Messages from Students

The Dynamism of studying in Shimane University

David Mugambi Nduru (Kenya)

Graduate School of Education

 

 Studying in Shimane university, by its very nature, provided me with a healthy dose of experiential learning. There are so many programs that are organized in the university that enriches ones knowledge. This ranges from the classrooms, outdoor activities such as trips and field study. This ensured that I was holistically in touch with all spheres acquisition of knowledge.
 Adapting the Japanese culture was facilitated by the cordial interactions among the teachers, students, staff and the entire society of Matsue. At first I could not interact well in Japanese
but the members of Shimadai helped me to learn the language. Shimane is endowed with a variety of food that is not common in Kenya, particularly the seafood. This became a good avenue to enjoy their food as I became part of them.
 The beautiful scenery of Shimane prefecture converted me to a local tourist. Shinji lake, Vogel park, Nima sand museum to mention just but a few. I was able to traverse in these sites over the weekends andholidays. The life in Shimane was very exciting.
 The generosity and hospitality accorded to me and the other foreignersat theinternational house is worthy of siting. The manager (Yoshimoto)was so friendly to us to an extent that she became our mum in thathouse. This minimized the chances of missing home.
 Live Long Shimane University!!!!!!

 

My study abroad and my life in Shimane

Agung Manggala Putra (Indonesia)

Faculty of Law and Literature

 

 I am participating in a scholarship program called “MEXT Japanese Language Program” and I decided to go to study abroad at Shimane University. When I decided Shimane University, a lot of people around me asked “Why Shimane University?”, “Where is Shimane? Never heard of it.”, etc. First, the reason why I chose Shimane University is because I wanted to go to a University in Japan which my college or my friends do not know or never heard about. Because my major is Japanese Language, I think I don’t have any problems in daily conversation.
 In campus life, the classes that I’m attending now are very structured and so various. So, I can improve my Japanese language ability and learn so many things about Japanese culture and its history, especially about Shimane Prefecture. When I want to discuss my report or tasks, the teachers are also very kind and cooperative to teach and to make me improve my Japanese language skill. Besides the classes, field trips are always held every month, and they are a very good chance to see and experience the Japanese traditional culture.
 By studying in Shimane University, I can also train myself for being independent. In terms of friends, there are so many friends from various countries here. We often discuss and study together, or if we have some spare time, we often go to eat together. There are so many restaurants around the campus and the dormitory. Supermarket and convenience stores are also quite close to the dormitory, and it is very convenient.
 For those who want to study abroad at Shimane University, you don’t need to worry. Shimane is a very comfortable place, the food is delicious, Shimane’s people are very kind, and there are so many things that can make you fall in love with Shimane.

 

Studying Experience in Japan

Mohammad Shahidur Rahman (Bangladesh)

The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences,Tottori University

 

 Education in broad sense is the most important value for me. I have always been interested in learning new things. Fortunately, studying in Japan has given me the chance not only to complete my Master’s degree and continue studying, but also learn about the country’s culture and traditions. What is more, studying at Shimane University among both the Japanese and international students has spread my horizons in terms of intercultural understanding.
 As a foreigner studying and living in Japan, I would like to share my Japanese experience so as to encourage people not to disregard the opportunity of studies or employment abroad; each time we experience new culture, we enrich ours.
 To start with I should acknowledge that there are many reasons to fall in love with Japan. The main one for me is the beauty of the nature. Shimane prefecture, where I am currently staying, is rich in picturesque sceneries: the sunset at Shinji Lake, the sacred charm of Izumo Shrine, and the inspiring Sea of Japan still take my breath away. Another valuable asset of daily life in Matsue, Shimane, that I have discovered, is safety. In my experience, the Japanese people follow the laws and general safety rules, highly respecting each other. Above all, the people in Japan are the perfect example of politeness, kindness, and the readiness to help. Numerous times, a Japanese person would not only show, but take me to the place of my destination in case I ask the way, even if the destination is completely out of the way of that person.
 Even though the life in Japan has brought me many benefits, there have still been a lot of challenges to overcome. The main one, undoubtedly, is the Japanese language. The life in Shimane is
impossible to imagine without at least the basic command of the Japanese language. Thus, it is essential to enroll on the Japanese language classes and communicate in the Japanese as much
as possible. Fortunately, the University of Shimane provides the international students with a variety of the language courses at different levels.
 All in all, the studies in Japan have influenced my personality a lot. I have developed professional skills in my sphere of studies, experienced the beauty of the Japanese customs and traditions,
made friends with many kind people, and enriched my world by the stunning beauty of the local nature.

 

Message from International Students

Kassidy KaleneJoyner (USA)

Faculty of Law and Literature

 

 I think Shimane University is a great place to study Japanese. The teachers and staff are all incredibly supportive, and are always willing to help with anything. The International Student Section frequently holds events and field trips especially for foreign students, and provides many great opportunities to experience Japanese culture and the unique attractions of the surrounding area. The international students here are a pretty close-knit community, so it is very easy to make friends and have a good time.
 In terms of location, Matsue is a good mix of city and countryside elements. It does tend to feel more rural, which is great if you want to experience the atmosphere of small-town Japan. Shimane is a relatively quiet area, so it is very easy to relax or concentrate on your studies. It may be somewhat difficult at first if you cannot speak Japanese, but I think you will be able to find many people who are willing to help you out.

