity that really improved my Japanese skills as well as increasing my confidence in them. This is something that is obviously not on offer at home in the UK, so I am very glad I had the chance here at Gakushuin.

Above all, this year-long exchange was my first experience living alone, let alone overseas, and I feel I have learned a lot about myself, as well as improving my language skills, so I am very grateful to Gakushuin University for providing such a wonderful exchange experience.

HOLZINGER, Lukas - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Economics
September 2022 - March 2023

I had a great time spending my semester abroad at Gakushuin University! Due to the very well-structured and organized Japanese classes I could improve my language skill significantly and could connect to the local students very easily. The students were all very forthcoming & approachable so during my my 6-month stay I could make a lot of new friends. I also felt very appreciated by the professors of the ISS department which made the semester and the classes very enjoyable! All in all I would definitely recommend Gakushuin University if you want to make real connections with locals and want to have a great time at University!

SCHNEE, Yazzuag Anna - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2022 - March 2023

I had an amazing time during my exchange semester at Gakushuin University! As a student of English and economics, Japan wasn't the most obvious choice to spend my time abroad, but I was excited to learn about the culture and language of the country. Even though I barely spoke any Japanese at the time of my arrival, I quickly settled in Japan, thanks to the great help of the Gakushuin international office and the buddy system. All these people always tried their best to help me and answer all my questions. Moreover, the university organized several great events like Sumo, Bunraku or a trip to Hakone, which made me learn so much about Japan and its culture.

The classes I took were part of the ISS department and I enjoyed all of them, especially the one of Christopher Hammond on Theme-based Discussions. I will really miss the beautiful campus with its wide range of clubs and sports activities offered.

I wish all of you the best and am sad that I can't stay for another semester!

MAMAJ, Besilda - University of Bayreuth

Enrolled in Graduate School of Management
September 2019 - March 2020

Why Gakushuin?
Some universities are said to only prepare you for the JLPT and you end up speaking zero Japanese. At Gakushuin however, you can improve your speech very quickly if you engage with the Japanese students. This is due to two reasons:

• The number of students at Gakushuin is capped, so the overall feeling of Gakushuin is warmer and you can engage with the Japanese students not only at the International Centre but also during class.
• You get an academic advisor whom you can consult with any time and who is most likely very happy to invite you to his classes and seminars in which you can meet the local students.

The journey of learning Japanese is hard - but worth it!
During the time you get started and deal with it, you may feel overwhelmed, because you will be bombarded, but the impact on your language will show very soon. Moreover, since your classes will mostly be you and two to three other students, you will be very close to your professor and can therefore consult anytime with him. Grad School Students have research rooms for their major at their faculties, where you can retreat to study (even beyond library opening hours) or converse and consult with your peers.

Choose your classes according to your goals!
If I were to suggest you a master plan for improving your Japanese, I would advise you to attend 3 or 4 regular Japanese speaking classes of your major and supplement the remaining classes with language classes. The Japanese speaking classes equip you with new sets of vocabulary and let you become accustomed to native Japanese. These are the classes where you make the most progress.

LINK, Matthias - University of Bayreuth

Enrolled in Master's Course in Business Management
September 2018-August 2019

I came here as a Master exchange student in August 2018. It was my second exchange in Japan and I was very excited to take the challenge. My first impression of Gakushuin University was very positive. As a one-campus University, Gakushuin is very compact and you got a nice feeling entering the gate next to Mejiro station.

During my exchange year I took no Japanese language courses, so I had almost no contact with other exchange students. I mainly took mathematical oriented business and economics master courses, all in Japanese. Most of them were only with one up to five students. It was a very private teaching atmosphere and I could learn a lot.

After I arrived, I received a lot of help from very gentle professors. I received a key for the business and economics research lab and I could freely use a desk on my own.

PARK, Taemin - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Economics
September 2018-March 2019

I really had a lot of fun here at Gakushuin. I was impressed by the very clean and excellent library.

The staffs at the International Centre were also friendly and I always appreciated their help. I am sad that I can only stay here for one semester, but the time here at Gakushuin will remain as an unforgettable memory.

The food at the canteen was excellent and cheap, so I will definitely miss it when I go back to Germany.

