On June 18, 2018, a study abroad information session took place in the Faculty of Fine Arts Lecture Room 6 on Ueno Campus of Tokyo University of the Arts, or Tokyo Geidai. It is an annual event organized by the international affairs office for students who are considering studying abroad while at Tokyo Geidai. For those who haven’t started their research yet, the basics of studying abroad were covered briefly, followed by presentations and question-and-answer advising by students and faculty members who actually went overseas for their studies. The lecture room, which holds about 70 people, was so packed that some students had to stand at the back during the session. It is an indication that there are many students who are interested in overseas education.

First, a staff member of the international affairs office spoke about the basics, such as points of contact for consultation and tips for gathering information. She also touched on key issues such as language requirements and financial aids, and important things to consider, such as risk management and insurance coverage while in a foreign country.

Subsequently, presentations were made by three students who gained international experience under the Tobitate! (Leap for Tomorrow) Study Abroad Initiative led by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The presenters – an undergraduate student from the Faculty of Fine Arts, a master’s student from the Graduate School of Music, and a Ph.D. student from the Graduate School of Fine Arts – who vary in course levels, majors, and study abroad destinations, shared their experiences and advice for the participating students. The audience was paying close attention as the three students talked about their preparation process – from what motivated them to study abroad to how they collected information and how they won their scholarship – and their firsthand experiences as international students, as well as how their international education had impacts on their lives and career goals.

After the presentations, the question-and-answer advising took place. The three presenters were joined by Project Professor Itani from the Global Support Center, staff members of the international affairs office, and two other alumni of the Tobitate initiative – a master’s student from the Graduate School of Film and New Media and a former master’s student from the Graduate School of Music. They all helped participating students get a clearer picture of what it is like to study abroad by answering questions about language preparations and scholarship interviews. The advising time thus offered a good opportunity for students interested in studying abroad to speak to someone knowledgeable about it and sort out their ideas.

Through various occasions like this one, the international affairs office will continue to provide support for students considering studying abroad in close collaboration with the Global Support Center.