A Path Toward International Educational Support, Guided by Fieldwork

Choosing Eikei University of Hiroshima for Its Global Environment and Active Learning Style

My interest in international educational support began in high school after reading a book about a Japanese person who established a school in Nepal. Through this story, I learned about the reality that many children are unable to access education due to poverty and social structures, and I felt strongly that I wanted to confront this issue. Having been exposed to different countries and cultures from a young age, I naturally developed an interest in both international settings and education, and I began to dream of contributing to global educational support in the future.

I first learned about Eikei University of Hiroshima through a recommendation from my high school teacher. When I explored the university’s website, I found that it offered a learning environment centered on active learning, welcomed many international students, and provided opportunities to study in English. I felt a strong connection between these features and my own interests.

Additionally, because I had frequently presented my opinions in public and taken on leadership roles during high school, I was drawn to an environment where I could learn proactively and collaborate with peers. These elements convinced me that Eikei University of Hiroshima was the right place for me, and I decided to enroll.

Overseas Experiences and Dialogue with Peers Helped Illuminate My Future Path

Since entering Eikei University of Hiroshima, my aspiration evolved from a vague desire “to work in international cooperation” into a more concrete vision for educational development.

Through the education‑related volunteer activities I participated in during the Experiential and Practical Programs in Nepal, I deepened my understanding of the educational disparities between developed and developing countries, as well as the realities faced by children in Nepal. During my Degree Project, I again conducted fieldwork in Nepal and witnessed firsthand the factors that influence educational quality—such as outdated systems and insufficient teacher training. These experiences sparked a clear determination within me: to provide educational support grounded in solid evidence while staying close to the needs of local communities.

In Project-Based Learning (PBL), I engaged in intensive discussions with working professionals and classmates, developing a thought process that allowed me to identify the root causes of complex issues. The approach I learned in PBL—creating value through dialogue—had a significant impact not only on my Degree Project but also on the direction I aim to pursue after graduation.

My Next Step: Taking on the Future of International Education

After graduation, I plan to pursue educational development at a graduate school in the United Kingdom, where I will study issues related to educational disparities and inclusive education. I hope to build on the fieldwork experience I gained at Eikei University of Hiroshima and explore international education from both theoretical and practical perspectives.

In the future, I aim to join the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) and engage in educational support in African regions. By applying the insights gained through on‑site experience, I hope to contribute to creating more effective learning environments. I also plan to learn French and expand my areas of activity so that I can become someone who contributes to solving global educational challenges.

Message to Prospective Students and Juniors

Eikei University of Hiroshima is a place where students with diverse values and backgrounds come together, creating an environment where you can speak openly about your interests and ideas. To those preparing to enroll, I want to say this: even if you don’t yet have the perfect answer, what matters most is having the courage to take the first step.

By taking action, you will encounter new learning experiences and meet peers who will influence you deeply. As you engage with these opportunities, your own themes and passions will naturally take shape. You may face obstacles along the way, but at Eikei University of Hiroshima, you will always find classmates and faculty members who will support you when you need it most.

I hope you will make the most of this environment—one where you can stay true to your interests, engage in meaningful dialogue, and grow together with others.

YONEHARA Mana – EIKEI UNIVERSITY OF HIROSHIMA(Japan)