Japanese
Japanese

Voices of International Students

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RIBEIRO FALC?O LORRANA

Doctoral Program in Education, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences

From Brazil

What sparked your interest in this university?

University of Tsukuba is one of the few universities in Japan that offers the International Baccalaureate program within its Master's in Education degree program. Besides this fact, the professors' research areas were also a decisive factor that led me to choose University of Tsukuba to pursue my master's degree. Last but not least, the presence of a big Brazilian community and the Association of Brazilian Students of the University of Tsukuba (AEBUT) made me feel safer in my choice. Of course, other factors such as the geographical location, campus size, and available dorms upon arrival influenced my decision to choose the University of Tsukuba, as these are things that can impact your perception when you first arrive in Japan and overall experience and adaptation to the new life.

What aspects of Japanese culture or customs surprised you? How did you adapt to them?

As I had lived in Japan when I was younger, I can say I was mostly adapted to the major differences and didn't really experience culture shock like most international students might get when they first arrive in Japan. That being said, there were still many things I had to get used to and understand in order to adapt better as an adult with different responsibilities in a graduate degree. The Seminar culture as well as the relationship with laboratory/seminar peers and professors are also different than what I was used to, but I realised that communication and explanation are still the best way to avoid cultural misunderstandings and align cultural differences.

What do you enjoy about Tsukuba?

Tsukuba City is extremely well-located and peaceful at the same time. The city is a balance between being convenient and having everything you need to live comfortably, and still having lots of nature and beautiful landscapes. The Tsukuba Express and the University/Tokyo bus make it very convenient to go frequently to Tokyo city if needed for events or entertainment. Another plus is that living expenses are more affordable than in other cities near Tokyo. Because of the presence of the university and the amount of international students, I feel like the city is more receptive to foreigners in comparison to other cities in Japan, having services to aid with the language barrier for essential services.

What do you hope to achieve during your time here?

I love the University of Tsukuba's motto, "Imagine the Future," and it guides my research and life in the university. I hope I can be a student with a positive presence at the university, that I can help people from my community and other international students feel welcomed, and help them any way I can, to share my culture and language with the Japanese (and other international) students, to bridge our countries and create an atmosphere of appreciation for our differences. Of course, I want to achieve high levels of ethically guided research that can impact society and promote social justice.

What do you think makes the University of Tsukuba special?

The first thing that comes to my mind is how green the university is. It is extremely refreshing to be in a smoke-free campus surrounded by so much nature. I love how the whole campus has flowers, trees, and animals roaming around; it creates a peaceful atmosphere that is great for studying. The University professors and staff are incredibly welcoming as well, helping in any way possible the adaptation of new students, foreigners, and nationals. The presence of the clubs, circles, and the international students' association makes life on campus more lively and welcoming.