留学生からのメッセージGlobal

WONG, Yu Sum - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024 - August 2025

学習院大学で留学した１年間は、まるで夢のようでした。気がつけば、留学生活の終わりを迎えます。この1年間の日本生活は非常に充実したものでした。毎週日本語の授業で言語を学んで、外国人留学生と話し合い、他の国の文化を知って、自分の視野を広げたと感じました。11月にサークルに入り、趣味が合う人とたくさん出会えました。一緒にバンドをやったり、お祭りに行ったり、すごく楽しかったです。短い間ですが、皆と一緒に作った思い出はこれからもずっと大切にしていきたいと思っています。

この一年に対する最初の願いは、心の底から笑えるような一年になることでした。そして今、振り返ってみると、その願いは確かに叶えられたと感じています。かけがえのない出会いや経験に恵まれ、本当に多くの場面で心から笑うことができました。この一年の経験が人生の糧になることを願っています。

LEE, Tsz Hei  - Chinese University of Hong Kong

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024 - August 2025

I had a very good time at Gakushuin University here because I met tons of students from different backgrounds which also changed my personality a lot. Now I am willing to meet and have a conversation with people even though it's the first time we meet. For me it's a really huge difference from before I came here. All these changes have to be thanks to the international centre. It provides a nice space for us exchange students to communicate, some Japanese students will also join. We chat sometimes so it would be a good chance for us to meet Japanese. Besides, I can train my English speaking skills with them. In fact even though we do have language barriers they are still willing to comprehend your point with all effort. It became a comfortable room for me to practice english. Staff there also carefully treat our difficulties or problems we are facing, which is so easy and relieving. Thanks for all the staff's effort!

PANG, Lee Wan - Chinese University of Hong Kong

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

聞き慣れた蝉の声が再び頭をよぎり、また夏がやってきます。気がつけば、留学の1年も終わろうとしています。日本での留学1年間は、私にとって非常に貴重な経験でした。最初に感じたのは、文化的な違いの大きさでした。日本の礼儀作法やコミュニケーションのスタイルは、私の母国とは大きく異なり、適応するのに時間がかかりました。しかし、その間、周りの日本人の友人たちは、神社でのお参りの作法や、レストランでの食事時の言葉遣いなど、日本の日常マナーを丁寧に教えてくれました。彼らは私を多くの知らない場所にも連れて行ってくれ、この旅で出会った友人たちには心から感謝しています。

また、日本の大学での授業は非常に充実していました。国際社会学科の授業でも、他の政治学の授業でも、日本人や他国の留学生と意見を交換することで、異なる文化的背景を持つ人々が日本文化について異なる考えを持っていることを理解できました。特に印象に残っているのは、Japan Studiesの授業で、自国での日本文化への関心や寿司の作り方を共有したことです。日本についてより深く学ぶだけでなく、さまざまな興味深い意見を知ることができたので、卒業論文の情報収集に非常に役立つと思います。

この1年間で観光地を訪れる機会も多く、最も印象的だったのは岐阜県の白川郷でした。冬に大雪が降り、雪が家々の三角屋根を覆い、まるでおとぎ話の一場面のようでした。この1年間で日本のさまざまな場所を訪れ、日本の自然の美しさに深く魅了されました。また機会があれば、ぜひ再訪したいと思います。

総じて、日本での留学生活は、私にとって自己成長の機会であり、今後の人生においても大きな財産となるでしょう。

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 Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
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。

Lee, Weonhee - University of Seoul

Enrolled in Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Letters
April 2025 - August 2025

1.　はじめに

私は以前から日本に強い関心を持っており、長年日本語を学びながら、日本社会や文化をより深く理解したいと考えていました。その思いから今回の交換留学プログラムに参加することを決めました。特に学習院大学は池袋と新宿の中間に位置しており、東京の中心地にアクセスしやすいという点で非常に魅力的でした。

また、韓国で日本人留学生と交流した経験から、日本人特有の親切さや人との関わり方に興味を持ち、それを実際に日本で体感してみたいという思いもありました。

2．学校生活

初めての印象

初めてキャンパスを訪れた際には、サークルの勧誘活動がとても活発で、満開の桜があちこちに咲いていて本当に美しいと感じました。図書館はこぢんまりとしていて可愛らしい印象で、韓国の大学と比べると敷地は広くないものの、落ち着いた雰囲気が印象的でした。

特に感動したのは、国際交流のための専用ラウンジが設けられていたことです。母校にはそのような空間がなく、交換留学生同士が自然に交流する機会が限られていましたが、学習院大学では海外に関心のある学生たちが気軽に集まれる環境が整っており、とてもありがたかったです。

バディプログラム

私には2人の日本人バディが割り当てられました。この制度は「おもてなし」の精神をよく表していると感じました。一人は落ち着いた性格で、もう一人はとてもエネルギッシュなタイプでしたが、二人ともとても親切で積極的にサポートしてくれました。

ただ一つ残念だったのは、このバディ制度が交換留学生同士の横のつながりをつくる機会を減らしてしまう側面があったことです。日本人1人に対して複数の交換留学生という構成であれば、互いに関係が広がりやすく、自然に友人の輪も広がったのではないかと思います。それでも、2人のバディが常にサポートしてくれるという安心感は大きく、非常に心強かったです。

授業

日本の大学では、すべての授業が同じ時間に始まり同じ時間に終わる点が印象的でした。授業の開始と終了時にはチャイムが鳴り、まるで高校に戻ったような感覚でした。

私は1学期間のみの履修だったため、通年授業は受講できず、選べる授業は限られていました。そのため、単位取得よりも日本語運用力の向上に重点を置くことにしました。

履修した科目は、日本語上級クラス3つ、心理学、World and Japan、プログラミングなどです。

• 日本語の授業は、読む・話す・書くスキルをバランス良く鍛える体系的な内容で、非常に実用的でした。同じ授業を受けた交換留学生たちとは日本語で自然に会話をするようになり、語学だけでなく交流の面でも大きなプラスになりました。
• 心理学の授業は1年生向けの内容で比較的やさしかったですが、人の心理を細かく表現する日本語表現を学ぶにはとても良い機会でした。
• プログラミングの授業では、初歩的なPythonの内容を扱っており、IT関連の実用的な用語を知ることができました。教科書には載っていない言葉にも多く触れられて、興味深かったです。
• World and Japanは全編英語で行われ、専門用語や難しい語彙が多く苦労もありましたが、日本を中心とした国際的な視点や、他国の学生たちの多様な意見を聞くことができ、想像以上に有意義な授業でした。特に日韓関係に関するトピックでは、日本人学生の率直な考えを聞くことができた点が印象に残っています。

３.　留学を通して学んだこと

4ヶ月という短い期間ではありましたが、日本という国を様々な角度から体験し、多くの気づきを得ることができました。日本の大学は韓国の大学と比べて全体的に余裕があり、学生生活の満足度も高いように感じました。また、就職活動における景気の良さが学生たちの生活に余裕をもたらしていることを間近で見て、羨ましく思うこともありました。

もともと日本での就職も視野に入れていた私は、今回の留学を通して、自分がこの地で暮らしていけるかどうかを実際に肌で感じ、ある程度の判断ができたと感じています。

４.　おわりに

大学4年生の最後の学期に急遽決まった交換留学でしたが、結果としては全く後悔のない、忘れられない経験となりました。春から夏にかけての温かな季節の中で、多くの友人や思い出を作れたことに感謝しています。そして、この日本での経験が、今後の私の人生や価値観に大きな影響を与えると確信しています。

最後に、皆さんのこれからの人生にも素敵な出会いと幸せが訪れることを心から願っています。

KIM, Nahyeon - Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2025 - August 2025

One semester at Gakushuin was a valuable experience that allowed me to learn more about myself, meet new people, and try things I had never done before. Using a language other than my own and connecting with people from different cultural backgrounds broadened my perspective and greatly contributed to my personal growth.

