A University Where Friends from Different Paths and Fields Support Each Other’s Dreams

Drawn to an Environment Where I Could Utilise My Strength in English — Joining as a First Generation Student

I grew up in Hiroshima City and had been actively involved in peace‑related activities since junior high school. Because of this background, I entered Eikei University of Hiroshima with the hope of working in a field related to peace—such as an international organisation or a governmental office in Hiroshima. I also wanted to make use of my strength in English in my future career.

My decision to choose Eikei University of Hiroshima began when I participated in a panel discussion hosted by Prefectural University of Hiroshima. A staff member from the university’s establishment preparation office approached me after seeing how I spoke during the event. I was drawn to the idea of taking classes conducted in English and to the opportunity to help shape a new university as part of its first cohort. That encouragement and those possibilities motivated me to enrol.

Inspired by Highly Skilled Peers and Gaining New Perspectives

Once my studies began, I quickly realised how limited my own perspective had been. Through classes that emphasised multiple viewpoints, I learnt that even though I had my own ideas about how peace could be achieved, turning those ideas into reality would require overcoming far more challenges than I had imagined. This experience deepened my understanding of how essential it is to look at issues from various angles.

In addition, the Intensive English Program (IEP) I took after enrolment pushed me to new heights. Although I had always been confident in my English skills, many of my classmates possessed far higher levels of proficiency. Their presence motivated me tremendously. Studying alongside such peers significantly improved my practical English abilities.

Because we communicated in English on a daily basis—both inside and outside of class—I developed practical language skills that are difficult to acquire in Japan. Being constantly inspired by peers with strong language abilities helped me cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and growth, something I now treasure greatly.

Discovering a New Goal and Moving Towards the Next Stage

As I studied alongside students from different countries, my aspirations gradually began to shift. One particularly impactful experience was serving as a Student Assistant in English Medium Instruction (EMI) courses. Supporting students with diverse values and backgrounds helped me develop strong Global Collaboration, one of the five competencies emphasised at Eikei University of Hiroshima. This experience inspired me to pursue the field of language education, which I had long been interested in. I even challenged myself by taking on interpreting work during my studies, turning what I learnt into real‑world practice.

After graduation, I plan to enrol in the Graduate School of International Studies at Hiroshima City University, specialising in language studies. In graduate school, I hope to deepen my understanding of linguistics and education while also researching EMI courses at Eikei University of Hiroshima and the broader practice of English Medium Instruction in Japan. Through these efforts, I hope to contribute to the development of higher education in Japan.

Message to Prospective Students and Juniors

I encourage you to use English actively on campus. Language is something that cannot truly be mastered through knowledge alone—real progress comes from actually using it. Eikei University of Hiroshima offers an environment where you can take classes in English and learn alongside peers from various nationalities and backgrounds. It would be a shame not to make the most of this opportunity.

You may forget the detailed knowledge you gained in class years from now, but the experiences of using English will remain with you as real, lasting abilities.

For me, Eikei University of Hiroshima was a wonderful place where I met like‑minded peers who supported each other’s dreams, even as our paths and fields of interest differed. I hope you, too, will step into this environment and discover your own unique path together with your peers.

G7 Hiroshima SummitーActivities of Eikei University Studentsー