LI SZE CHIBG | Voices of International Students

Voices of International Students

Jun 15, 2026

LI SZE CHING

School of Human Sciences, College of Disability Sciences

From Hong Kong

LI SZE CHING — Visiting JAXA with friends

What sparked your interest in this university?

University of Tsukuba is well known as a leading national research university in Japan, which initially sparked my interest. In particular, my faculty offers a wide range of experienced professors who specialize in diverse areas of disability studies, including psychology, education, social work studies and practical support. This diversity allows students to learn from multiple perspectives and develop a comprehensive understanding of the field. I was especially drawn to the opportunity to engage with professors whose research aligns with my academic interests and to study in an environment that values interdisciplinary and evidence-based approaches.

What aspects of Japanese culture or customs surprised you? How did you adapt to these differences?

Having studied Japanese for more than ten years before coming to Japan, I was already familiar with many aspects of Japanese culture through language learning and everyday exposure to Japanese media. Therefore, there were few cultural differences that completely surprised me. However, one thing that impressed me after arriving in Japan was how university students make the most of their campus life. While maintaining their academic responsibilities, many students actively participate in circles and clubs, work part-time jobs, and take on internships or other extracurricular activities. I was particularly impressed by how well they manage their time and balance these different commitments. Inspired by my Japanese classmates, I became more conscious of planning my own schedule and making effective use of my time. This experience has helped me develop stronger time-management skills and enjoy a more fulfilling university life in Japan.

What do you enjoy about Tsukuba?

One of the things I enjoy most about Tsukuba is its comfortable living environment and international atmosphere. Tsukuba has a relatively mild weather and plenty of green spaces, which makes daily life very pleasant. Tsukuba is also very welcoming to people from different cultural backgrounds and provides numerous opportunities for international students to become involved in the local community.

One experience I particularly value is working with the city hall as an Instructor for International Understanding Classes. Through this program, I visit elementary and junior high schools to introduce my home country and culture to local students. These interactions allow me to share my background while learning more about Japanese society and education. I believe opportunities like this are one of Tsukuba's greatest strengths, as they encourage cultural exchange and help international students build meaningful connections with the local community.

What do you hope to achieve during your time here?

During my time at the University of Tsukuba, I hope to obtain the Japanese national qualification for social workers (社会福祉士). Through lectures and field placements at welfare-related facilities, I have gained valuable knowledge and practical experience while developing a deeper understanding of Japan's social welfare system.

These experiences have also helped me feel more connected to the local community. I am grateful for the opportunities to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and learn about social issues at the grassroots level. Moving forward, I hope to continue expanding my knowledge and practical skills so that I can make meaningful contributions to society and support those in need.

What do you think makes the University of Tsukuba special?

I believe one of the things that makes the University of Tsukuba special is its large and diverse campus environment. The university brings together students and researchers from a wide range of academic fields, creating many opportunities to meet people with different perspectives and interests.

Another unique feature is the flexibility of its curriculum. Students are able to take elective courses offered by different schools and programs, allowing them to explore subjects beyond their major. I appreciate this interdisciplinary approach because it encourages intellectual curiosity and helps students develop a broader understanding of society. The combination of academic flexibility and a vibrant campus community makes studying at the University of Tsukuba a truly rewarding experience.