What are you studying, and what drew you to the Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies at Waseda University?

I am studying international affairs, with specialisations in trade and environment. There were several factors that drew me to Waseda University. The overarching motive of course was the prospect of living in Japan (which was a dream come true after all the years of watching anime and seeking out authentic ramen). But Waseda in particular offered a wide selection of courses taught in English, which were aligned with what I had studied before while providing a distinctly Asian perspective on these issues, which made it the natural first-choice for me.
 

How did your time in Tokyo complement your studies in Geneva?

My semester in Tokyo proved to be a very enriching and rewarding academic experience. While I had the opportunity to build on topics relating to trade regulations and capital flows that I had been studying in Geneva, I also got to take Japanese language classes and study Japan’s diplomatic policy. I particularly liked Japan’s Zemi system, where small groups of students meet weekly to discuss progress on their projects and dissertations with their supervisor and fellow students, providing an avenue to test out ideas and learn from peers in a structured environment. I ultimately ended up writing my masters’ dissertation on a topic that I was introduced to during the exchange, making it a crucial part of my academic journey.

What was it like being in Tokyo as a student?

Tokyo is an incredible city and a great place to be a student! While it’s an expensive city, there is always a lot happening and it is very easy to find things that fit your budget. There are many affordable residences that are specifically geared towards international students, the public transport system needs no introduction, food is cheap and easily accessible, and going out is great fun. In my five months there, I never ran out of things to do or places to explore — from going karaoke to trying out conveyor belt sushi, looking for the best ramen in town and exploring tons of themed cafes to checking out the shrines and local festivals and street markets to experiencing the autumn colours in the city’s many parks to getting lost in the neon-lit streets, I was constantly spoilt for choice. When in Tokyo, there is never a dull moment!

What is your favourite memory from your time in Tokyo?

This is a difficult question, with no correct answers — I would not know where to begin! Living in Tokyo is a completely immersive experience and I have many pleasant memories from my everyday life in Tokyo — the gruff greeting from my elderly neighbour on my way to class, the sense of accomplishment from being able to communicate with the locals in Japanese, the thrill of travelling across the length and breadth of Honshu, exploring new places and taking in new experiences. If I had to pick one defining moment though, it would be my visit to Mount Fuji, where I had
the surreal experience of relaxing in an onsen (open hot bath) while taking in the breathtaking snow-covered landscape, as the clouds slowly parted to reveal the summit. This was one of the highlights of my time in Japan, and will definitely be one of my most cherished memories for life. I am truly grateful to the Institute for providing me with this wonderful opportunity to experience life in Japan.