Thanks to the programs offered by the International Centre, I had many opportunities to interact with other students, which made my time in Japan even more meaningful. The relatively small number of exchange students at Gakushuin made it easier to form close and lasting friendships. I met some truly amazing people, and I'll always treasure the memories I made here.

If I have one regret, it's that I could only stay for one semester. I'm heading to another country for my next exchange, but if that weren't the case, I would have definitely chosen to stay at Gakushuin for the full year. The more time I spent in Tokyo and at Gakushuin, the more I found myself wishing I could remain longer. So if you're still deciding how long to stay at Gakushuin, I strongly recommend choosing the full year.

Lastly, I want to sincerely thank the Gakushuin International Centre for their warm and continuous support throughout my stay. Thanks to them, living in Japan was never difficult or overwhelming.

LEE, Kyungeun - University of Seoul 

Enrolled in Department of  Political Studies, Faculty of Political Studies
Septermber 2024 - March 2025

가쿠슈인에서의 한 학기는 저에게 있어서 잊지 못할 순간이었습니다. 본교에서 혼자 파견되어 처음에 많은 걱정을 했습니다. 하지만 걱정이 무색하게 쉽게 적응할 수 있었습니다. 국제센터에 학생들이 자유롭게 이야기하고 밥을 먹을 수 있는 공간이 있어서, 일본인 학생 뿐만 아니라 다른 국적의 교환학생 친구들과도 교류할 수 있었습니다. 또한 버스트립을 갔었는데, 일본식 종이를 만들어보는 체험도 하며 일본의 문화체험을 할 수 있는 소중한 경험을 할 수 있었습니다. 그리고 국제센터에서 제공되는 일본 문화수업도 인상적이었습니다. 매 회차마다 일본의 문화에 대해 수업을 하고 직접 체험해 볼 수 있는 수업이어 교환학생에게 더할 나위 없는 좋은 수업인 것 같습니다.

일본 학생과 교류할 수 있는 소규모의 연습 수업을 들었습니다. 일본 학생들의 생각을 들어보고 대화를 나누면서 시야를 넓힐 수 있는 좋은 기회였습니다. 처음에 일본에 왔을 때는 일본어에 대해 자신감이 없었습니다. 하지만 가쿠슈인에서 일본어로 수업을 듣고, 배우고, 말하면서 일본어 실력 면에서 많은 자신감이 생겼습니다. 뿐만 아니라 개인적으로 세상을 바라보는 시각이 넓어진 것 같아 내면적인 성장을 많이 일궈냈던 것 같습니다.

My semester at Gakushuin University was an unforgettable experience. As the only student dispatched from my home university, I initially had many concerns. However, I was able to adapt surprisingly quickly. The International Center provided a space where students could freely interact and share meals, allowing me to connect not only with Japanese students but also with exchange students from various countries.

I also participated in a bus trip, during which I had the unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture by making traditional Japanese paper. Additionally, the Japanese culture classes offered by the International Center were particularly impressive. Each session covered aspects of Japanese culture and included hands-on activities, making it an excellent program for exchange students.

I attended small group practice classes where I could interact with Japanese students. These classes allowed me to hear their perspectives and engage in meaningful conversations, broadening my horizons. When I first arrived in Japan, I lacked confidence in my Japanese language skills. However, through attending classes in Japanese, learning, and actively speaking, I gained significant confidence in my abilities. Moreover, I feel that this experience helped me grow internally, as it expanded my worldview and perspective on life.

KIM,Minuk- Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
Septermber 2024 - March 2025

가쿠슈인 대학에서의 생활은 교환유학이라는 점을 감안해서도 한국에서의 대학생활보다 훨씬 편했습니다. 힘들게 공부하지 않았다는 느낌이 들기도 하고요. 그러다 보니, 학기 중에도 학교 생활만 하기 보다는 동아리나 서클 활동에도 크게 제약이 없고, 여행을 가기에도 알맞았습니다. 가쿠슈인 대학에서는 경제학과 정치학 관련 전공 수업과 일본어 수업, 여러 교양 수업들을 수강했습니다.
유학의 충격은 상당했습니다. 매일매일이 새로운 만남과 새로운 장소, 새로운 경험이었습니다. 함께 지낸 일본인 친구들을 비롯해서 대만과 홍콩, 서양 여러 국가의 학생들과 자유롭게 대화를 나눌 수 있었습니다. 특히 국제센터라는 장소는 우리가 더욱 친해질 수 있게 도움을 주었던 것 같습니다. 짧았던 6개월이었지만 앞으로 살아가는 데 있어서 절대로 잊지못할 기억이 될 것 같습니다.

学習院大学での生活は、交換留学という点を考慮しても、韓国での大学生活よりもずっと楽でした。あまり一生懸命勉強したという感じはしないほどです。そのおかげで、学期中でも学校生活だけにとらわれず、サークル活動やクラブ活動に参加することに大きな制約がなく、旅行に出かけるのにも適していました。
学習院大学では、経済学や政治学に関する専攻科目、日本語の授業、そしてさまざまな教養科目を履修しました。留学で受けた衝撃は相当なものでした。毎日が新しい出会い、新しい場所、新しい経験の連続でした。一緒に過ごした日本人の友人をはじめ、台湾や香港、西洋諸国の学生たちとも自由に会話を楽しむことができました。特に「国際センター」という場所は、私たちがさらに親しくなるのを助けてくれたと思います。短い6か月間でしたが、これからの人生で絶対に忘れることのない思い出になると思います。

KIM,Sangjoon-Dongguk University

Enrolled in Department of   Management, Faculty of Economics
Septermber 2024 - March 2025

学習院大学の経営学科の交換留学生として一学期の間色んな経験をしました。 ゼミにも入って日本のグループ活動と発表を経験したり、経営学科の講義を通じて日本の企業と経済状況についても勉強することができました。 また一学期という短い期間ですが、日本の夏祭り、ハロウィン、学祭、クリスマス、新年などいろんなイベントを経験することができました。 これだけではありません。 学校の授業を通じてテニスを学び、新しいスポーツができるようになりました。また、サークルをきっかけにクライミングという運動を始めて日本で新しい趣味を持つようになりました。 日本でバイトも経験できました。バイトをしながら私の進路と興味に関する経験と知識を積んできました。 このように日本の生活に適応することができたのは学校の色んな制度が役に立ちました。 Buddyたちと交流しながら学校の授業とシステムに早く適応することができました。 また、国際センターの存在は留学生にとって本当に多くの助けになる空間でした。 学校の在学生たちと交流するイベントはもちろん、多様な日本文化体験まで経験することができました。