MANIERE, Clara - Université Paris Cité

Enrolled in Department of History (Graduate)
April 2022-August 2020

I had a fantastic time at Gaskushuin University. I'm very thankful to all the people who made this one-semester exchange possible. Due to the Covid-19 situation, I couldn't stay at Gakushuin for two semesters as I planned, but I really enjoyed my time there. It's my second exchange in Japan, so my focus was to enjoy my daily life in Tokyo, as well as improve my keigo (敬語) skills, and I think I achieved these objectives. 

I took two Graduate History classes (European/Taiwan History) which were fully in Japanese (and with Chinese documents for the Taiwan History class). I sometimes had hard times understanding all the contents of the classes, but it was interesting. About the Japanese classes, I think I didn't learn new things that much, but it helped me to review my Japanese knowledge that I've learned so far. Also, it's been a long time since I had face-to-face classes, it was truly a relief to meet the professors and my comrades every week. Talking about the professors, they were very nice and accommodating. 

I couldn't make a lot of Japanese friends in Tokyo, but I got along well with the other exchange students. I had a lot of fun with them, and so I would like to thank them as well. 

As a conclusion, my exchange at Gakushuin was very profitable for me, especially on a personal level, and I would not forget about this one-semester experience. Thank you for everything!

LECKLER, Lara - University of Strasbourg

Enrolled in Department of History
September 2019-August 2020

I was in Gakushuin for one year but because of the Coronavirus, I was just on the campus for four months. It was short but very nice to meet student from Gakushuin. I also took a sport class and I think It was the best way to make friends. It is also very interesting to go sometimes at the department in Gakushuin of your mother language. In my case it was French. You can meet Japanese students who are interested by your language and you can talk with them. It is very helpful for you but for them too.

In General, I have a lot of good memories with students of Gakushuin. All were very nice and understanding.

I also travelled a lot in Japan. It was the best part of my year as an exchange student. I think if you go in Japan you must see other side not just Tokyo. So, I was in Kyoto, Osaka, Okinawa, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Kagoshima... and a lot of other places.

BOUDALI, Mona - Université Paris-Est Créteil

Enrolled in Department of Economics and Management
April 2020-August 2020

Going to Japan has always been my dream since my childhood and thanks to the partnership my university in France has with Gakushuin my dream came true. I arrived in Japan in march in the middle of the sanitary crisis, and it was a tough time and fortunately the International Center was always there to support me. Despite the fact that all of my courses were online I really enjoyed studying at Gakushuin. One of my goals going to Japan was also to learn Japanese and I had two fabulous teachers there, both had completely different approaches, I was able to work everyday talking and oral pronunciation with one and kanjis and vocabulary with another. I also took economic classes in english that were interesting.

I did not have the opportunity to study on the campus but I got there once for my courses completion and I was amazed by how gorgeous is the university. The old buildings are really beautiful and surrounded by a forest in which you can have some fresh air although you are in the middle of Tokyo.

Gakushuin's International Center also organized two online events, yosegi-zaiku and a tea ceremony. Although we weren't able to come to the campus because of the virus the administration managed to send to our home all of the equipment we needed to realize these workshops. We did it online with them and other students and I really keep good memories of these moments.

I am very thankful for everything the International Center and the University did for me, because they always have been there for administrative and personal purposes.

My exchange to Japan was definitely my best experience in life so far. I literally lived my best life ever in Tokyo and elsewhere when I had the opportunity to travel. Going to Japan for 6 months changed me, I learned a lot of things and met incredible people, I really wish to everybody to experience something like that in their life. Thank you Gakushuin for making this real.

CHODZKO, Marie - Universite Paris Denis Diderot

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
September 2019-August 2020

My year in Japan was marked by many events.
The University's staff provided us great help during the installation. We had the chance to be assisted all along.
Gakushuin University made many cultural activities we could join, like calligraphy, spectacle, and day trip.
Also the teachers are good and understand our situation very well. They are helping us willingly.
During the spring vacation I had the chance to travel in the Kansai and visited a lot of cultural location.
The second semester was hard, but the difficulties was all linked with the situation. The global pandemic was a subject on every lips, even more the Europe was infected.
The university did a great job managing the situation despite those unique circumstances.
I am grateful to Gakushuin University for welcomed me the year.

