Language ability and confidence influenced my personality: This is the first place in Japan where I feel that I can be myself.

What attracted you to apply from Hong Kong to the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University, and what motivated you to study Global Studies?

Xing YingTo be honest, I moved to Japan because of my parents’ decision. I enrolled at a local high school but first struggled with the language barrier and cultural differences. It was one of my most challenging experiences ever.

Even after I better learned Japanese and the culture, I still feel a gap between those who were raised here and myself. I feel it will never truly disappear, and I have regretted the decision to settle in Japan multiple times. However, ultimately, I became able to see it as a positive change because I understood that my time in Japan provided me with varied backgrounds and that I did not need to force myself to become more “Japanese.”

Following these experiences, I realized that I wanted to pursue my college study in a multi-cultural environment, similar to my hometown, where I could meet different people and connect with them. That is why I chose Global Studies at Ritsumeikan.

After enrolling, how has your perception of the College of International Relations changed?

Xing YingI think this discipline involves far more fields than I expected. I originally thought International Relations was simply about politics or diplomatic relations, but it extends to other global issues as well. I admit I am still learning about this field, but it is broader than I thought.

So far at Ritsumeikan University or in Japan, how do you feel you have grown, what skills have you obtained, and what do you think you have learned?

Xing YingObviously, the most significant skill that I have developed here is English and Japanese. I now have more confidence in my proficiency, which has really helped me make friends and made me less reluctant to speak to locals. Furthermore, I feel I grew to be more independent since coming here.

Language ability and confidence shaped my personality. Until I came to Ritsumeikan, I had never felt truly comfortable and in my own skin. Now I think I restored myself, whom my hometown friends know: talkative and always laughing. This is the first place in Japan where I feel that I can be myself.

Please share your most fulfilling activity or most unforgettable experience so far while at Ritsumeikan University or in Japan.

Xing YingWhat comes to mind is that my most enjoyable experiences are the shared times I have with my friends, road trips, travels, and so on. I constantly doubted myself and wondered why I came here instead of staying in Hong Kong. But since coming to Ritsumeikan, the positive experiences have way outweighed the negative ones.

Could you send some messages to prospective students for the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University?

Xing YingIf you want to explore “diversity,” this would be the place for you. Everyone I’ve met here is so unique and interesting in their own way. The College of International Relations should be a wonderful opportunity to expand your horizons.

October 2024