GWON, Sihyeon- Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science
Septermber 2024 - March 2025

 最初、協定留学することについて本当に迷いました。日本語がうまくなかったのもあったし、日本文化もよく知らなかったから私が日本でよく適応できるかなと思いました。でも、ここまで来られるようにしてくれたのは

「人生で海外で生活してみるのは果たしてどれくらいあるだろうか」こういう考えでした。それで一旦挑戦でもしてみました。あたりまえですけど、日本への留学は決して簡単なことではありあせんでした。私より日本語が上手な人は多かったです。それで1次面接には落ちました。それにもかかわらず一生懸命日本語を勉強して結局追加合格しました。日本に来た後、最初は「美味しいですね」とか「学校が大きいですね」ほどしか話せなかったような実力でしたけど、学校の友達は優しく日本語を教えてくれました。これは今までもずっとありがたく思っています。

KIM, Yongmin- Dongguk University

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - August 2024

가쿠슈인에서 보낸 한학기는 저의 인생에 있어 하나의 커다란 자극이 되었다고 생각합니다. 저는 근대 일본의 정치사상에 대한 연구를 희망하며, 관련된 수학환경의 조사 및 사전 적응을 위해 교환학생을 택하였습니다. 이에 문학부 사학과에서 수학하는 한편, 관련된 수업이 다수 개설된 법학부 정치학과의 수업도 적극적으로 수강하였습니다. 이때, 이례적으로 모든 수업을 전공전문과목 혹은 대학원 수업으로 채우는 모험을 시도하였고, 때문에 밤을 지새우며 발표 논문을 작성하거나 논술 시험을 준비하는 등 매우 바쁜 하루하루를 보냈습니다. 이러한 모험은 때로는 체력적 한계에 직면하게 하여 상당한 고통을 자신에게 선사하기도 하였지만, 양질의 수업, 열정적인 교수 및 강사 분들, 그리고 세련되고 깨끗한 수학의 환경덕에 목표로 한 바를 이루는 한편, 미래의 진학에 대한 확실한 기준을 세울 수 있었다고 생각합니다.

이렇게 수학에 집중한 한편, 최대한 여러 곳을 방문할 수 있도록 노력도 하였습니다. 가쿠슈인이 위치한 메지로는 이케부쿠로를 비롯하여 신주쿠와 시부야 등 도쿄의 주요 지역과의 접근성이 매우 좋은 곳입니다. 이에 방과 후 여러 지역을 다니면서 견문을 넓히고, 특히 여행이었으면 절대 오지 않았을 법한 조용한 동네 탐방 등을 자주 즐겼습니다. 이와 더불어 다른 지역으로의 여행도 적극적으로 진행하여 도쿄 근교부터 시작해 간사이와 오키나와 및 홋카이도 등 여러 지역을 방문했는데, 이 과정에서 대학생의 신분을 한껏 활용하여 여러 혜택을 누리시기를 당부하는 바입니다.

가쿠슈인이 무엇보다 좋았던 것은 유학생에 대한 서포트가 활발히 이루어지는 것입니다. 국제센터의 직원분들께서는 항상 친절하게 문의 사항에 응대하여 주시며, 유학생들을 위한 여러 행사들을 기획하고 이를 적극적으로 학생들에게 어필하여 유학 생활이 풍족할 수 있게 항상 서포트 해 주십니다. 비록 저는 일정상 교외에서 이루어지는 행사들에 참여하지는 못했습니다만, 이러한 경험은 일본을 본격적으로 즐길 수 있는 하나의 계기가 되리라 사료됩니다. 더불어 외국인 학생과의 교류를 원하는 여러 학생들이 국제센터에 방문하여 항상 인산인해를 이루고, 먼저 말을 걸며 관심을 가져준 덕분에 자칫하면 외로울 수 있던 유학생활이 웃음으로 가득할 수 있었다고 생각합니다.

길다면 길고, 짧다면 짧을 반년의 수학이었습니다만, 가쿠슈인에서의 수학을 결심했음에 일말의 후회도 없거니와, 오히려 가쿠슈인이어서 정말 다행이었다고 생각합니다. 모쪼록 이후에 올 한국인 교환학생 여러분들도 가쿠슈인에서의 수학을 통해 다양한 것들을 경험하기를 기원하는 바입니다.

学習院で過ごした一学期は私の人生において一つの大きな刺激になったと思います。 私は近代日本の政治思想に対する研究を希望し、関連する修学環境の調査および事前適応のために交換学生を選びました。そこで文学部史学科で修学する一方、関連した授業が多数開設された法学部政治学科の授業も積極的に受講しました。この際、異例的にすべての授業を専攻専門科目あるいは大学院授業で満たす冒険を試み、そのために夜を徹して発表論文を作成したり論述試験を準備するなど非常に忙しい毎日を過ごしました。このような冒険は時には体力的限界に直面させて相当な苦痛を自分に与えたりもしましたが、良質の授業、情熱的な教授および講師の方々、そして洗練されてきれいな修学の環境のおかげで目標にしたことを成し遂げる一方、未来の進学に対する確実な基準を立てることができたと思います。

このように修学に集中した一方で、最大限いろんな所を訪問できるように努力もしました。学習院がある目白は池袋をはじめ新宿や渋谷など東京の主要地域とのアクセスがとても良いところです。そこで、放課後、色々な地域を回りながら見聞を広げ、特に旅行だったら絶対に来なかったような静かな町内探訪などをよく楽しみました。これと共に他の地域への旅行も積極的に進行して東京近郊から始めて関西と沖縄及び北海道など色んな地域を訪問しましたがこの過程で大学生の身分を精一杯活用して色々な恩恵を受けることをお願いする次第です。

学習院が何より良かったのは、留学生へのサポートが盛んに行われることです。国際センターの職員の方々はいつも親切に問い合わせ事項に応対して下さり、留学生たちのための色々な行事を企画してこれを積極的に学生たちにアピールして留学生活が豊かになるように常にサポートしてくださいます。残念ながら私は日程上校外で行われるイベントに参加することはできなかったが,このような経験は日本を本格的に楽しむことができる一つの契機になると思われます。また、外国人学生との交流を望む多くの学生たちが国際センターを訪問していつも人だかりを成し、先に声をかけて関心を持ってくれたおかげでややもすればさびしかった留学生活が笑いでいっぱいになったと思います。

長いといえば長い、短いといえば短い半年の修学でしたが、学習院での修学を決心したので一抹の後悔もなく、むしろ学習院で本当に良かったと思います。今後、韓国人交換学生の皆さんも学習院での修学を通じて様々なことを経験することをお祈りします。

HA, Seongsik- Kyungpook National University

Enrolled in Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science
April 2024 - August 2024

우선 제가 일본 교환학생을 왔던 가장 큰 목표 중 하나가 해외 친구 만들기와 일본어 실력 키우기 였습니다. 그 외 다양한 경험들을 할 수 있어서 엄청 좋았지만, 제가 처음 목표했던 것들을 이루고 돌아가게 되어서 엄청 기쁩니다! 서울에 비해 비교적 유명하지 않은 대구를 많이 알리고 소개할 수 있어서도 좋았고, 일본의 다양한 문화를 접하고 일본 친구들과 놀 수 있는 기회가 엄청 많았던 것이 제 인생에 큰 도움이 될 것 같습니다! 처음에는 부족한 일본어 실력으로 일본에 왔지만, 약 4개월 간 많은 친구들과 이야기 나누고 놀고 먹으며 제 일본어 실력은 제가 봐도 다를 정도로 눈에 띄게 성장했고 이를 바탕으로 앞으로도 쭉 공부해서 앞으로 언젠가 원어민 같은 일본어를 구사할 수 있도록 하겠습니다..!

