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Hean Sam Ath
Cambodia
2nd year
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IUJ is truly a global and multi-cultural learning community. IRP students not only can learn from highly distinguished, experienced, and friendly and helpful multi-national professors, but also from students with different back grounds, experience, and knowledge from every corner of the world. IUJ is a great place to study International Relations. The IRP provides a strong analytical base and understanding of world history and current world affairs as well as a strong insight about the future world community. The IRP trains and equips students with knowledge and well-honed skills to become an effective player in their future careers. For me, upon my graduation from IUJ, Ifll find a career with the civil society organizations (CSOs) in Cambodia, and then Ifll think about switching my career to the government. Ifll try to apply all the knowledge and skills I learned here to contribute to the development of my country ? Cambodia. Indeed, Cambodia is in need of highly and well-educated people; therefore, I hope that Ifll be able to actively participate in developing my country. It is my great pleasure and honor that I have a chance to study abroad at such a great learning environment like IUJ.
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Mei Lee Kok
Malaysia
2nd year
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Why did you choose to come to IUJ-IRP?
First and foremost it had always been a dream of mine to study in Japan. My professor at the University of Malaya in Malaysia was a graduate of IUJ and recommended that I apply for an International Relations degree because IUJ students come from different parts of the world. The diverse community of IUJ is very suitable for my international relations course because the interaction with students of different nationalities gives me an opportunity to be exposed and learn more about other countriesf cultures, traditions, ways of life, and the issues that affect them. After graduation I intend to work in Japan and since studying at IUJ provides me exposure to the Japanese culture and language, I believe that this will enhance my chances of being employed in the future.
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ-IRP?
My professors at IUJ are very knowledgeable in the field of International Relations and I was able to learn so much from them. Their teaching methods further stimulate my interest in the field and since the student population comes from different parts of the world, their personal views and experiences that they share are very helpful in getting a much deeper understanding of the subjects we study. Studying at IUJ while in Japan also gives me an opportunity to improve my English as well as my Japanese.
What is your future plan and where does IUJ-IRP fit in your plans?
After graduation, I plan to work in an international organization such as the UN or to become a journalist. I believe that the knowledge and background that I will obtain from an International Relations degree from IUJ will help prepare me in achieving my dreams.
How do you feel to study at IUJ?
I feel like that I made the right choice to come and study at IUJ. The IUJ campus is surrounded by nature, beautiful mountains and rice paddy fields in a rural setting in Japan. The environment here is quiet and conducive for learning and thinking. The atmosphere also promotes camaraderie among the students and you will be able to know everyone in a short time.
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Quyet Huu Nguyen
Vietnam
2nd year
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I chose to come to the International Relation Program at IUJ for a simple reason; IUJ-IRP is said to be one of the best training programs, with highly qualified and well-experienced professors from many parts of the academic world. Having taken a close look at the IR graduate professional program of IUJ, I found it greatly significant to furnish and improve my understanding and analysis of a wide range of issues in international affairs. Thus, I decided to come to IUJ-IRP without hesitation. After one year of studying IRP, I feel increasingly interested since IRP courses have equipped me with not only political and historical knowledge, but also with economic and cultural knowledge in both theoretical frameworks and practical perspectives in global and local contexts to effectively enhance my capacity to analyze and solve problems in international affairs. As a lecturer of English at a university in Vietnam, I plan to go back to Vietnam to continue to pursue my goal as a future lecturer of IRP. IUJ-IRP is therefore becoming more significant to me in a sense that it motivates my ambition enter the academic world and learn experience and profound knowledge from IUJ professors in general and IRP professors in particular to facilitate my teaching skills in the future. In addition, IUJ is the ideal destination, `where the world gathers`. For this reason, I can immerse myself in multicultural communications, understanding many different aspects of cultures, traditions and religions from various parts of the world, which in turn help me improve my capacity to analyze issues and problems in international affairs.
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Mamta Katwal
Bhutan
class of 2009
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IUJ is a splendid place to study international relations. It offers an extensive and diverse IR program taught by highly learned, distinguished and approachable faculty. This is frequently complemented by distinguished guest speakers bringing to us a variety of other academic activities and programs; not to forget the constant and tireless effort and help rendered by the administrative staff. And studying with and among students from over fifty different countries and cultural background is in itself a splendid experience in learning. The sights, sounds and tastes of over fifty countries are often displayed and enjoyed by the students, faculty and the Japanese people in a wide range of extra-curricular activities offered by the university and the study body.
