NEWS

On Friday, June 27, 2025, the Center for Language Education (CLE) held a session of the GOAL (Global Alumni Lecture) program.

The GOAL (Global Alumni Lecture) course offered by the CLE invites APU graduates who studied languages at APU and have since pursued diverse careers around the world to return to campus and share the knowledge and experiences they have gained through their work.
For current students, it is an opportunity to envision their own future career goals and reflect on how to connect their learning at APU with their careers after graduation.

This session featured Mr. Shintaro Ashi (College of Asia Pacific Studies, Class of 2017, Sri Lanka), and many international students currently enrolled in Japanese language classes attended the lecture.

After graduating from APU, Mr. Ashi began working at an automobile manufacturer in Japan and now works for A global apparel manufacturer and retailer. Although he now speaks fluent Japanese and gave the lecture entirely in the language, he shared that he could not speak any Japanese when he first entered APU and began his studies in an elementary-level class. Drawing from his own experience, he offered valuable advice to students considering working in Japan, including tips on job-hunting and communicating in a Japanese work environment. For instance, he encouraged students not to hesitate to ask the meaning of unfamiliar words during interviews, as doing so may help interviewers realize they’ve used overly technical terms, thereby fostering better communication.

He also emphasized that, regardless of language, building good interpersonal relationships is key to success in Japanese society—both as a student and as a professional. Teamwork and the ability to connect with others are closely observed during job applications and after employment, so he advised students to start developing these skills early on. Speaking about the difference between student life and professional life, he remarked: “As a student, you’re protected, and mistakes are often forgiven. But in the working world, things can be tough and sometimes unfair. That’s why I encourage you to take on as many challenges as you can while you’re still a student.” His warm and specific advice prompted many questions from the audience.

The CLE will continue to offer programs like GOAL that help students cultivate practical language skills they can use in real-world settings.