ISHIFU Miyufu | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Program: (ST) Kumamoto “Tradition x Modernity” - Creating a sustainable society
Instructor: UEHARA Yuko

Reasons for Participating in the Program

The reason for my participation was my interest in the content of the survey/research. I am an APM student, but I wanted to deepen my study of tourism, sustainability, and regional revitalization (especially in rural areas) with a view to enhancing my hometown in the future. Furthermore, I hoped to be able to propose a proposal that would help sustain the target company, region, and initiatives in the future, while integrating the business perspective that I have because I am an APM student. I was also attracted by the program’s ability to allow interaction across colleges, academic years, and countries and regions of region.

How the Program Helped You Grow

I was able to gain new perspectives through exchanges across regions of origin, colleges, and academic years, as well as through on-site surveys and research. Proposing solutions to regional and company issues, etc., will be useful in dealing with the barriers and problems I will encounter in the future. In addition, I will enhance my learning on campus by integrating the knowledge of tourism and sustainability that I have gained this time, not only with my undergraduate business-related studies. I will apply the multilateral and logical thinking gained through my research and study to the regional development efforts that I hope to be involved in the future.

Message for Students Interested in The Program

While studying on campus and classroom lectures are of course important, there are so many things you can learn only by going outside and walking around to see and hear things with your own eyes; I believe that Field Study is a way to learn about the history, culture, and other context of the study area and to realize various things through interaction with local people. I would like you to try as many things as you can that you are interested in, regardless of your age or major. Field Study is not only fun, but it can also be difficult and challenging. However, please do your best, believing that you’re learning, encounters, and challenges will lead to your personal growth.