TANAKA Itsuki | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Reason Why You Decided to Apply

I participated in the Field Study in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, because I wanted to learn what kind of actions are being taken by local communities facing various challenges. I thought that by using Iida City's efforts as a role model, I could gain hints for realizing a sustainable society. In addition, not only students from APU but also students from various universities, city office staff, and professors participated in this program. I participated in the project because I thought that communicating with people with diverse ideas and positions would lead to my own personal growth.

What do you hope to gain from participating in the program and how will you apply it to your future undergraduate studies or career?

The program included a farmer's stay, a visit to a community center, and an interview with a city hall official, which gave us a comprehensive understanding of Iida City. In particular, the spirit of resident autonomy that Iida City fosters and the bottom-up approach to relationship building in which citizens proactively make proposals to the government can be replicated in other regions. From now on, I would like to apply what I learned in the program to my graduation research and work and contribute to the creation of local communities.

Message for Students Interested in The Program

This program provides an opportunity to talk to a number of people who are contributing to Iida City's urban development. Therefore, this program is suitable for students who are able to proactively voice their questions and opinions. In addition, since a typical mountainous area is used as a role model, this will be the best opportunity for students to learn how to realize a sustainable society in Japan in a practical way. I hope this review will catch the attention of as many people as possible... (The photos below are Gohei-mochi rice cakes we made during the farmer's stay).