I participated in the Peace Studies Seminar and engaged in meaningful discussions with peers who shared a commitment to deepening our understanding of peacebuilding and broadening our perspectives.

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

KristenOne of the biggest appeals for me when I decided to apply to the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University was the opportunity to interact with a diverse community of international students. As someone from Singapore, although it is a multicultural and multiracial country, it is also a small island nation where there is not often a chance to converse with people from other parts of the world in an academic setting. Therefore, being able to exchange opinions and knowledge with students from all over the world was one of my priorities when selecting where to pursue higher academia.

My motivation to study global studies stemmed from my curiosity and desire to learn more about global events developing around the world. As mentioned, Singapore is a small country where I often felt like I was living in a secure bubble, ignorant of what was happening outside the country. I recognize that it is a privilege to live in such a safe and prosperous environment; however, as I gradually started paying more attention to global news, I came to realize the importance of being well-informed about international affairs. In the modern world, where states are interconnected yet diplomatic relationships between them are volatile, any significant event that happens even across the world can have multilateral implications, even on a small state like Singapore. Hence, I felt inclined to study global studies to further inform myself about international relations and how they affect our lives on an individual and collective scale.

What attracted you to participate in the Peace Studies Seminar?

KristenTruthfully, I have always wanted to visit Hiroshima for the same objectives of the peace studies seminar, which is to learn firsthand about the atomic bombing through visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the A-bomb dome. The peace studies seminar not only offered the opportunity to visit these sites but also the chance to participate in other significant events such as the Peace Memorial Ceremony, a United Nations symposium, and a dialogue session at the UNITAR office. I was able to exchange views and engage in meaningful discussions with many other intellectual individuals who had a similar desire to enhance our understanding of peacebuilding and widen our perspectives. It was a humbling experience being surrounded by so many individuals who were so proactive in sharing and learning from one another, which had honestly inspired me to take more initiative in my own learning approach. Consequently, my peers had inadvertently influenced me to stretch myself by being more outspoken for the causes or ideas that I believe in and having the confidence to advocate for them.

Please share your most impressive things and/or what you learned in the Hiroshima fieldwork.

KristenAs I learnt of the unimaginable tragedy and lasting repercussions of nuclear weapons, I also realized how peace is paramount to all across a micro and macro scale. In the contemporary world, where international relations are unstable and unpredictable, we need to be well-equipped with adequate knowledge and expertise to play an active role in society, to contribute to peacekeeping efforts. As a student studying global studies, I recognize that peace is not as simple as it sounds due to the complexity of all international actors involved. However, we must always stay vigilant and rational so that we can move towards a more peaceful world in the future.

The most unforgettable experience I have had while at Ritsumeikan University is undoubtedly the hibakusha (A-bomb victim) testimony sharing event in Hiroshima during the 80th anniversary commemoration of the atomic bombing. Many times, I was close to shedding tears while listening to the raw and heart-piercing words of the grandmother who shared her personal experience surviving through the tragedy. The activity was sentimental as it evoked a mix of emotions in me, such as sympathy, helplessness, and hope. However, it was also a fortunate once in a lifetime experience for me to be able to understand the horrifying nature of nuclear weapons and the possible outcomes of global instability and conflict, through a firsthand account. It was fulfilling in that I was able to learn of so many details that I would have otherwise never known, even from secondary academic research. It provided me with a grassroots-level sense of involvement where I was truly immersed throughout the session, consuming the new information I could learn and reflect upon.

KristenAnother important thing I learned during the Hiroshima fieldwork is that fieldwork in general is difficult to plan and conduct due to the many variables that one must consider, on top of the many unforeseen circumstances that may occur, such as weather, logistical, or even traffic conditions. This realization made me aware of the immense effort and meticulous planning required for all procedures to be carried out smoothly, which is why I admired and was grateful towards my lecturer, Professor Kobayashi, Ms. Ogawa, and the staff members at the Office of International Relations who made this seminar possible.

How will your experiences in this course influence your study, activities, career and/or life?

KristenThe experience in this course has inspired me to deepen my knowledge of world history, enabling me to learn about how modern international relations have evolved through past events that have unfolded. It also influenced the way I think, guiding me to be more open-minded in embracing varying perspectives while also voicing my own viewpoint. Therefore, I hope to continue engaging in meaningful conversations even in the classroom, where I get to exchange new ideas and perspectives with my peers.

Additionally, this experience has taught me to count my blessings and appreciate all that I have in life, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Instead of always dwelling on what could have been or what I lack, I will strive to be more optimistic and grateful for all the opportunities and kindness I receive and hopefully radiate this energy of positivity and gratitude to my surroundings.

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

KristenI hope to encourage prospective students to always step out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves in any way possible, regardless of how small or big an effort they may perceive it takes. It is a privilege to be in such a diverse environment at the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University, both academically and lifestyle-wise. Hence, I hope students will take advantage of this opportunity to be open-minded and learn from their peers and enrich themselves in both their personal and academic growth. Although I have learned so much in the classroom, outside of it, I have gained much newfound knowledge from conversations with friends from all walks of life. That is why I think apart from studying hard, it is also important to build valuable relationships where you can share your opinions and even hardships with one another. Additionally, I would also like to recommend prospective students to have as much fun as they can while experiencing the unique life that Kyoto has to offer while studying in Ritsumeikan University, and to always have a curious heart for learning, so you can enjoy a fulfilling college and life journey here in Japan.

November 2025