自分が立てた目標を全部達成したこと（日本語、友達つくり）が一番嬉しかったです。まだ足りない日本語なんですけど、今からもずっと勉強していつかは日本人みたいな日本語を使ってみたいです。

本当に本当に楽しかったです。ありがとうございました。

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！！

CHAN, Chia Yu  -  Soochow University

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
April 2025 - August 2025

学習院大学での生活はとても充実していました。日本語の授業を通して日本語能力が大きく向上し、日本語以外の授業では日本社会や文化についてもより深く理解することができました。留学中には、日本人と他国からの留学生とも親しくなり、人生で初めて外国の友人ができました。嬉しい気持ちと同時に、言語の壁という新たな課題も感じましたが、その経験を通して英語、いわゆる言語の重要性を強く実感しました。

学業のほかにも、空いた時間を利用して東京やその近郊に旅行に出かけました。例えば秩父や河口湖などを訪れ、大自然に触れることで日々の悩みを一時的に忘れることができました。また、私は日本のACG文化が大好きなので、関連するイベントに参加したり、ACG関連のショップを訪れたりすることもありました。歴史を感じさせる数多くの史跡や神社にも足を運び、日本の伝統文化や歴史について学ぶことができました。

半年間という短い留学生活でしたが、私にとって人生で最も充実した半年間となりました。台湾では得られない多くの経験を通して、大きな成長を実感しました。今後はこの貴重な経験を次の留学生の後輩たちに伝えたいと思うと同時に、自分の将来にもぜひ活かしていきたいです。

LIU, Cheng Chin - Tamkang University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - March 2025

光陰矢の如し、留学生活も間も無く終わりを迎える。私にとって、学習院大学は名の通りで、「学習」に関するあらゆる必要なものを提供してくれた。学生に対する支援は充実であり、教室や図書館などの施設も完備されている。そして、特に大きな印象を受けたのは、先生たちが教育に非常に力を入れていること。

　社交的な性格ではなく、アルバイトで忙しかったこともあり、国際センターが主催したイベントにはほとんど参加できなかった。この点については、母校にも学習院大学にも申し訳なく感じている。それでも、この一年間は非常に貴重な経験となった。卒論のテーマだけでなく、将来送りたい生活や人生の目標も徐々に明確になってきた。

WU, Ling Ching - Soochow University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2024 - March 2025

学習院大学に留学来たことを、とても光栄に思っています。

半年という長そうな時間ですが、あっという間に別れを告ぐ時が迎えました。この半年間は、学習院大学での学校生活はもちろん、休みの時間も充実に過ごせることができました。この機に感謝を伝えたいことが2つあります。まず、一つ目は、国際センターで留学生やバディーと交流しながら過ごして、ジェスチャーの違いといった細かいことから、生活習慣、日本で感じたカルチャーショック、各国の社会問題、日本の文化、若者言葉まで、様々な話題で盛り上がっていることは今でも鮮明に覚えています。いろいろ教えてくれてありがとうございます。二つ目は、さまざまな文化体験や言語交換の機会などを与えてくださった学習院大学となんでも優しく答えていただいた国際センターの先生方に感謝いたします。能楽鑑賞から、落語、茶道、折り紙体験など日本文化を少しでも深く知ったような気がします。

留学生活で経験するすべての事柄、例えば、学習院大学に向かう小道、国際センターでのランチタイム、授業で精一杯聞き取っている留学生たちの姿、そして休日の冒険など、どれも呼吸するような些細な出来事ですが、今の私が前に進む原動力になっています。これからも留学で得たすばらしい経験を忘れずに頑張っていきます。

留学で会った物事に、ありがとうございました。

HSU, An Chi - Soochow University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - August 2024

学習院大学の交換留学生になって良かったと思います。学習院の履修制度は自由度が高く、基本的にほとんどの科目を履修することができます。留学生向けの日本語の授業だけでなく、学部生と一緒に専門科目の日本語学を勉強しました。

また、授業が自由に選べるので、課外活動のスケジュールも余裕を持って組むことができました。和楽器のサークルに入り、一から三味線を弾き始めました。各国からの留学生と知り合い、一緒に旅行したり、歌舞伎を観たりする機会もありました。したがって、海外での一人暮らしにはすぐに慣れました。

この間、お世話になったすべての方々に心から感謝を申し上げます。

学習院大学に留学する皆さんが、留学生活を満喫できるよう願っています。

LAI, Yan shen - National Sun Yat-sen University

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - August 2024

この半年間、とても素晴らしい経験をさせてもらい、心から感謝している。

学習院大学での時間は、授業だけでなく、サークル活動もとても楽しく充実していた。学習院大学の立地も良く、東京の繁栄を体験できた。東京は日本だけでなく、世界中の人々が集まるところで、日本というより世界と向き合っている感じがする。ここで学び、さまざまな人々と出会えたことに感動している。自分に経験を積ませ、多くのことを体験する機会を最大限に活用しようと思っていたが、学習院大学は自分の日本に対する憧れを実現してくれた。

大学に入ったその瞬間から、日本に交換留学することを目標にしていたので、学習院大学に来ることができて本当に良かった。自分は音楽学科の学生だが、ここには音楽関連の学科はなかった。しかし、サークル活動を通じて日本の学生と音楽を通じた交流の機会を得ることができた。日本語の能力も飛躍的に向上したと思う。学校の授業で聴く、話す、読む、書く力が鍛えられるだけでなく、日常生活でも常に自分の学んだことを試されている感じがした。自分がますます対応できるようになっていることに気づいた時、その達成感は自分を前進させる原動力となった。校外でもさまざまな活動や祭りに参加することができた。主流文化だけでなく、サブカルチャーに触れる機会もあり、それは台湾とは比べものにならない経験だ。この期間に高校時代の夢を叶え、今後の努力の方向も決めることができた。

学習院大学に来て、日本の大学生としての身分を持ち、短い五ヶ月の間で観光客としては決して体験できない感情や経験をたくさん得ることができた。友達を作り、素晴らしい人々と交流することができた経験は、自分の人生の次の段階において重要な糧となるだろう。華やかな東京の光景と充実したキャンパスライフは、自分の心に深く刻まれており、どんなに時が経ってもこの時間を忘れることはない。

LIN, Chia-Li - National Sun Yat-sen University

Enrolled in Graduate Course of Management
April 2024 - August 2024

In April 2024, I began my semester-long exchange program in Japan, an experience that left a profound mark on my life. Upon arriving in Japan, I inevitably felt a bit apprehensive and nervous, but fortunately, the school arranged for two very friendly buddies to help me get familiar with the environment. They not only showed me around the campus and nearby facilities but also introduced me to many local delicacies and cultural aspects, allowing me to quickly adapt to life here.

