|
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
Akio Kusakabe
Japan
2nd year
|
|
Time flies like an arrow. The days I spent in IUJ were exactly like this proverb; my classmates and I have put a great deal of painstaking effort into study this year, and we also have put our all energies into unforgettable events and activities such as IUJ Open day. Now, I am grateful that I have had a good opportunity to study and good friends.
After one year of rigorous study in IDP and a full life in IUJ, I am convinced that we have grown up as global citizens. Although the first year curriculum of IDP was tough and busy, I am so satisfied with the good environment where I can learn not just about academic classes but also about the cultures of my friends from all over the world. Even though IUJ is located in a rural area of Japan, I can promote my understanding about foreign countries through my friends, and sometimes from them I am taught what Japan is and how Japan looks to foreigners.
Almost all my classmates in IDP are from Asian countries that are developing dramatically and they are the elite of their countries. Coming in touch with their attitude toward study and life, I really feel the potential energy in Asia, and I am so proud that I can share the same time and experience in IUJ with them.
IDP provides us with the analytical skills and knowledge that we need. The first-year curriculum in IDP is designed to cover principal methodologies in order to help us to complete our theses. It covered basic economic theory to advanced econometrics; its coverage was very wide and deep.
Every course was very organized and systematic, and left some key messages in our brains in a logical manner. For example, gEnvironmental Economicsh told us the reason why economists are supporting marketable permits, and made me think which measure is desirable in society in order to reduce emissions. gResearch Methodologyh expanded our methodology skills, teaching the significance of gspatial dependenceh.
I do believe that what I learn in IUJ will give me a solid foundation for subsequent work as a business person, and the friendship with my classmates will be an invaluable legacy in my life.
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
Thi Thuy Hang Nguyen
Vietnam
2nd year
|
|
When I first came to the IUJ campus, I was amazed at its peaceful beauty. Our school is surrounded by hot springs, mountains, forests, and rice fields. This peaceful atmosphere at IUJ makes it a wonderful place for studying. I really like the vision of students from more than 50 countries gathering in the middle of a valley in Japan to study, to establish network connections and to explore the rest of the world together.
Unlike its relaxing surroundings, academic life at IUJ is challenging. My first year in the IDP program was flooded with assignments, quizzes, presentations, papers, and exams. However, with great guidance from enthusiastic professors, the tough program made my effort much more rewarding. After one year, I realized that my economics understanding had been improved greatly in terms of both theory and practice. I strongly believe that the knowledge and skills I have gained from IUJ will enable me to advance my career in the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Vietnam upon graduation.
IUJ campus life is very enjoyable. Only-in-IUJ events such as Open day and Asian Night highlight its international diversity with traditional customs, food, music and dance from every corner of the globe. Most of the students live on campus so we have great opportunities to know each other well in daily life. The friends I meet and the time we are together in IUJ are invaluable in making my life more meaningful.
After one year studying at IUJ, I know I made the right decision to come here. If I had to choose again, I would still choose IUJ for its peaceful surroundings, high education quality and international diversity.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Shieikh Touhidul Haque
Bangladesh
2nd year
|
|
The IDP Program at the Graduate School of International Relations (GSIR) attracts creative and dedicated students who wish to pursue enlightening careers. To improve my analytical and research ability on economic and development issues, I chose the IDP program in IUJ. After completion of my first year of study, I realize students who wish to complete this program will understand and be able to articulate, both orally and in writing, the core economic principles, concepts and theories that form the foundation of modern economic analysis and economic research for various development issues.
Since I am a government employee, the knowledge I am acquiring in this program will help me formulate and implement economic and public policy issues more conveniently in the context of the socioeconomic development of my country. I believe the experiences of IUJ encourage me to develop a critical and inquiring attitude, an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of subject areas, acceptance of persons of different backgrounds or values, and a deepened sense of self. I am enjoying my IUJ life very much because within IUJfs student life, there are literally hundreds of options for student involvement ranging from student associations, community service, student employment, club sports, the open day program and many other student activities. IUJfs Vast range of cultural, educational, athletic and social activities helped me to get involved in campus life within the shortest time.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Nina Reys
Philippines
class of 2009
|
|
Why did you choose to come to IUJ?