SEGAUD, Alban - University Paris Est

Enrolled in Department of French Cultural Studies
April 2019-August 2019

I was an exchange student at Gakushuin University from April to July 2019. It was the occasion to discover new subjects following a Japanese way. It also provided me the opportunity to meet lots of students from all over the world and especially Japanese people with whom we could talk in several languages (English, French, Japanese) about our different cultures. Through this semester I could go in main cities, on the mountains, at the ocean and in the countryside of Japan. All these places are quite near each other. That creates beautiful landscapes and allows short wonderful trips. About the courses, the Japanese language course was very interesting and helped me in order to understand and communicate better. I learned lots of useful contents such as daily expressions/patterns and kanjis. The student assistant is a good system that gives advice for learning. Other courses had quite interesting points of view sometimes different from French ones. Thank you for this unique semester I could do here.

VIDEAU, Alizee - Sciences Po Lyon

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences
September 2018-August 2019

It was my first time living abroad for this long, and living by myself without my family. It is hard to adapt to a new country with all the administrative formalities and everyday life issues to handle. But thankfully the International Centre was a real help. They were always helping us and answering our questions the best way. I never felt overwhelmed, thanks to them.

I could progress a lot in Japanese thanks to the friends I made at Gakushuin University, and thanks to the Japanese courses provided by the school. The Japanese lessons were sometimes hard but very instructive.
The fact that Gakushuin University's campus is located in the centre of Tokyo was also a real advantage. It was easy to go and visit the wonderful city of Tokyo after class or even during long lunch breaks.

My life in Japan was a real life changing and extremely positive experience. It gave me the will to continue my Japanese studies and to build my future accordingly to my love for this country. I am grateful for all the experiences I had (social, cultural, food...). I learned a lot about this country and about myself.

KAPFER, Pierre-Antoine - Université Paris-Diderot 7

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
September 2018-August 2019

学習院大学で過ごしていた一年間は素晴らしい経験でこれから一生幸せな思い出になると思います。母国の大学で日本の歴史を専門していて、そのため学習院大学の文学部史学科に配属されることになりました。史学科では留学生が少なくゼミに唯一の交換留学生だったため、最初に緊張することは当然ですが先生やゼミのクラスメイトの心遣いのおかげで結果的にこの一年間が授業のための宿題を済みながら母国のために書くべきだった修士論文も提出することができ、とてもスムーズに過ごしました。日本語での授業を履修することは最初に難しいですが、分からない点がある時に恥ずかしがらずすぐに先生やクラスメイトに聞き、日本語を急速に進歩できます。

学習院大学は東京の他の大学より留学生人数が小規模であるため、国際センターが留学生と熱心に個人的な対応を行なっていて、スタッフのみんなととてもお世話になりました。つづいて大学の位置に関しては山手線の目白駅は池袋からも新宿からも近くけて交通のために大変便利です。学内の図書館は二つに分かれて、両方に資料が多い。それに加えて学科によって研究室の隣に小さい図書室も設置しているので院生の方も学術的な環境に研究することができます。万が一他図書館の資料が必要であれば立教大学や早稲田大学が学習院から電車で一駅だけに位置付けられます。

Andrea Grainer - Paris Lodron University in Salzburg

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2023-March 2024

It can be quite overwhelming to move to a different country, even more so if you have never been there before. But my experience at Gakushuin University was very enjoyable and staying in Tokyo while attending Gakushuin University was a very meaningful time to me. Not only were the staff members of the International Centre constantly available for any kind of question and concern we foreign exchange students might have, but they also assisted our arrival in Japan by explaining all the necessary paperwork and steps. The teachers at Gakushuin University are similarily understanding and helpful. My Japanese still has a long way to improve and I was very afraid that because of my poor language skill, I would face a lot of difficulties. This worry was completely unnecessary as thanks to my patient teachers I was able to learn a lot in the Japanese Language classes. I also signed up for the Student Assistant program, so a Japanese student was assigned to help me with my Japanese homework and class preparations. The weekly meetings with my Student Assistant played a very important role in improving my Japanese.

