広島県公立大学法人 叡啓大学

About

Alumni

OKUNO Chiharu

March 2026 Graduation

Updated March 2026

I was able to find the person I want to become

Searching for What Truly Suits Me

Until high school, I was the kind of student who simply devoted myself wholeheartedly to what was in front of me—club activities, studying, and day‑to‑day responsibilities. Yet, even as I poured myself into those efforts, I realized I had never truly taken the time to ask: “What do I really want to do?” or “What do I genuinely enjoy?”

The only vague aspiration I held was the desire to “be someone who can have a positive impact on others.” That was why I wanted to acquire not only specialized skills, but also broad, adaptable abilities that would allow me to thrive in any environment.

A turning point came during my high school years amid the COVID‑19 pandemic. As learning opportunities at school became limited, I spent more time watching the news and reading. For the first time, I discovered the joy of independently seeking out information and thinking through issues on my own, rather than simply being taught by someone else. I realized how exciting it is to learn and take action proactively.

That experience naturally led me to Eikei University of Hiroshima, where active learning is a core part of the educational approach.

At the Public Presentation of Degree Project

Stepping Outside the Classroom to Take On Real-World Challenges

From the moment I enrolled, my learning has been a continuous series of practical experiences. One of the most memorable was the Project-Based Learning (PBL) course, in which we worked on real challenges faced by companies. Being entrusted with an actual corporate issue became an invaluable experience for me. The problem‑solving skills I developed through this program also proved useful in unexpected ways—helping me navigate challenges in my part-time job and even small difficulties in daily life.

In addition, through IoT‑related learning such as Excel and programming, I gained foundational skills that I now apply in everyday situations. Learning did not end within the classroom; it naturally connected to my daily life. I strongly feel that one of the greatest strengths of the curriculum at Eikei University of Hiroshima is how each class equips you with skills that continue to support you both now and in the future.

Another transformative experience was the Intensive English Program (IEP) I took during my first year. Instead of learning English only as knowledge, we practiced using it as a tool for real communication. Through repeated, practical training, the psychological barrier I once felt toward using English decreased significantly.

Furthermore, I participated in a study abroad program in Korea through the Experiential and Practical Programs. Engaging in conversation and building mutual understanding with people from different cultural backgrounds offered me a valuable opportunity to develop Global collaboration, one of the five competencies emphasized at Eikei University of Hiroshima.

Facing Myself in an Environment of “Freedom” and “Respect”

Eikei University of Hiroshima offers a free and open atmosphere where students respect each other’s interests and aspirations. It was precisely this environment that allowed me to face myself more deeply. I found myself developing new interests in fields I had never imagined before entering the university, and I was inspired by the activities of my friends. My perspective expanded significantly.

Even when I hesitated, thinking, “This might be too difficult for me,” no one at Eikei University of Hiroshima dismissed my ideas. Instead, I was surrounded by peers and faculty who respected my curiosity. That supportive environment encouraged me to be honest about what I wanted to pursue. Through various experiences and actions, I was able to discover what I truly want to do.

Turning Learning Into Action—and Into Society

After graduating, I will work in a position where I interact daily with international visitors. The English skills I developed in the Intensive English Program (IEP) and the Korean language I learned during my study abroad experience will be strong assets in my work. More than that, I am confident that the problem‑solving skills I acquired through Project-Based Learning (PBL) will be invaluable.

In the workplace, I expect to face unexpected challenges and situations. In those moments, I want to respond flexibly—just as I learned to do at the university—and find solutions that move things forward.

The message I most want to share with future students is this:
“Your possibilities are limitless.”
Be honest with your interests and take that first step. Every learning experience and every action you take will eventually become your strength and lead to contributions to society.