Mari Hirayama, Chairperson of Hakuoh University International Affairs

It is well known that NATSUME Soseki (famous Japanese novelist, known for “Kokoro” “ I am a cat” etc.) had a hard time studying abroad in England. He went to the UK in 1900 (Meiji 33), but at that time, there was of course no internet. There were even no international telephone service. Back then, studying abroad must have required even more courage than it does today.

Nowadays, you can easily talk, “face to face”, with your family or friends in your home county by using video call apps, and with translation software, you can instantly translate foreign languages into Japanese. What I would like to say is, compared to the past, the barriers to studying abroad have significantly become lower.

However, when you actually go abroad, things may be quite different from your home country. For example, when trying to purchase something at a store or requesting a service at a hotel, many of us will find it several times more difficult than when we are doing so in Japan. In these situations, you may feel anxious and panicked. However, when you manage to tell what you would like to say through gestures and body language, or asking help of those around you, and overcome such situations, these struggles will be very important experience for you. And this is not just about communicating while abroad. Even within Japan, when trying to convey your feelings or thoughts to someone from a different country or culture, the same thing applies. Of course, you might not succeed in communication in some cases. It is, however, still an important form of international exchange for both you and the other person.

So, Hakuoh students, I encourage you all to explore such experiences during your time at university.

Hakuoh University offers various international exchange programs and also numerous opportunities for the students to study at universities in other countries and interact with international students at our campus. Please interact with diverse cultures and perspectives, respect differences while fostering mutual understanding. These experiences also bring you to find out and rediscover the strengths and virtues of your own country.　We, the International Exchange Center, will do our best to support your growth through such experiences.

Chairperson of International Exchange Center
Mari Hirayama, Professor of Law

Testimonials from a President of International Student Club

They say the way you spend your time during university days defines how your life turns out. With such high hope expectations and aspirations I chose this university. And I am glad to say it’s one of the best decision I made in my life. Being a foreign student I had fear of being left out and no confidence in my Japanese language, but kind friendly supportive students and teachers helped me to improve myself and move forward. I have never felt left out by anyone. The friendly environment and the lectures are the best thing of this university. There also are library where you can study with peace of mind, cafeteria to enjoy your time with friends. The club activities are the best thing that make you feel like home. Located right beside the station there are lot of things you can enjoy. From supermarkets, restaurant, game-center all within the reach by free bus. I say it’s the best place you can spend your time and get a lot in return. I am having an unforgettable experience in this university where I am treated as a family by everyone all I want to say is thank you very much Hakuoh for so much love and support.

Testimonials from a Graduate Student

I am so lucky to be able to come to Hakuoh University. I can enjoy my study abroad life in the quiet city of Oyama. At Hakuoh University, both teachers and classmates have been very enthusiastic in supporting us international students. One of my favorite memories was visiting a nearby high school, where I was able to lecture about my home country. Thanks to the hard work of the faculty and staff at Hakuoh University, I was able to receive several scholarships during my time in Japan.
Every day is very fulfilling, and getting such support and help in an unfamiliar city is a rare event. I love Hakuoh University, and I love everyone at this school.