I chose to study at IUJ for a variety of reasons. First, I was impressed by IUJfs programs, curriculum and faculty. IUJ offers a wide range of subjects which enhance studentsf quantitative and analytical skills. Similarly, the profile of the schoolfs teaching staff is notable as the professors are experienced in their respective fields. Further, looking at IUJfs website, the beautiful scenery around the university and the welcoming environment for international students also made a good impression on me. Lastly, I chose IUJ for its diversity, I thought that IUJfs environment would complement my personality and varied interests.
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ?
Being away from home has challenges of its own. It takes some time to get used to living in a foreign country and adjusting to being a student again. The support of my sempais (Japanese term for elders or seniors) and fellow classmates were crucial to my life at IUJ. Similarly, the faculty and staff of IUJ are very helpful. Professors are approachable and accommodating, while the office staff is eager to help us even with non-academic matters (e.g. travel arrangements, local events, etc). Living on campus also has a lot of great benefits. The schoolfs facilities such as computer rooms, network connections, online databases and the library are easily accessible to students and are very useful to my studies.
What is your future plan? And were does IUJ fit in your plans?
As a JDS scholar, I will definitely return to my country and continue working with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (formerly Central Bank of the Philippines). I want to apply the research skills and other knowledge I have acquired from IDP in my work. The courses I took relating to finance and economics will certainly be a big help, especially since I am working as an External Debt Specialist for the Central Bank. Furthermore, I have plans of teaching in one of the universities in my country. My masterfs in International Development is essential to my plan of entering academe.
How do you feel to study at IUJ, etc.
After a year of studying, I have become accustomed to life at IUJ and I very much appreciate my courses, the pace of life here, and the conveniences that I probably wonft get at other universities. IDP is very challenging but the rewards of learning are well worth the effort. I have learned so much at IUJ, not just about academics but also about the cultures of other people. I have acquired skills in communicating and working with a diverse community. This experience has truly enriched me in many ways.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Zhou Jianhuan
China
class of 2009
|
|
An Exciting College of Challenge
Time passes quickly and quietly, and I have spent a wonderful year studying economics on the beautiful campus of IUJ. The Graduate School of International Relations (GSIR), as well as the International Development Program (IDP), have offered me a unique experience. The past academic year has been unforgettably exciting and challenging for me.
Located in a rural area, the campus is a haven of peace and tranquility; meanwhile, IUJ boasts a diversity of international cultures, having students with more than fifty nationalities and faculty members from more than ten countries. This provides me with a great opportunity to share ideas with and learn from people from all over the world. I have participated enthusiastically in IUJ Open Day, ASEAN Night, the IUJ Olympics, and many other memorable events. I have greatly enjoyed@communicating with people. GSIR people, regardless of whether they are professors or students, which country they are from, or what cultural backgrounds they have, are all proud of themselves and friendly to others. We live side by side on campus, and we have great fun together. The past year has really cheered me up.
However, IDP is more demanding than I expected, though there is a lot of rejoicing at obtaining knowledge and skills. I did expect this program to be difficult because I had no academic background, only an interest in economics before I arrived at IUJ in an uncertain mood. Fortunately, the curriculum is designed in an effective way so that the courses are understandable and interesting, and all my professors are highly responsible and ready to help when it is necessary, though they are very strict and serious most of the time. IDP challenges me to read as much as possible and think on my own, which has truly stimulated me to comprehend fully what I learn in class and understand deeply what is happening in the society surrounding me. Knowledge without understanding is meaningless to a graduate student, after all. GSIR frequently organizes workshops and seminars for students with various interests. Besides, there is a functional library on campus, where I can easily access information that I am in need of or interested in. All of these have significantly helped me face the challenges and become more and more confident but thoughtful.
The year of excitement and challenging work I have experienced makes me believe that it is hardly possible, perhaps, to find in Asia a better place than IUJfs GSIR to study international relations or development. GSIR has indeed arrived on the academic elite stage and will stay on the right track for a long time.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Van Anh
Nguyen
Vietnam
class of 2008
|
|
Why did you choose to come to IUJ?
I was searching the Internet to find a higher education opportunity where I could improve myself in an international environment. As I read about IUJ on its website, I knew that this was the place I wanted and I needed: students coming from 50 countries worldwide, sharing cultural values and opinions; internationally accredited curricula; 5 separate but interconnected programs, covering almost all emerging issues of the modern world; the possibility of cross-registration among programs to broaden studentsf understanding; strong support from an Alumni network and partner organizations; a promising 2-year time to get to know, understand, and enjoy Japanese life and culture.