 

 

Welcome to Shimane University!…or so I would love to say to you!


Natalia Parzyszek (Poland)
Faculty of Education

 

 In this short message, I could list countless reasons for which you should come here to study. But! While considering your choice you probably have read a bunch of stuff like great perspective, access to modern technology, etc., and by now you became tired of hearing it. So maybe just like I did, you are thinking: “Fine, I get that it’s a prestigious institution and I’ll get to brag about it, but than wouldn’t universities in Kyoto or Tokyo be as good or even better? What is there for me if I choose Shimane University?”
 Believe me, there is a lot. 

 In Shimane University you are neither going to experience loneliness nor get fed up with your research. Besides your classes, you can take part in various activities (Cooking Buckwheat Noodles Event, Bowling Tournament, Kakizome Challenge, Kansai Field Trip etc.) offered to us by either teachers, students or International Student Section, where you not only interact with people, but also learn about amazing Japanese culture.
 Let’s be honest, when we come to Japan we crave to experience as much unique things as we can. And in Matsue we get so many chances to do that! We are cared for by everyone so much that it makes me wonder: will I be able to go back to my own university happily? Who knows, maybe soon after, I will be back here? If so, let’s meet in Matsue and while taking a stroll down the beautiful Shinji Lake, let me know if you are glad to have come here.
 Till then, my friend!

 

My great experience at Shimadai


Martinez Martinez Wilmar Hernan (Colombia)
Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Engineering

 

 I was attracted to come to Japan for the kindness of its people, when I was a Master Student in Colombia I was looking for help to finish my research and a professor from Shimane University helped me a lot. Then, I came to Japan in order to pursue my Ph.D. degree under the supervision of this kind professor. And it has been one of the best experiences in my life. From the beginning
I realized Japanese People is characterized for being kind and supportive, because my labmates, the staff from Shimadai (nickname of Shimane University), and the international students help each other. In this university I could learn from many cultures, meet new friends, attend to several social and cultural activities (Trips, Homestays, Welcome Parties, Festivals, Gastronomic
events, etc) organized by Shimadai and Matsue city.
 I like this place, Shimane is a prefecture with an ancient history and you can feel the mysticism in many places. I find Matsue particularly beautiful, during each season, I saw the beauty of this place in every color at every corner. Specially, I have to say that one of the best landscapes that I ever seen is the sunset in Matsue. In conclusion, I have a great admiration for this country and for the discipline of its people. Specially, my best appreciation for Shimane University for receiving me.
 Thank you very much Shimadai."

 

Shimane University; A small miracle in islands of Gods

DadayakkarageNuwanSanjayaWanniarachchi (Sri Lanka)
Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Engineering

 

 As a Sri Lankan, I had a dream to visit Japan, as I watched a Japanese drama series dubbed into Sinhalese. The traditional Japan and the beauty of nature, especially the winter with snow and blooming of Sakura enchanted me. This childhood dream forced me to choose a University in Japan for my postgraduate studies. Shimane University is quite popular among the geology students in my former University (University of Peradeniya). According to the descriptions and recommendations of my friends who were studying at Shimane University, I applied the Monbukagakushou Scholarship for Special Program in Geoscience Department. I started my master studies and continued to doctoral program in Professor Masahide Akasaka’s laboratory. A peaceful and relax academic environment is a key point to overcome the linguistic, cultural, and social barriers as a foreign graduate student. Reach the supervisor at any time, prompt comments on academic presentations and documents, and friendly instructions on laboratory methods and instrumentations represent the good relationship between student and supervisor. These aspects are well performed in the professor Akasaka Laboratory. Even though the linguistic barrier is much difficult to cross, English is more than enough to communicate with supervisor, and English advisors are
always available in the University. This situation leads me to extend my research spheres. The life in Shimane University improved not only my knowledge, but also the spiritual, philosophical, and well academic behavior. Shimane University is a miracle that changed my life for a better future.

 

My life in Shimane University: The best choice

Yan Hongjie (China)
Graduate School of Medical Research

 

 During my undergraduate time, a lecture given by a distinguished alumnus on his studying in Japan made a deep impression on me. Two years later, I passed the competitive selection of being an exchange student of Shimane University Faculty of Medicine. A new start came to me full of challenges. But with the patient and kind help of the teachers and doctors, the first part of my overseas stay was filled with happiness and gains. I took part in research on Alzheimer’s disease meanwhile learning clinical medical knowledge with undergraduate students, and did clinical observation of intractable cases with all the neurologists. The neurology department with a history of more than 30 years deserved its fine reputation. So I chose to further study here for another four years. The Faculty of Medicine located in a quiet beautiful city called Izumo, but it can still lead you to the world. With the best wishes from the most famous shrine named Izumo Taisha, you have to believe that the harder you work, the luckier you will be. With concentrated guidance from my professor, I got many good experiences at domestic and international conferences, which increased my confidence and broadened my horizon. What matters most was that I could communicate with famous scientists and introduce our research to the world. In summary, studying here is a great opportunity, why don’t you join us?