Gakushuin University's environment is incredibly welcoming to foreign students. The staff and  students were all very warm and helpful, making me, as a first-time resident abroad, feel quite at ease. The campus has an international student office that is always ready to provide various forms of assistance, enabling me to quickly find solutions to any difficulties I encountered in both my life and studies.

During this exchange period, I made friends from all over the world. Through conversations and outings with them, I learned a lot about different cultures and ways of life from various parts of the globe. Whether my friends were from Europe, America, or other Asian countries, each person's experiences and stories broadened my horizons, and these valuable interactions gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world.

The course offerings at Gakushuin University are also very considerate of foreign students. Some courses are available in English, which allowed me to keep up with my studies smoothly. Additionally, the Japanese language courses offered by the school are highly professional, with teachers who are very patient in guiding us. Whether it was pronunciation or grammar, the teachers would carefully correct us and provide detailed explanations. These courses not only improved my Japanese proficiency but also gave me a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

In conclusion, my exchange experience at Gakushuin University brought me many wonderful memories and invaluable experiences. From the initial unfamiliarity and apprehension to gradually adapting and enjoying life here, I learned how to live independently in a new environment, made many new friends, and expanded my international perspective. This experience will be an unforgettable chapter in my life and will add endless possibilities to my future studies and life.

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。）

AMONPITAKPUN, Noppasorn- Chulalongkorn University

Enrolled in  Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2024 - August 2025

学習院大学での1年間は、本当に素晴らしい経験でした。この1年間で日本語も成長し、自信を持って会話できるようになりました。そして、国際センターの皆様のおかげで、不安なく日本での生活を楽しむことができ、心から感謝しています。授業や国際センターのイベントに参加したことで、日本人の学生や留学生とたくさん交流することができ、新しい友達もできました。一生忘れられない大切な思い出です。
もしまた機会があれば、ぜひもう一度学習院大学に戻って、皆さんにお会いしたいです。

PONGSANAN, Panuchanart - Assumption University

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2024 - August 2024

I was at Gakushuin University for a semester. It was really nice to study in such a good place with good companions. Gakushuin University is an amazing place, which provides a lot of facilities for students. They have an innovative library and great support for exchange students. People here are also quite friendly, they will try to approach you and communicate with you. I made a lot of friends while doing an exchange program.

Moreover, an international center provided a lot of activities for international students, which created an opportunity for exchange students to get to know each other.

I appreciate everything Gakushuin University has done for me. Thank you very much.

TAWANCHAI, Chaemchuen - Assumption University

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2024 - August 2024

　一学期だけになりましたが、とても楽しい経験でした。残念ながら、私は私事でオリエンテーションに参加できませんでした。それでも、学習院大学の国際センターの皆さんは私だけのためにオリエンテーションをしました。大変ありがとうございました。

　この一学期間にはたくさん日本人も外国人の友達ができました。授業中には皆さんがいつも私を手伝ってくれました。そして、先生方は優しくて、理解してくれました。私は最初、まだ日本の学生の生活に慣れていませんでした。話し方も授業のシステムも。それでも、先生方はいつも私に理解させるように説明しました。クラスの時間以外に問題があった時にも、私のバディーとSAさんたちはいつも手伝ってくれました。私がとった授業は大体日本語も英語も使っていましたから、何か分からない時に英語で聞くことができました。私は日本人の友達に通訳してあげることもありました。

　学習院大学の先生方と国際センターのスタッフの方々には、日本語が不自由なときでも、いつも快く助けてくださり、忍耐強く、理解してくださったことに心から感謝しています。

　最後に、私は学習院大学の先生方と国際センターのスタッフの方々に感謝の気持ちをお伝えしたい。また日本に来る機会があったら、学生としても、旅行者としても、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。

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!

LOGAN, Dakota Wilson - Troy University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2024-August 2024

My time spent here at Gakushuin University has been nothing short of unforgettable! Originally, I had planned to come to Japan to experience a completely different culture from my own, and that I did. However, with that being said, my Japanese skills were very basic and I didn't understand much (pretty much just reading Hiragana and introducing myself). This made me quite nervous, but all of my nerves were wiped away once I arrived at Gakushuin. Not only are you welcomed with open arms, you are given everything you need to succeed and more. To say the staff and teachers are understanding would be an understatement. The Staff will assist you with anything you need and the teachers will go out of their way to make sure you understand the material!

Another thing I would like to shine some light on is the buddy system that is offered. Whenever I first arrived, I was assigned 2 buddies who were fellow students here at Gakushuin. Not only are they extremely welcoming and helpful but so are the buddies of other international students! These fellow peers of mine ended up becoming some of my closest friends here in Japan and I will be forever grateful for them! Without this buddy system, I can guarantee I wouldn't have been as social and would have had troubles in my day-to-day life abroad.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Japan, exploring and experiencing this culture. I can't thank the staff, teachers, and fellow students enough for this fantastic semester abroad. I am looking forward to one day revisiting to catch up with everyone!

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.

MURRAY, Jessica Jane - University of Edinburgh 

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024-August 2025

My experience at Gakushuin University is one I will remember forever. I made new friends from all nationalities and created memories I will never forget. The staff of the International Centre made settling into Japan easy and provided help and support with any issues I encountered. The outings organised within the centre were also great fun and helped me learn more about Japanese culture; one of my favourites was attending a Noh performance. I also enjoyed the opportunity to take a course on Japanese Arts and Culture, where I participated in and experienced a traditional tea ceremony and attended a Rakugo performance, among other activities. If you have the opportunity to study at Gakushuin you should take it, I guarantee you will make life-long memories!

