The Courage to Embrace New Challenges, Fostered in an Environment Where Diverse Cultures Intersect

The Study Abroad Experience I Couldn’t Have in High School Became the Challenge of My University Years

Before entering Eikei University of Hiroshima, I had a clear goal: to become someone who can thrive internationally. I wanted to interact with people from around the world, understand diverse cultures and values, and communicate confidently in English—the version of myself I had dreamed of becoming.

However, due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, I lost the chance to study abroad in high school. That is why I entered university determined to make it happen this time—to study overseas, experience life abroad, and develop my language skills and global mindset.

A University in Hiroshima Where Diversity Is Truly Felt

I chose Eikei University of Hiroshima because I felt it offered the most diverse environment among universities in Hiroshima. I believed that learning alongside students from a wide range of countries and cultural backgrounds would broaden my worldview.

I was also attracted to the fact that many classes are offered in English, allowing me to develop my English skills while studying academic subjects. Furthermore, having daily opportunities to interact with international students meant I could deepen my intercultural understanding and build friendships around the world. All of this made Eikei University of Hiroshima the right choice for me.

Gaining Confidence in English and Discovering My Own “Questions”

Two major turning points in my university life were the Intensive English Program (IEP) and the course Introduction to the Ethics of Science and Technology.

In the Intensive English Program, all classes were conducted entirely in English. Although the program lasted only two quarters, I could clearly see my improvement—even my TOEFL score reflected it. The supportive environment, where I could immediately ask questions when needed, played a major role. During my first year, I lacked confidence when speaking in English, but this program became the starting point of real change for me.

Another turning point was the class Introduction to the Ethics of Science and Technology. This course helped me discover the direction of my academic interests—it was truly a defining moment. I learned that the AI systems that make our lives more convenient may also carry risks we do not notice; that tools we find “useful” may, in some contexts, cause harm. This class prompted me to think deeply about both the benefits and dangers of modern technologies, eventually shaping the topic of my Degree Project.

“Let’s Take Action!” — Four Years of Growth Inspired by Those Around Me

Throughout my time at the university, my aspirations grew clearer and more positive. I learned not only from classes but also from daily interactions with classmates and faculty members. Hearing about the various challenges other students were taking on naturally motivated me to think, “I should take action too!”

Through the Intensive English Program and daily interaction with international students, I gradually gained confidence in using English. I also developed Global collaboration, one of the five competencies emphasized at Eikei University of Hiroshima—seeing things from a global perspective and working with people from diverse backgrounds.

The frustration of losing my study‑abroad opportunity in high school transformed into motivation. I embraced a continuous learning mindset throughout university—starting with intensive English learning in IEP, actively interacting with international students, finding a topic I cared about through coursework, and finally pursuing it in my Degree Project. These experiences have shaped who I am today.

Becoming Someone Who Supports the Learning of Children Around the World

After graduation, I hope to contribute to society by supporting the learning of children overseas. I have always enjoyed working with children, and through studying English and intercultural understanding at university, I felt increasingly drawn to supporting their education.

I want to help children—especially those who face limited learning opportunities due to language or cultural barriers—experience the joy of learning and the importance of taking on new challenges. My goal is to create environments where every child feels safe and supported in their education. Using the English communication skills and global mindset I developed at Eikei University of Hiroshima, I aim to help expand the future possibilities of children around the world.

Message to Prospective Students and Juniors

Your four years at university are incredibly important. They may seem long, but once they are over, they pass in the blink of an eye. That is exactly why I encourage you to challenge yourself in many different ways.

Experiencing the world firsthand will help you grow in ways you cannot imagine. As you encounter new cultures and values, your worldview will expand, and your mindset will naturally become more positive.

Through overseas experiences, you will gain confidence in yourself and become more proactive and expressive. I hope you will seize the opportunity to try new things, without fear of failure, and create many meaningful experiences that will stay with you for life.