My life at Ritsumeikan was busy but incredibly fulfilling. The possibilities after graduation are endless—whether you choose to work or continue your academic journey in Japan or elsewhere.

Please share your career after graduation from Ritsumeikan University.

LIN Tzu ChengI joined Oji Holdings Corporation as a fresh graduate. During my three years working at the Tokyo headquarters, I gained experience in proposal-based sales, sourcing, and technical support. In April 2023, I relocated to a subsidiary company in Malaysia. In addition to my work, I am also a part-time student at the University of Nottingham Business School, where I am pursuing a Master of Business Administration.

Please tell us about your current work. What led you to this profession?

LIN Tzu ChengMy current responsibilities include market research and assisting with management tasks for subsidiary companies by preparing financial reports and handling various assignments from headquarters. My expertise has developed primarily through experience and on-the-job training (OJT).

How does your experience while at the College of International Relations benefit you now?

LIN Tzu ChengDuring my time in the Global Studies major, I developed a strong languages skills, gained a deep understanding of various culture, and learned how to collaborate with people from different backgrounds. These experiences have helped me adapt easily to cross-cultural environments. Now, living in Kuala Lumpur, a multicultural city, I speak Japanese with staff at the Tokyo headquarters and Japanese expatriates, Mandarin with Chinese Malaysian colleagues, and English with Malay and Indian Malaysian coworkers. Additionally, the broad range of courses I took sharpened my critical thinking and built a solid foundation of knowledge, which has been instrumental in developing my professional skills.

In my final year of study, I participated in an exchange program at the University of Hong Kong, where I attended a recruitment session for my current company. Studying aboard allowed me to view Japan from a different perspective, and the opportunity to explore new academic subjects influenced my career path decisions.

When looking back on your days at Ritsumeikan University, how do you find the College of International Relations attractive?

LIN Tzu ChengFirst, students can enroll without needing prior Japanese language skills, as all the curriculum is in English. Daily Japanese lessons are offered, and I was able to progress from having almost no Japanese ability to achieving business-level fluency within four years. Academic English classes are also provided, which are important for non-native English speakers to succeed.

Second, there is a wide range of English-taught courses available, and students can choose based on their interests and time management. Global Studies students can also take courses taught in Japanese (with some requirements).

Third, many courses encourage students to engage in discussions, fostering critical thinking and open-mindedness towards different perspectives. Assessments are typically based on presentations and written assignments rather than cramming for exams.

Lastly, there are numerous opportunities outside the classroom, such as long-term and short-term study abroad programs, overseas study trips, cultural experience activities, volunteering, job-hunting support, seminars (I highly recommend the Honors Program), and student circles/clubs.

My life at Ritsumeikan was busy but incredibly fulfilling. The possibilities after graduation are endless—whether you choose to work or continue your academic journey in Japan or elsewhere.

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

LIN Tzu ChengYou may not yet know your future path or what your passions and interests are, but don’t hesitate to join the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University. The friendly staff will provide you with comprehensive support, and a wide array of opportunities awaits you.

November 2024