LEWIS, Boylan - Oxford Brookes University

Enrolled in Department of History, Faculty of Letters
September 2023-August 2024

Gakushuin University has been the best experience in Japan I could have asked for. Gakushuin is in a great part of Japan, near the middle of Toyko and just a walk away from Ikebukuro, my favourite place in Japan and a hugely convenient place to go out with your friends at night, as it has many restaurants, izakaya, and kareoke etc, as well as having almost every line in tokyo in its station. Gakushuin's staff is incredibly helpful and looks after you very well. If you have an issue, they will help you. For example, when I dropped my phone in Japan I sent them an email, and the same day they phoned up all the nearby phone repair shops and asked if they had parts for my phone (as its very rare to have a Samsung in Japan) and replied to my email with the address of a place that would help me. They really are fantastic. The facilities in Gakushuin are modern, and good. It's a pretty University, and it has a gym which you can sign up for, as well as a huge amount of circles. The university also only accepts a small number of international students (about 50), which creates a tight-knit community where most international students are friends with each other which I really like as everyone I met here has been great. The university also occasionally holds trips for the international students which allows you to learn lots about Japanese culture first hand. A couple examples are where we made noodles and used Kimono printing techniques to decorate bags which we took home! They also asign you 3 buddys soon after you arrive, who will help you with all of the beaurocracy you have to do when you move in, as well as other things and are usually friendly and introduce you easily to some potential Japanese friends. I really cannot reccomend Gakushuin enough, the only complaint I can think of is that if you want to take classes in English other than Japanese, be prepared to take classes about politics or economics because those are the only subjects taught in English here. (Most international students take 1 or 2 of these) of course if you're interested that it's not an issue though. Overall though a fantastic university, you should come!

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.

ELOUAN, Viktor Gerhard Viszneki - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Department of  International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2025 - August 2025

I came to Gakushuin University in April 2025. The reason I came to Japan was to experience the Japanese Culture and to learn the Language. Gakushuin University was a great place to study. The onbarding process with all of the organisational stuff was very well explained and worked smoothly because of that. Also, every student gets two Japanese Buddies who are there to help you. I took three Japanese Classes per week which helped me greatly in learning Japanese. The University Campus is huge and there are many clubs to join. Gakushuin University offers a great student environment and I had a very fun time. One of the biggest highlights was the trip to Kawagoe organised by the International Centre. The International Centre Staff is very friendly and puts in a lot of work to create a great experience for the exchange students. All of the events organised by the International Centre were great and I am grateful that I was able to participate in some of them. All in all my time at Gakushuin University was great, I was able to improve my Japanese a lot, and I was able to experience a lot of the Japanese Culture. The International Centre is great and was a big help regarding the organisation of everything. The trips and events organised by the International Centre were very nice and actually were a highlight of my stay at Gakushuin.

ESIN EDZHEVIT, Mehmedali  - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Department of  International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024 - March 2025

 My stay in Japan as an exchange student was a life-changing experience. Not only did I have the opportunity to improve my Japanese language skills, but I also managed to explore a lot of places and got to know a lot of new people. I met amazing new friends, and I think those friendships will last even after I return to my home country. I am very grateful to the International Centre for their continuous support and understanding. I think my stay in Japan made me a genuinely happier person. My experiences taught me that I need to appreciate special moments with like-minded people and beautiful places more, something I would rarely think of back in Germany. I had the chance to change my perspective, and I can confidently say that I will be coming back to Japan again because I fell in love with the country, the culture and the people.  The
courses I took at the Faculty of International Social Sciences at the university were very insightful and I can definitely say that I have learned a lot - especially on Asian economy and how business is conducted in this part of the world - something I would have never learned at my home university. The teaching approach here is fundamentally different than what we have back in Germany. It was very interesting to adjust to new teaching approaches and challenge my learning habits. Japan has taught me a lot. It really changed me as a person, even in 6 months, a relatively short period of time. As a Bulgarian, I initially am an international student in Germany, as well. But my experience in Japan really provided me with the chance to see what it really means to be very far away from Europe - the place I call home, where my family and friends are waiting for me to return. It was definitely a challenge - but I never felt lonely here, even for a second, thanks to all the help and support I got from the International Centre at Gakushuin University and the people responsible for my stay at Kitazono Women's Dormitory. I have never imagined that I would get so much help, especially in difficult moments, like for example, when I needed to go see a doctor for an emergency. I am forever grateful for the people I got to know, the character development as a result of my experience here and the great memories I will be looking back to for the rest of my life. Thank you, Gakushuin University, and thank you, Japan! I will miss every second of it!

BOBACH RIOS, Marlene - University of Mannheim

Enrolled in Department of  International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024 - March 2025

I very much enjoyed my time at Gakushuin University. You can tell that they care for their students, as you get quick responses to questions via e-mail. Since there are not that many exchange students compared to other universities, each one of us got assigned three buddies to help us with challenges that you may encounter in Japan, such as opening a Japanese bank account or getting your commuter pass. I also really liked that the International Centre organized some events to do trips or to experience Japanese culture, for example making washi paper, which I really appreciated. Overall, my experience at this University was great, the teachers were nice and I made many new friends.

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.

RENARD, Marie  - University of Strasbourg

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2024 - August 2025

I studied at Gakushuin University for a year in the Japanese Language Department. It was a wonderful experience, and I am very thankful for all the help and advice from the International Center. I could enroll in various classes and learn a lot of different things, from japanese grammar to classical literature.

During this year, I could learn a lot from Japanese culture. It was also a great opportunity to study Japanese.

This year was definitely one of the best years of my life as I had the opportunity to meet and befriend a lot of different people and learn a lot from them.

I will dearly miss my daily life in Japan and I hope that I can come back as soon as I can !

SCHWEITZER, Mathilde Sophie  - Université Paris Cité 

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
September 2024 - August 2025

I had a wonderful year at Gakushuin University. When I arrived in Japan in September, I was a bit lost and everything was unfamiliar to me, but the staff at the international centre helped me greatly throughout the year. Whenever I had a problem or a question about the courses, they always found the time to answer me and help me with my issues.

Japanese lessons are tailored to your level, and you can progress at your own pace. Classes consist of around ten students, which allows the teacher to give each student individual attention throughout the lesson. There is also a wide variety of cultural studies courses, particularly in economics and law.

PERIANO, Annette Romane Colette - Sciences Po Lyon

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024- August 2025

J'ai vécu 11 mois merveilleux au Japon en tant qu'étudiante à Gakushuin. Habiter le temps d'une année au Japon a toujours été un rêve pour moi, et je suis énormément reconnaissante d'avoir pu vivre cette expérience dans cette université. Étudiante à Sciences Po Lyon, mon niveau de Japonais en arrivant était très faible. Ça a donc été très confortable de savoir que le staff du Centre International était à disposition pour nous aider pour la paperasse et nos premiers moments au Japon !

Le campus de l'université et notamment l'open space du Centre International  a été un véritable lieu de rencontre tout au long de mon année ! Grâce au système de buddy, j'ai pu rencontrer des étudiantes japonaises dès le début de mon année. Étudiante en ISS, j'ai choisi au premier semestre de prendre essentiellement des cours de langue puis au second (à partir d'avril), majoritairement des cours en Anglais, même si j'y ai souvent revus des notions que je connaissais. En plus des professeures de japonais toutes très gentilles, les cours de langue ont toujours été à très faible effectif, rendant  l'apprentissage du Japonais très agréable.

En bref, j'ai vécu de très bons moments à Tokyo et ailleurs, lorsque j'ai eu l'opportunité de voyager. Cet échange restera un souvenir inoubliable pour moi et mes proches, venus me rendre visite au cours de l'année. Merci à Gakushuin d'avoir rendu tout cela possible, et merci à toutes les personnes que j'y rencontré !!

