Mr. Kensuke Shirai
Japan
IRP 1st-year
Sponsored by NSK Ltd.

The IRP program at IUJ is designed to provide a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of major trends in contemporary international politics, economics and social trends. Since most of the lectures consist of debates and presentations, students are required to be independent.

By understanding different cultures, histories and lives through my life at IUJ, I strongly believe that I will be able to polish my international sensibility and grow as an internationally-minded person.

Ms. Pham Thi Tuyet Mai
Vietnam
IRP 2nd-year

I chose IUJ because of its international community of students made up of individuals who come from all over the world and bring with them incredibly diverse academic, professional and personal backgrounds. Being part of such a multicultural student body challenges us not only to develop our own perspective on international issues, but also to broaden this perspective through constant discussion and exchange of ideas. This makes IUJ a truly global learning experience both inside and outside the classroom.

In addition, the IUJ-IRP has allowed me to combine my diverse pre-IUJ university education and professional experiences in a rewarding manner. I am able to focus on matters that are closely linked to my career goals, deepen my academic background while benefiting from exposure to a broad array of issues and challenges and enhancing the analytical skills needed for a successful career in foreign policy.

Mr. Kan, M. Phongjaroewit
Thailand
IRP 2nd-year

The 9/11 incident is actually the source of my interest in the International Relations program; I am interested especially in warfare and the impact on the regional as well as the global economy. But why IUJ? Because Japan is the 2nd largest economy in the world and Japanese politics always play a major role in regional and global trends. IUJ, as one of the very first international universities in Japan, has definitely gained the collective experience and possesses the capability to deliver a global standard education. I believe that the incorporation of Japanese values and global attitudes makes IUJ a distinctive academy.

Personally, what I have found to be most impressive at IUJ is neither the place nor the professors, but the people. As for the International Relations program, students' contributions and interactions in the class, in my view, are much more important than anything else. The diversity of IUJ students, varying in culture, background, and experience, has immensely shaped my knowledge in this field. And of course, with guidance by the experienced IR professors, progress in learning as well as individual objectives can be ultimately maximized.

Ms. Rabi'ah Aminudin
Malaysia
IRP 1st-year

IUJ was my first choice back in Malaysia when I was offered a scholarship to further my study in Japan. Because of my research interests, I found IUJ to be the most interesting and convenient place to study in Japan, as I was not familiar with the Japanese language and IUJ uses English as its medium of instruction.

However, when I arrived, I found IUJ to be a much more interesting place than I expected, not because English is its main language, but due to its diversity of nationalities who are studying here. It is almost the globe on a smaller scale where you can find at least a couple of students from each continent in the world. This diversity, which cannot be found anywhere else, is good for me especially as an IR student. It is highly advantageous when you are able to discuss global issues from different points of views and from those whose countries or continents are involved in those issues.

Its small campus nature also ensures that each student gets personal attention from career guidance as well as their supervisors. This is another matter I find very impressive about IUJ. Personal contact with supervisors, officers and all members of the IUJ community is very normal which makes both personal and academic life much more smooth.

I am enjoying my period of study at IUJ. Life is challenging academically and interesting on a personal level. As an IR student, I am very much grateful to be in this diversified environment, which stimulates my thinking and provokes interesting issues relevant for advancement in my study and career in the future.

Mr. Gayrat Mazbutov
Tajikistan
IRP 1st-year

I chose IUJ's International Relations Program because of its truly international student body, which is very important for people who want an international education. The teaching approach in the IRP is truly international, because there are many professors who have different backgrounds and know several languages. I like the close relationship between professors and students in the IR Program, where you can see any professor at any time. I was amazed when found out that one IR professor, who is not Japanese speaks in Japanese language fluently and knows the history and culture of Japan very well. IUJ's IR Program is a great chance to experience truly international life and study.