I found out about Kokushikan University when I was looking for a university where I could study traditional Japanese culture, in which I am very interested. I chose Kokushikan University because I was very attracted by the curriculum of the School of Asia 21, which includes basic courses not only on traditional Japanese culture but also on contemporary Japanese culture and on understanding foreign cultures.

My days at the university were based on three pillars: clear determination of my goals and plan of university life, active participation in university events, and exchange with Japanese students. Based on these principles, I focused on studying Japanese in the first year, studied for qualifications and strengthened my specialist knowledge in the second year, investigated employment opportunities in the third year, and wrote my graduation thesis and gained more familiarity with Japanese society in the fourth year.

Regarding my original aim of learning about traditional Japanese culture, I was able to study Japanese classical dance, music, ikebana, tea ceremony, calligraphy, Noh and Kyogen.

Kokushikan University is a place where students can study both traditional and contemporary culture. Not only the specialist knowledge but also the ability to communicate with Japanese people and understanding of Japanese society I have acquired inside and outside the university have been very helpful in my current work.