An Environment Where Students Respect Each Other’s Values and Grow Together

A Place Where Social Issues Can Be Addressed Head‑On

Before entering Eikei University of Hiroshima, I was studying educational psychology at a university in Shizuoka Prefecture. However, I decided to withdraw in my second year and enroll again at Eikei University of Hiroshima. At that time, I strongly wanted to help create a society where animals could live happily, but I did not yet know what path I should pursue to achieve that goal. At my previous university, talking about my interest in animal welfare or veganism often made me stand out, and I found it difficult to express the values that were truly important to me.

The turning point came when I saw a puppy that had been “discounted” at a pet shop. The reality of a life being treated as a product shocked me deeply. As I began researching the issue, I learned about the conditions surrounding live animal sales and livestock slaughter, which prompted me to think more deeply about animal rights. This led me to choose veganism myself and to explore what I could do to help advance animal welfare.

It was during this period of searching that I discovered Eikei University of Hiroshima. The moment I viewed the university’s website, I felt intuitively that “this might be a place where my interests are valued and where I can meet peers who also engage earnestly with social issues.” I was drawn to the curriculum, which centers on identifying and solving issues, and offers students the opportunity to approach complex social themes proactively. I became convinced that this was a place where I could deepen my focus on animal welfare while gaining the ability to engage society—and that is why I decided to enroll.

Expressing My True Self Through Dialogue and Discussion with Peers

The two experiences that influenced me most at Eikei University of Hiroshima were the Jump Start Workshop (JSW) and Project-Based Learning (PBL).

The Jump Start Workshop is an introductory program consisting of various orientations and two intensive introductory courses: Introduction to Social System Design and Introduction to Problem-Solving.

Right after enrollment, we were asked to give a five‑minute presentation. I decided to speak about veganism—something that had been difficult to talk about openly in my previous environment. But at Eikei University of Hiroshima, I received empathy from classmates who said, “I’ve experienced something similar,” along with many sincere questions. It was the first time I felt, “This is a place where I can be myself.”

In Project-Based Learning (PBL), teams work on themes provided by companies, governmental institutions, NGOs, and international organizations. We analyze issues, engage in team discussions, and develop feasible proposals. The emphasis on considering the user’s perspective—not just logical reasoning—directly influenced the approach I later took in my Degree Project. The ability to shape value through dialogue has become a core strength that guides me even now.

Through my university learning, my aspirations evolved and became more concrete. Before entering the university, my thoughts were limited to “I want to do something for animals.” However, through PBL and ongoing discussions with diverse peers, I came to understand the importance of Global collaboration—building proposals that respect the viewpoints of others while working toward shared goals. I learned that advancing animal welfare requires approaches grounded not only in my personal values but also in the perspectives of stakeholders and the realities of implementation.

The greatest growth I gained at Eikei University of Hiroshima is that I can now actively ask myself:
“What can I offer society to help protect the rights of animals?”
This ability to think proactively and constructively about my role is the foundation for the path I will continue to pursue.

Raising Awareness of Animal Welfare and Expanding the Value Choices Available to Children

Through overseas field visits and hands-on experience at an NGO during my time at Eikei University of Hiroshima, I came to understand that issues related to animal welfare vary greatly depending on the country and its cultural background. In order to spread awareness of animal rights and the idea that veganism is one possible choice, I hope to engage in awareness activities that promote harmonious coexistence between humans and animals after graduation.

My ultimate goal is to become an educator who leaves future generations with more options. I want to bring opportunities for children to learn about and think about animal welfare to schools across Japan by continuing awareness activities in elementary and junior high schools nationwide. To achieve this, I plan to first build my own track record through my activities, transform the practical methods I develop in the field into educational materials, and pass on “values that can be chosen” and concrete options for action to the next generation.

Message to Prospective Students and Juniors

Eikei University of Hiroshima is a place that fits both those who “have not yet decided what they want to pursue” and those who “already have a strong sense of purpose.” What truly matters is not entering with the perfect answer, but having the courage to take even a small step forward.

In Project-Based Learning (PBL) and the Experiential and Practical Programs, you will inevitably encounter challenges. At those times, the greatest strength of Eikei University of Hiroshima is the presence of peers you can rely on—people you can talk to, seek advice from, and learn with.

I hope you will make full use of this environment, where you can exchange differing opinions, respect one another, and grow together.

KIMURA Ayano