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ?
IUJ provides the opportunity of participating in academic and daily contact with people from all regions and nations, which brings about a profound understanding of the world and its emerging issues. Group discussion is the most effective way of learning here at IUJ, since it challenges studentsf logic and helps train their communication skills. Last but not least, the effectiveness and helpfulness of IUJfs administrative staff also play an important part in providing students a good study environment.
What is your future plan? And were does IUJ fit in your plans?
With a focus on development, I seek for a career with international NGOs, who are the most active sector in addressing issues related to the field. IUJ is just the place where I prepare myself and be ready for the next step in my career pursuits.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Neal Detert
USA
class of 2008
|
|
Enjoying a close relationship with ADB, the International University of Japan is a highly accredited and leading graduate-level university in the region. With a faculty of deeply experienced, knowledgeable, and recognized leading professionals, the International Development program at IUJ maintains the most advanced, comprehensive, and challenging English based masterfs curriculum in the region. IUJ also presents an impressive level of diversity with over 50 countries represented in its student body, lending to an environment of true international cooperation, understanding, and multicultural perspectives. As an American citizen I chose to study in Japan at IUJ because of this diverse environment and their solid commitment to and competence regarding developmental issues focusing especially in the Asia-Pacific region.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Helena
Odendaal
South Africa
class of 2008
|
|
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ?
Being so many nationalities together breeds an atmosphere where
different world views can be exchanged. At IUJ I have the luxury of
getting first-hand information on how life is lived in other parts of
the world.
What is your future plan? And were does IUJ fit in your plans?
IUJ has an excellent Career Services Centre with an experienced
career counselor to assist you on your career path. My plan is to
work in Japan after graduation and thanks to Career Services, I
was introduced to different industry networks and managed to get an
internship at an investment bank in Tokyo for the summer break.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Max John
Wengawenga
Malawi
class of 2007
|
|
Why did you choose to come to IUJ?
IUJ was my top choice because I was looking for a reputable University where I could acquire advanced skills in conducting development related research. After searching across the globe, I found that IUJ has well qualified professors, a vast collection of academic resource materials and an impressive record of producing leaders in various professional fields operating in all corners of the world.
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ?
The most helpful thing I found about IUJ is the sharing of experiences among students from over fifty countries on development challenges like poverty, conflict and global warming, which the world is facing. In class discussions, it was very fascinating to note various approaches taken by various countries on tackling these development challenges and from those discussions, we learnt a lot from each other.
What is your future plan? And were does IUJ fit in your plans?
After IUJ I plan to return to my country, Malawi, and take an active role in offering advice to the government on development issues by applying the skills I gained in my two-year study in the Development Program. I also look forward to extending my services further to other countries that are working towards sustainable development to make the world a better place for everyone.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Ahmet Suayb
GUNDOGDU
Turkey
class of 2007
|
|
IUJ is a very good place for those who prefer English-taught courses and still want to learn about Japan and its culture. I chose IUJ because I wanted to learn Japanese while getting training in economics related subjects. After attending IUJfs Japanese courses for one year, I was able to communicate in every day life without any difficulty. In addition, I found the IUJ campus location to be an almost perfect place for those who are academically oriented. The silent atmosphere of IUJ provided me with a very good environment during my studies in Japan. I should also note that ski resorts around the campus make skiing a very convenient pastime. While studying at IUJ I had chances to visit Thailand and Hawaii for a UN internship and an academic conference. Students get these kinds of opportunities often at IUJ. After IUJ, I will attend Virginia Tech for a PhD in economics
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Cao Thi
Cam Van
Vietnam
class of 2006
|
|
I had obtained a bachelorfs degree in economics and had been working for a multinational company for three year when I thought of attaining a higher education. I realized that my lifefs goal is not simply getting a job to earn income. As a citizen of a developing country, my utmost career goal in this globalization era is to work on economic development-related issues in an international organization, a research institute, or a consulting firm, etc. I came to know about IUJfs International Development Program and carefully studying its detail curriculum made it clear that it is exactly what I need to develop my own career path. It is because IDP is a masters-degree program in economics focusing on international development issues.
Even if your background is not economics, it is good for you to study at IUJ because there are prerequisite courses to build up and consolidate your knowledge in economics. Actually, many classmates of mine who majored in mathematics, econometrics, and the like are doing well with their studies. In the first year, you will mainly be equipped with skills of mathematics, research methodology, and quantitative analysis.