Whenever there was something I was struggling with, I could rely on my buddies or the new friends I had made, that's why I never had to worry by myself. And not to mention that you can easily meet people and make new friends on campus. A lot of students are very eager to meet foreign exchange students and the International Centre is the perfect place to do so. I spent many of my lunchbreaks there, talking and laughing with foreign exchange students and Japanese students alike. Of course, it has become a very precious place to me.

I am also glad I was allowed to join a club. There are so many different kinds of clubs at Gakushuin University that it was difficult to chose but once I had decided, I was really happy to have entered without any difficulties. Together with the club members, I have made a lot of memories and I believe it was a great way to learn about the university life in Japan. I feel very lucky to have experienced that part of Japanese culture and would recommend anyone to try and join a club.

I have gained a lot from my months spent at Gakushuin University. Knowledge that will help me in my university studies back in my own country, a better understanding of the Japanese culture and language and new friends are only a few examples. I am very grateful that I was given the opportunity to study at Gakushuin University for the last semester!

DE MONTIS, Francesco - University of Turin

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2022 - August 2023

Being part of the Gakushuin University even for just six months was one of the best experiences in my life, I've had the chance to meet a lot of great people from all around the world that inspired me, amazing professors and new friends.

VIZZINI, Francesco José - University of Turin

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Leters
April 2022 - August 2022

I was a student at Gakushuin University from April 2022 to August 2022 in the department of Japanese language and literature . Getting straight to the point, this was one of the best experiences of my life, as after more than a year of waiting because of covid I was able to study Japanese in a Japanese university, something I had been waiting for since my first year at university.

Certainly, this kind of experience has served me well in improving my Japanese language skills: comparing the me who is writing this report with the me who just arrived at Narita airport in April 2022 I note with much enthusiasm that I have improved in both writing and speaking, and this is mainly because of the courses I took at the university.

On the other hand, I have met many new people and made as many new friends with whom I very much hope to meet in the future as well. 

All in all, the experience of studying Japanese at Gakushuin University was a unique experience that I will surely always carry within me and look back on with happiness and nostalgia whenever I think of Japan.

CAMOLETTO, Alberto - University of Turin

Enrolled in Graduate Course in Japanese Language and Literature
April 2022 - August 2022

Being in a prestigious university, like Gakushuin is, and have the chance to study for one semester in Tokyo is more than I had hoped for when I started studying Japanese.

I found two main difficulties during my mobility: filling out the documents before coming to Japan and the very first few days in Tokyo, which have been a bit disorientating because of the great number of things I was not used to. I suggest not to worry too much about these things, however: the International Centre and the many people you are going to meet here are going to help you.

I stayed at Azalea House, which by underground is about 20 minutes away from both the university and a lively centre like Ikebukuro. Heiwadai, where Azalea House is located, is a very nice and safe area. Also, each room has both a private bathroom and a kitchen, so you can enjoy having a space that's your own while staying here, which was quite important to me. Don't worry about water, gas and electricity bills, since they're easy to pay (you can do it in every convenience store) and not very expensive.

I am satisfied with the level of the courses here at Gakushuin. I took mainly courses offered in Japanese and that helped me much to improve my Japanese level. Attending courses offered in Japanese also gave me the opportunity to easily get in touch with many Japanese people.

Although I had been studying Japanese for a few years when I came here, some courses were sometimes hard to understand because of the language: the number of papers and documents to study is not very high, however, so it's easy to keep up with the lessons by checking at home any unclear point.

All the professors have been very kind throughout the whole semester. They are willing to explain things once again if not clear and always there to give advice about their course. If you have any kind of problem with their lessons, don't hesitate to ask for their help!

A point I was a bit worried about before coming to Japan was socialisation: I had heard that approaching Japanese people may be sometimes hard. That was not my case, quite the opposite, actually: many times, people just started talking to me curious to know where I came from and why I was studying at Gakushuin. The fact I could reply in Japanese probably helped (almost everybody tried straight away to speak to me in Japanese), but this happened many times: I also made some friends this way!

Another important way of getting to know Japanese people is through university clubs and circles: check the university website (/active/club/) to find out if there's anything you could be interested about, as I'm sure it is a great opportunity to deepen the understanding of Japanese culture, as well.