VIETTE, Quentin - IAE Paris-Est UPEC

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024-March 2025

My experience in Japan was a goal I had set myself since the age of 15. Today, at 20, I've managed to accomplish it, and I couldn't be more satisfied. However, this experience has left such a deep impression on me that I hope it will continue and not end here. 

It's largely thanks to Gakushuin University that this adventure has become unforgettable. With a small number of foreign students, personalized follow-up and a system of *buddies* to accompany us from the moment we arrived in the country, everything was thought out to facilitate our integration and make this experience unique. 

What's more, in a warm and motivating atmosphere, Gakushuin offers the opportunity to learn Japanese at all levels, and to follow a wide range of courses, taught in English or Japanese. 

In conclusion, my experience at Gakushuin has reinforced my desire to build a future in Japan. Not only has it enabled me to progress academically and linguistically, but it has also provided me with unforgettable encounters and memories. I'm grateful for this opportunity and am determined to continue this path with enthusiasm and ambition. 

FOFANA, Batrou - IAE Paris-Est UPEC

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024-March 2025

During my exchange at Gakushuin University, I was pleased with the flexibility of the schedule, which allowed me to balance attending classes with exploring Japan. The course selection system was particularly advantageous, as it enabled students to tailor their studies by choosing from a diverse range of subjects. 

The classes were well-organized and easy to follow. Even in large lecture halls, there were ample opportunities to
ask questions. The professors were approachable, attentive, and ensured that everyone understood the material.
Group projects and discussions were a highlight, as they encouraged us to share our perspectives on various topics.
These interactive sessions not only deepened my understanding of the subjects but also made learning more engaging.

The university campus is vast, but most classes were conveniently held in the same building. The facilities were excellent, offering access to a library, a bookstore, the university's official merchandise shop, a café, vending
machines, and even a combini. Occasionally, food stands would pop up, adding to the convenience and vibrancy of
campus life.

The Buddy System was a fantastic initiative. My buddy was incredibly kind and always available to assist me when I needed help. We became good friends, and I am grateful to have met her. I also forged meaningful connections with other exchange students, making this one of my best semesters ever.

The university organized numerous activities for exchange students, which provided a deeper immersion into
Japanese culture. I particularly enjoyed attending a rakugo performance, which was both entertaining and
culturally enriching. With over a hundred clubs to choose from, I joined the jazz club as a vocalist. Despite my
limited Japanese vocabulary, I was impressed by the efforts made on both sides to communicate effectively. The club members were exceptionally talented--almost like professionals--and I cherished my time with them.

However, there was one challenge I faced in an online class. While the course was conducted in English, group
discussions often posed difficulties. Some students spoke exclusively in Japanese during these sessions, and I
frequently felt ignored. Additionally, my questions were occasionally overlooked by the professors. While I
understand the cultural and linguistic context, this was a frustrating aspect of an otherwise excellent academic experience.

Overall, my exchange at Gakushuin University was a profoundly positive and enriching experience. I had the chance to learn Japanese, immerse myself in Japanese culture, and connect with wonderful people. The International Student Support (ISS) team was exceptionally responsive, ensuring that we felt comfortable and had
a rewarding experience. Choosing Gakushuin University for my exchange was one of the best decisions I've made,
as it gave me invaluable memories and friendships that I will cherish forever.

NOÉMIE, Le Tonquèze - IAE Paris-Est UPEC

Enrolled in Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2024-August 2024

I had a wonderful experience in Japan, and I am so thankful to everyone who made it possible. Coming to Japan to have my own adventure and improve my language skills was one of my dreams, and I am so grateful to have made it come true!

Gakushuin is a fantastic university with a well-organized and friendly International Center that is always there to help you if needed. The teachers are very kind, and the students are just as friendly! Thanks to the buddy system, I was able to meet many Japanese students right from the start, which was amazing. We have become very good friends and will definitely stay in touch. The campus is also great, and I really enjoyed attending classes and spending time there. I will definitely miss it.

I will remember this experience for the rest of my life because it brought me so many positive things, both personally and professionally. I will definitely miss my daily life and all the trips and experiences I had in Japan. I really look forward to coming back, and I wish all future exchange students an experience as great as mine.

Thank you so much again, and I wish you all the best in the future!

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.

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!

FRANCESCO, Rolfo - University of Turin 

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2025 - August.2025

My exchange period at Gakushuin University has been a truly valuable experience. During my stay I was able to improve my Japanese language skills and learn more about Japanese culture through classes and daily life. The professors and staff were very kind and supportive, and my classmates helped me a lot in adapting to life in Tokyo.

I especially enjoyed the opportunities to join cultural events and student activities. For example, I participated in some field trips organized by the International Centre, such as a trip to Kawagoe where we wore traditional kimonos, and I also joined club activities, which gave me the chance to make Japanese friends.

Although sometimes I had difficulties, such as adjusting to the different academic system and managing daily expenses in Tokyo, I believe these experiences made me grow as a person.

I am very thankful to Gakushuin University for welcoming me and to the International Centre for their continuous support. I will strongly recommend this program to future students from my home university.

SHIMING, Ye  -  University of Turin 

Enrolled in Department of Economics , Faculty of Economics
April 2025 - August 2025

I am very happy with my stay at Gakushuin University! I was able to make international friends, both Japanese students and international students from other countries. The buddy program was very useful; I met two wonderful girls who kept me company during these five months. I think the International Centre also pushes to participate in a lot of interesting events from approaching a sport like Aikido to taking the students on a school trip all the way to Kawagoe (Saitama). The campus is beautiful especially during mid-April, when the cherry blossoms have bloomed completely. The teachers are also extremely helpful and supportive. The Japanese language courses can be a bit challenging, but the teachers always try to give you a hand in case you don't understand something or need more time with the corrections. I totally recommend Gakushuin! The only sad part, five months were definitely not enough!

COSTANZA, Casagrande Oliva  -University of Turin

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2025 - August.2025

Being a student at Gakushuin University for one semester was one of the best experiences of my life. Even though five months is actually a short period of time that flies by very quickly, I had the chance to improve my Japanese language skills, meet wonderful people and experience life in Tokyo as a university student.

The first month can be a bit overwhelming, and you may face some challenges due to Japanese bureaucracy, but thanks to the support of the International Centre and the buddy programme, everything can be resolved smoothly.

The Japanese lessons were different from the ones I used to attend in Italy, but they were effective and immersive. If you encounter some difficulties in your Japanese language studies, as I sometimes did, you can get support during the Student Assisted (SA) lessons. The students who participate in the SA are always very kind and willing to help you with your homework and provide all the explanations you need.

To make the most of your stay in Japan, I highly recommend joining a club (or a circle) to meet Japanese students and make new friends. I also suggest taking part in the educational activities organised by the International Centre to learn more about Japanese culture.

I will carry this wonderful experience in my heart and look forward to coming back to Japan as soon as possible!