Studying International Relations at IUJ has broadened and deepened my knowledge and understanding about Japan and the Asian Pacific region. International politics and economics around the world have fascinated me. Being here has also enhanced my knowledge about the various problems concerning different aspects of the globalized world and the stand and initiatives taken by international and regional institutions, societies and countries on these issues. It has improved my communication and inter-personal skills. I am proud of how the international relations program has improved my reading habits, taught me to understand, analyze and write better. One cannot forget the excellent Japanese language program offered by the university which is yet another very valuable asset for all IUJ students.
I come from a very small and a developing country- Bhutan. Bhutan is in need of human resource development within the international arena. I consider myself very fortunate for this golden opportunity provided to me by the Asian Development Bank and IUJ. The IR program has made me an asset to my country and I intend to work diligently for my country and contribute in my own small way to the development of my country.
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Gayrat Mazbutov
Tajikistan
class of 2009
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I chose IUJ's International Relations Program because of its truly international student body, which is very important for people who want an international education. The teaching approach in the IRP is truly international, because there are many professors who have different backgrounds and know several languages. I like the close relationship between professors and students in the IR Program, where you can see any professor at any time. During my first year of study, I have acquired a considerable knowledge in the sphere of international relations, developed skills in cross-cultural communications, and made friends with many Japanese, other Asian, and Western people, since IUJ is such a multinational university. I am confident that I have upgraded my personal experience with diverse ideas, practices, and skills in this one year. IUJ's IR Program is a great chance to experience truly international life and study.
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Chinara Esengul
Kyrgyzstan
class of 2007
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Why did you choose to come to IUJ?
My choice of IUJ was not made lightly, and IUJ was not one of several options I considered for getting an MA degree. In fact it was the only university to which I applied. The reason is that IUJ meets the major conditions that I had in mind while thinking about an MA degree. First of all, it has a truly international community, and one needs to experience living in such a community if one wishes to become a specialist in International Relations or International Development. Second, it is located in Japan. Since I have a strong interest in Japanese language and culture, IUJ was a perfect match for me. It combines an MA education with the chance to improve my Japanese and discover the deep and ever-magical culture and traditions of Japan. My expectations were fully met at IUJ. It should be the first option to consider if you have interests similar to mine.
What did you find most helpful in studying at IUJ?
Study as a process, and knowledge as a result; this is the basic logic of any educational process. Coming from this logic, the most helpful aspect of IUJ during my studies here was its challenging environment. By challenging environment I mean both academic and non-academic parts of the IUJ life experience. I have become not only academically more knowledgeable but more mature as an independent person. Two years of interactions with excellent professors, with friends and classmates coming from different cultural backgrounds, with local Japanese people who bring us their beliefs and ways of thinking, warmth and hospitality; all these have enriched me and greatly contributed to the better understanding of myself ? both in terms of professional priorities and human values to live with.
What is your future plan and where does IUJ fit in
your plans?
My future plan is to contribute to the development of my country ? Kyrgyzstan. I know, it sounds naive and simple, but it is true. I would like to work for an international organization in my country where I can fully exercise my academic knowledge and skills as well as act and work according to the principles and values of a truly global human society. IUJ fits in this picture in terms of its international alumni network. This network has great potential to facilitate realization of a future dream many of us hold, a more peaceful and prosperous world. This dream can come true if we have belief, hard work and mutual understanding; IUJ creates a community of young people who dedicate themselves to such virtues.
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Ijilmurun Chuluunbaatar
Mongolia
class of 2007
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For me IUJ was not only a challenging environment for intellectual life, but also a great place to explore so many different cultures and values. The International Relations program, where students and faculty from diverse backgrounds can interact, gives us thorough knowledge about cultures, politics, and economics around the globe and especially the Asia-pacific region. The intensive Japanese language program at all levels, and the helpful career consulting service are valuable assets of IUJ.
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Rotha Chan
Cambodia
class of 2007
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IUJ offers an exceptional environment for study and research through its extensive resources and professional guidance from superb professors. Special seminars, newly established platforms, and various academic activities enrich student life and provide a springboard for studentsf social and career development. At IUJ, students develop a richer cultural perspective and become global citizens. Students not only become specialized in their fields but also can choose to become proficient in Japanese through the universityfs excellent Japanese language program, which is FREE. Another distinct characteristic of IUJ is its cross-registration system where students can register for any course from the universityfs five programs, so best preparing themselves for their future career.
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Emine Goncu
Turkey
class of 2007
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IUJ, as one of our visiting professors would say, is like a little United Nations where people from several different countries gather and form a cultural mosaic. This, above all, is what makes it a unique place especially for a student of International Relations. What is more, the curriculum, with its main focus on Japan and the Asia-Pacific region provides the students of IR with a great opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the Asian world.