The first-year curriculum of IDP is very challenging. You will have chances to work with many demanding professors who always make you work until you are exhausted to elicit all your effort towards the best result. Then, they can become your partners in a soccer team, your rivals on the tennis court or they will sing together with you in a karaoke party. Those great outside activities help relax you from hard studying.
Though located in an isolated place far from big cities, inside IUJ, you are able to enjoy a full range of convenient services necessary for your campus daily life. There are three study terms in one academic year, each term is short enough for you to concentrate completely on a very challenging curriculum. Then, during vacations between terms, you can travel around Japan, get fresh and be back to IUJ ready for a new study term, a new challenge. That is what I am experiencing at IUJ.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Hiroshi
Kanda
Japan
class of 2006
|
|
gInternational University of Japan??h This was my first impression when my sponsoring company offered to let me take the entrance examination for IUJ. Before that, I had not known much about the International University of Japan (IUJ), and I felt somewhat puzzled since student life seemed to be quite different from my daily business life. However, now I cannot help feeling pleasure that I am staying and studying in such an international environment even though this school is not located in a foreign country but inside Japan.
I think one of the traits of IUJ, needless to say, must be this "Highly internationalized environment". You may have difficulty finding other professional schools are as deeply internationalized as IUJ in Japan. Also, IUJ has many students from Asian countries that are developing dramatically. This point is also an advantage of IUJ compared to the environment at American or European graduate schools. Through life at IUJ, I believe that this diversity will lead me to a more substantial future career.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Videla Maria
Laura
Argentina
class of 2006
|
|
My name is Laura and my home town is Buenos Aires, Argentina. Despite my background studies in International Relations I am now studying in the International Development Program (IDP). The reason why I chose the IDP program is because it has always been my aspiration to join efforts on development issues in developing economies. Since many countries are still struggling with democratic governance and economic crisis I am certain that a better understanding of those issues will help me contribute to improving those critical situations.
Even though the first part of the program was extremely busy and tough, I am glad to say it helped me gain an excellent gtool kith, specifically accentuating the quantitative research skills I needed to add more value to my professional prospects.
Surely, the most amazing opportunity IUJ brings to students is not limited to academic life but is the incredible chance to live and meet so many people from all over the world. Knowledge gained in the classroom is never finished once classes are over. I re discovered myself learning from people from many different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives.
In addition, for those interested in learning the Japanese language, IUJfs Language Program is a chance that cannot be missed. Even though it is an intensive program and it does require commitment from your side, you will definitely feel rewarded at the end. All your progress can be proven when you interact with local people and during your trips to Tokyo, Niigata, Osaka, Hiroshimac.There is so much about Japan that you will discover!
Regarding professional aspects, and thanks to the network that IUJ has built and keeps developing, many internships and job opportunities are being offered at IUJ.
In my case, I have the chance to work for a Japanese company and for the United Nations (UNCRD) during the summer.
The chance to change your life is out there waiting for you. With your eyes wide open, you will find how new perspectives can enrich your life. IUJ can help you find the right path for your career and make the best of your time in Japan.
I truly found the opportunity to study at IUJ a wonderful experience!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Sak Sambath
Cambodia
class of 2006
|
|
It has been very interesting to study at the International University of Japan (IUJ). The true beauty of IUJ is the diversity of its students and faculty members where students are able to acquire necessary knowledge and skills not only from professors but also students from different countries with different backgrounds.
The curriculum of the International Development Program (IDP) is unique. Students are equipped with a solid foundation, both quantitative and qualitative, in the first year, while in the second year a variety of courses can be selected. Also, students can participate in many discussions as well as presentations made by entrepreneurs, business leaders and professional people from various organizations. Being a first-year student of IDP, I have acquired invaluable knowledge and skills which are extremely useful for my career development.
Life at IUJ is magnificent and meaningful. Sharing onefs own culture with friends from different countries is one opportunity; making friends not only with students of IUJ but also exchange students from around the world is another. In addition, activities and interactions with the local community have been enjoyable. Easy access to the school facilities as well as various sports facilities is even more interesting for the life of IUJ students.
The recent introduction of the International Peace Studies Program (IPSP) will actually enable students to obtain potential knowledge and skills necessary for solving emerging global problems. With its internationally recognized curriculum, IPSP will also provide students with the opportunity to analyze the linkage between peace and development. Development cannot be achieved without peace.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