LIPARDI, Bernadette  -University of Naples"L'orientale "

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - March.2025

Hi everyone! I am Bernadette and I am grateful to have the opportunity to talk about my experience at Gakushuin University, which gave me the best year of my life. I have met Japanese students with whom I have bonded a lot and who I now consider my best friends. I also forged friendships with so many international students, thanks to the international centre, which was always our heartfelt host and our new home. I heartily recommend this university which has a wonderful campus, qualified professors and an international office ready to help you if you need it.  I couldn't ask for better! 

Living in Japan for a year is not easy, especially when you are alone and away from your family, but the university allowed me to become familiar with many people right away and to have numerous experiences and daytrips that gave me wonderful moments that I will cherish in my heart forever. I would like to sincerely thank all my friends from the year 2023-24, mainly from the first semester and from the second semester. Next, my best friends, Takumi, Shiho and Yating without whom my life would have been completely different. In addition, I would also like to sincerely thank Mr. Matsui and all the people who work in the international office for making me feel at home and working hard to make this a unique experience for all international students. Finally, I would like to thank all the teachers and professors with whom I studied both Japanese and German, who helped me to improve in the language. I had so much fun while studying thanks to them.

As I have already said, I am grateful that I chose this university and would choose it 100 more times if I could go back in time, because it has taught me so much. I hope that in the future I will be able to see many people with whom I have spent time and had experiences together, so that I can talk about how this university has become my second home from which I now find it hard to part.

IRENE, Porpora Anastasio - University of Turin

Enrolled in Department of Japanese Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters
April 2024 - August 2024

I spent an amazing time here in Tokyo, and I'm happy I had the chance to attend Gakushuin University. Before coming and during the first few days in Japan, I faced many challenges, but thanks to the help of many people (both Japanese friends and the staff at the International Center) I managed everything. It can be demoralising at the beginning, but don't worry too much. I met amazing people during my journey here, not only international students like me, but also Japanese students. Gakushuin University has not a lot of international students, compared to other big universities in Tokyo, so it's very easy to make new friends and get along.

The campus of this prestigious university is surrounded by nature and filled with wonderful buildings. When I'm there it feels like a "safe space", and I forget I'm in the super busy and overwhelming centre of Tokyo.

The buddy program is very helpful, and thanks to that, I had 3 new Japanese friends right from the start of the semester.

The activities organized by the International Center were so fun and stimulating. If you participate you will have the chance to experience the Japanese culture while having fun with your friends.

The courses are so different from the ones I usually take in Italy, but the Professors were always available when I encountered any problems. I found the courses interesting and beneficial. I feel I was able to improve my Japanese language skills thanks to the Japanese courses, which motivated me to continue improving even more, in order to come back here someday, but with a deeper understanding of what living and studying in Japan really means.

So many things happened during this semester, and I hope I can stay longer next time.  The things I did and the people I met during my stay will always hold a special place in my heart and memory, but I'm sure I will meet them again one day and remember together this period with nostalgia. I will never forget this semester, it is an amazing experience that changed my life and made me more mature. I would recommend it to any person interested in studying in Japan.

IVEE, Lea Marianne Garcia - University of Turin

Enrolled in Graduate Course in Japanese Language and Literature
April 2024 - August 2024

My experience at Gakushuin has been educational in various aspects. The only comment I would make is regarding the duration, as the period of a single semester passes in an instant.

As many have already mentioned, preparing all the necessary documentation for mobility takes time, but fortunately, the staff at the International Center are available to respond to and guide us through any types of requests and concerns, becoming a point of reference amid the school life on campus. The International Center also organizes interesting educational activities that allow us foreign students to become closer to Japanese culture. I recommend participating in all these activities provided, as they are often free or accessible at a reasonable price.

Campus life is very lively, with various common and outdoor spaces that allow for a brief escape from the hectic life when desired. Thanks to the 'buddy' system, it was easy to make initial acquaintances with Japanese students and handle the necessary steps upon arrival, such as subscribing to national insurance, opening a bank account, and purchasing a simple Japanese SIM card.

Regarding the structure of courses within the university, they are relatively different from the courses I am accustomed to in Italy, and I do not hide the fact that I encountered some difficulties. However, the university offers support systems, and the professors were all more than available throughout the semester to assist and clarify any unclear points. Do not hesitate to ask questions.

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.

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.

FRANCISZEK, Marek Kroll - Jagielloński University

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

Starting things with the arrival the process was much smoother than I anticipated. The help and easy communication with the international center made it a stress-free process for which Im grateful. Same could be said about every step of the way which is a big plus. Moving on to studying in Gakushuin, no matter the department everyone can find something for themselves. There are some really interesting classes and some boring ones but the former are much more abundant. The campus is also well equipped to make the experience as enjoyable for students as possible. All in all the Im really glad to have chosen Gakushuin as my University for exchange and can safely recommend it to anyone having doubts about choosing an University in Japan.

JORIGE, burzinskaite - Vilnius University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
April 2025 - August 2025

My exchange semester at Gakushuin University was a unique and meaningful experience. I took a range of classes, including Financial Accounting, Health Economics, International Migration, The Economic Development of Japan, Politics and Economy in Southeast Asia, and Contemporary Japan and Society. These courses helped me understand not only theoretical concepts, but also real-world economic and social issues in Japan and the broader region. I also took Japanese language classes.

Even though most of my classes were taught in English, I still felt connected to the local environment. The campus itself was calm and welcoming, and the professors were supportive and kind.

Outside the classroom, living in Tokyo was an adventure in itself. I learned how to navigate a completely different culture, communicate with people from various backgrounds, and adapt to new daily routines.

Looking back, this semester helped me grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity. It wasn't always easy - but that's what made it meaningful. I'm thankful for everything I experienced at Gakushuin University, and I hope to return to Japan one day, carrying with me the lessons I've learned.

KOMSKYTE, Barbora - Vilnius University

Enrolled in Department of International Social Sciences, Faculty of International Social Sciences
September 2024 - March 2025

I was an exchange student in the University from 2024 September until 2025 January. At first I didn't believe that I will get an answer from the University and my biggest dream of living and studying in Japan even for a short time will finally come true. Maybe it sounds strange that I'm calling a semester a short time, but studying at Gakushuin University came by so fast, because I had so much fun here.

At first, I've had some difficulties while trying to open up a bank account and figuring out all the stuff that I need to do at the City Ward office to become a resident. But the people working at the International Centre were kind enough to help me with everything. There was a really kind woman who helped me and another exchange student to open up a bank account and stayed with us there for the entire time. I'm really thankful to the International Centre not only for helping with all the issues and questions, but also for taking us exchange students to excursions and letting us experience authentic Japanese culture.

As a Japanology student, I had the opportunity at Gakushuin to focus on other areas that are not related to my studies at home. I gained information and experience in the studies of law and economics, marketing, politics, and communication. I'm sure that this experience and gained knowledge will be useful to me in the future. In addition, I was able to better my Japanese language skills and was able to conquer my fear of speaking in Japanese. I'm really thankful for this to my sweetest Japanese language professors that were kind and patient enough during the language classes.

To summarize, I think that the experience that I've gained while studying at Gakushuin University will be the most memorable and beneficial for my future plans. I'm really thankful to those who helped me throughout my stay.