The International Centre at Gakushuin also organises interesting events for exchange students: we went to Kawagoe to blow glass, visited the fish market, watched kabuki, and made traditional sweets in Ueno. I definitely recommend taking part in these activities, as they are important to bond with other students from all over the world!

Being alone in Japan may be hard from time to time, but don't let this dissuade you, as with the help of the people around you and a little patience everything is going to turn out for the best.

STIVE, Lisa - University of Turin

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature
September 2019 - August 2020

I spent a year studing at Gakushuin University (from September 2019 to July 2020) as an exchange student from my own University (University of Turin, Italy). We don't have many campuses like Gakushuin in Italy, so I was very surprised to find out a huge campus with many facilities and a lot of greenery in the middle of Tokyo.

Getting through the paperwork felt a bit daunting at first, but thanks to the kind people at the International Office I had help whenever I needed it, and if there was something I didn't understand they would help. There is also a lively community of international students, and you can easily get to know a lot of friendly people, both Japanese and foreign. There are three levels of Japanese language classes for exchange students, and since I didn't feel too confident in my language skills, Gakushuin kindly allowed me to attend classes from two levels at once: professors were friendly and openly encouraged conversation and mingling between the international students in the class. Even when I had a question about grammar or vocabulary, they would take time to explain it to me so that I could understand.

Unfortunately, the latter half of my study period was severely impacted by the Covid19 pandemic, and it forced Gakushuin and all of us students to change our habits and learning ways. Much like other Universities in Tokyo, we couldn't attend Gakushuin in person but we had to resort to online classes from home. It was very stressful for me but I'm very grateful for my professors, who undertook this new challenge and did their best to give us learning materials so we could still do our best during the trying times. It is incredibly regrettable how this pandemic affected our lives in such a way we could have never imagined, but I look back fondly on my experience in Tokyo and I look forward to coming back and do more research at Gakushuin in the future!

MARTORELLI, Roberta - University of Naples "L'Orientale"

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature
September 2019 - August 2020

My experience here at Gakushuin University was amazing. The staff members of the International center were very helpful and assisted us greatly especially during the pandemic.

What I Ioved about this University were the several activities that they provided for exchange students, like trips and cultural experiences (such as Tea ceremony and Yosegi-zaiku demonstrations). Moreover, they provided us with online meetings as well, when we couldn't meet in person due to the spread of the virus.

I also had the opportunity to spend one week with a Japanese family in Chiba, thanks to a program organized by the International center. It was a wonderful experience and I really recommend exchange students to join the program.

Another great thing of Gakushuin University is that exchange students have the opportunity to attend classes outside the Japanese language courses. Having the chance to join Japanese literature and history classes was very stimulating, and it gave me an over-all view of the Japanese Universities system.
Further, the campus is beautiful and in general, the atmosphere is very friendly and welcoming.

RICCÒ, Lorenzo Sean - University of Turin

Enrolled in Master's Course in Japanese Language and Literature
September 2019 - March 2020

I enjoyed my stay at Gakushuin very much. It helped me improve my Japanese language skills and get a grip of how daily life is like in Japan. My main goal when I applied to this kind of experience was to improve my language skills and that is why I mainly enrolled only in language courses. The main thing that I believe could be improved is the number of Japanese language courses' levels. In my opinion, the gap between 中級 (which I found quite easy overall) and 上級 (which sometimes was even overwhelming) is definitely too big. I really enjoyed Kobayashi Sensei's and Oe Sensei's classes and I really am grateful for being able to be taught by them. If more levels were introduced, I believe that could really help students who do not fully belong to one of the 3 current levels. Apart from this small thing, I believe the experience at Gakushuin was amazing and I would definitely like to do another experience like this in the future.

GUARINO, Carla - University of Naples "L'Orientale"

Enrolled in Master's Course in Japanese Language and Literature
September 2018-August 2019

Studying at Gakushuin University was an amazing experience. After this year not only I improved but also I met new people and new cultures. This experience changed my life: studying and sharing time with my new friends opened my mind on new ways of thinking. The trip, the events and the chat rooms organized by the Kokusai Centre helped me to meet new Japanese people and to improve my Japanese skills. This was a year of changes that I will never forget.