OKA Ayane | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Program: (ST) APU Global Research Program (AGR)
*Conducted as APU Global Research Program until 2023FA
Instructor: TODOROKI Hiroshi

Reasons for Participating in the Program

The reason I applied for APU Global Research Program (AGR)* is that I found it attractive to be able to decide on a research theme ourselves. As part of the APU program, I thought it would be exciting to receive support from professors while proactively researching questions that align with my interests, which strengthened my desire to participate. In addition, I had already completed Korean IV and wanted to take the next step and conduct research using Korean language, so I decided to apply for this program to give it a try.

*APU Global Research Program (AGR); Implemented till AY2023 as a Field research program; from AY2024, it will be implemented within the framework of Field Study.

How the Program Helped You Grow

I am a college of International Management (APM) student, but I formed a group with two senior students from the college of Asia Pacific Studies (APS). Each of us was able to learn about the theme in depth by sharing the knowledge we had acquired so far in the college we each belong to. This experience broadened my learning by exposing me to areas I had not studied much before. In fact, I developed my interest in certain fields through this program. Currently, I am furthering my knowledge in these areas by taking related courses and working part-time in relevant fields.

Additionally, I felt that my language skills improved significantly. Although the program did not require proficiency in the local language, I decided to minimize my use of translation apps during the program. I studied vocabulary and technical terms that I might need for the research and prepared thoroughly before traveling. By using the terms, I had learned and actively communicating during interviews and surveys, I was able to gain deeper insights into local issues and challenges from the perspectives of the local people. Not only learning the language but also using the language to acquire knowledge was highly stimulating and intriguing for me. This experience has inspired me to apply these skills to my future career, and I am currently working towards this goal.

Message for Students Interested in The Program

This program offers an extremely valuable experience to do field research off campus and abroad. Additionally, one of its attractions is the opportunity to have various encounters and interesting experiences beyond the research itself. It is perfect not only for those who want to conduct research using the local language or acquire research skills for their seminars, but also for those who are attempting field research abroad for the first time.

Although it is a short program of about one week *, it will definitely be a positive experience for your student life and for your future career!

*Duration varies depending on the program.