Maria, Mexico

2020/04/17 Fri #Mexico

Why did you choose Japan to pursue your studies?

Maria (Mexico) New Port High School Mexico

I have always liked Japan since I was 14 years old. I knew I wanted to go someday, so I studied the language by myself for 2 years approximately. During my first time in Japan (Jan 2018) I studied at a Japanese Language school and lived with a host family. During those 6 months, I fell in love with the culture, the society, nature, and I felt I was transformed into a better version of myself. Also, since Japan is a world-leading economy and education is high-quality, I consider it a good place to study business. That is why I decided to come back for my University studies.

Why did you choose NUCB? What was the deciding factor when comparing to other schools?

NUCB was the recommendation of one of my teachers at the Japanese Language school. I struggled finding other schools in Aichi Prefecture that had a BBA course taught in English.

What is one of your favorite classes and why?

I really enjoyed the “Doing Business in Japan” course, because we learned and discussed Japan’s working environment and the hiring process, which I consider very useful information.

What in particular attracted you to the Global BBA Program?

For me the curriculum was attractive and found the “case method” interesting too. I was looking for something different and new. Also I like to have time after school for doing part-time jobs and doing my chores, and the schedule of the BBA program allows me to do that.

Tell us about your weekly schedule.

Last semester I had morning classes (09:20-13:00) on Mon-Wed-Thu, and after class, I worked at Family Mart around 4-7 hrs/per day. After work, I have dinner and prepare for the next day’s class. My only afternoon class (13:40-17:20 was on Tuesday, so I did homework and some exercise in the mornings.

How do you prepare for case studies? Was it intimidating at first?

I read the case while I highlight keywords or important facts. I also research some words and concepts I don’t know along with the reading. After reading I look for extra information if the case is not very detailed. I also read the assignment questions to prepare some notes in order to participate during the class with useful information. Of course, it is intimidating at first, since it is very different from traditional education, but everyone gets used to it after some practice.

Have you received any scholarships?

Yes, I received the JASSO Honors scholarship due to my TOEFL score and High School Transcripts. It is 48,000 JPY per month, for 12 months for those that start in April.

What do you do in your spare time?

I like to do digital illustration, so I can spend hours at home just drawing. I also like to cook, practice yoga, watercolor painting, reading, and studying Japanese.

Tell us about your language ability before arriving and how that has developed on and off-campus.

I was fluent in Japanese before starting school, which allowed me to get a job easily. The language course I took last semester helped me as a rehearsal tool for my preparation for the JLPT I took on December. Now I am certified in N2 level.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to the program?

My advice is to be open-minded, ready for many new things and rules that may not apply in your home country. Also, to consider that self-study is very important outside the class. Finally, try to spend as much time as possible surrounded by people in order to make friends, and do not spend your time lonely at the dorm!

What do you want to do in the future?

After graduation I plan to stay in Japan, but probably move to another city (maybe Osaka). I want to work at a company where I can explore my language skills and apply my knowledge from school.

Maria, Mexico

New Article

Search in Archive