The small size of the campus also presents itself as an advantage as it makes it possible for students to access professors easily even outside of class and also enables them to get to know one another in a very short time and become like a big family. In addition, the peaceful location of IUJ in the heart of nature surrounded by chains of mountains and far from the bars and discos of the big cities makes it quite a convenient place for studying. Furthermore, what is striking is the drastic change the campus undergoes with the change of seasons from winter to spring because the amount of snow is so huge that it even surprises the students coming from Scandinavian countries. However, since it stays on the ground for months and months it provides a unique opportunity for ski and snowboarding lovers to enjoy the winter season longer than ever before.
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Linda Kotze
South Africa
class of 2007
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University life at IUJ can be the best experience of a lifetime. It should not be about narrow vocational training only. Life on campus has taught me important life skills for the future such as good decision making skills as well as good time management. I have also had the opportunity to interact with friends from a diversity of countries. As they say, IUJ is the place where the world meets.
Some of the best experiences I have had on this campus were those of meeting friends in the kitchen and arranging cooking nights together. You not only get the opportunity to taste a variety of different foods but also to get to know the people on a personal basis and some parts of their cultures. For some, the first few days on campus may be a bit of a culture shock but soon all is forgotten and IUJers become your extended family members. Life at IUJ is an experience I would not trade for the world.
Campus life may sometimes prove to be stressful with all the workload so my suggestion to prospective students would be to get organised, prioritise schoolwork and take time to relax. Many students find living on campus very exhausting which is true, but it comes with its good side too. Living on campus teaches independence and social skills to interact with peers as well as Professors and in the end; most of us can learn more things being on campus 24/7 than if we live somewhere else.
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Nikola Iliev
Bulgaria
class of 2007
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If you are reading this now, chances are high that you are considering applying to IUJ?a unique international island in Japan. Before coming to IUJ I had high expectations of making friends with people from different countries, exchanging cultures and enjoying life together. Those expectations were completely fulfilled as I found a friendly environment, in which people from over 50 countries live, study, and enjoy life together.
Studying in the IRP of IUJ is a fascinating experience, which gives one a better understanding of the complex world we are living in. The IRP teaches students to be tolerant of others and helps them understand those different from themselves. Studying under the excellent IRP faculty, students improve both their written and communication skills and get prepared to continue their careers or to start new ones. Moreover, the thesis writing process is a personality enriching process, which helps students focus on an area of their interest and dedicate all their efforts to master it.
In the end, I believe that IUJfs IRP is an excellent training ground for both mid-career professionals and fresh university graduates looking to add more depth to their studies and gain research experience. The IRP provides opportunities for students to study both general topics in world politics and focus on a specific area of their interest. I chose the IRP because I expected it to broaden my knowledge and view of the world, and I was not left disappointed. I would definitely advise you to consider the IRP for in IUJ you have the unique opportunity of in fact interacting with people from different countries and debating topics from international politics with people from every continent. In the process of interaction everyone learns and improves their understanding of world politics and people from different countries and cultures. Isnft that what we are all looking for?
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Nguyen Viet Anh
Vietnam
class of 2007
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From my own experience, I would strongly recommend the IR Program at IUJ to those who want to deepen their knowledge in international relations and the Asia-Pacific region.
First, its dynamic curriculum, which covers a wide range of international issues with special attention to the Asia-Pacific region, will help students gain insights into various matters of the contemporary world as well as the region. Students are free to take courses to meet their own needs from a large selection of various courses in the IR program. Students can also take advantage of frequent lectures and seminars conducted by visiting professors and VIPs, which provide them a better understanding of Japan and other complex issues of the world today.
Second, what makes the IRP at IUJ unique as compared to other institutions is its family-like sense. Here in IUJ, we have formed a close community of professors, students and staff. There seem to be no barriers to us. Frequent interactions, not only in the academic field but also in social and daily life, are often made, which help create a relaxing academic environment. I must say that this is quite a stimulant to my study, since I always feel well taken care of and encouraged to achieve my highest academic performance.
Additionally, the truly international environment, the friendly Japanese local people and the very beautiful surroundings of IUJ also give a plus to the IR program. Having a chance to live, study and interact with students coming from more than fifty countries and the Japanese local people in such a resort-like environment is quite an interesting experience.
In short, I have learnt a lot from the IR program. It has not only complemented my academic knowledge but also helped enlarge my vision.
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