The more I learn about Japan, the more I realise how much I still don’t know

Tell us what you like most about your course?

I have always been fascinated with Japan. What I love about my course is the more I learn about Japan, the more I realise how much I still don’t know. It makes me want to keep learning forever.

The course at Sheffield has been really enjoyable because all the staff are equally passionate about their subject, and have really well designed classes that challenge us to think deeper. I have enjoyed the challenges and the variety of subjects on offer.

What made you decide to come to the University of Sheffield to do this course?

Firstly, I wanted to get to know a new city and I definitely think Sheffield is the most beautiful and safe city I have ever lived in. Secondly, the University specialises in completely different disciplines than the University I went to for my undergrad.

Whereas before I had studied a lot of history and society, now I have studied politics, international relations, media, economics, and other general contemporary issues, so I feel like I now have a much broader set of skills and knowledge.

How does the course, your department or the University help you to decide what you want to do next?

I have used the university careers service many times, and they were really helpful and patient with me. I needed a lot of time because I am still unsure about what to my future career might be.

Can you tell us what it’s like working with the staff on research projects or your dissertation?

I feel it is a great privilege to work with world-renowned scholars who are all experts in their field. My supervisor brings a huge amount of expertise and passion to his work and I grateful to be able to work with him.

How can your learning be applied to the real world? For example, could you use the skills gained on your course in the business world, or could you use your knowledge to help the community?

I certainly feel, having studied economics, politics, and IR, much better equipped to understand the news, and the world around me.

For example, now I feel able to have an informed opinion on whether the Bank of England will change the interest rates. I wish they taught stuff like this at school!

What do you think about University facilities, such as the Information Commons?

The Information Commons' silent study zone and 24-hour café are very useful, especially for an all-nighter! It’s very helpful that there are so many sockets to plug in your laptop all over campus.

I also am a big fan of the students’ union for its practical study spaces and ample choice of good tasting food.

What do you like most about living in Sheffield?

The thing that surprised me the most in Sheffield was the abundance of Sushi restaurants. There are many interesting, good quality places to eat and drink. I have really got into sampling the food culture here.

I recommend Tamper Coffee for the cold brew and pressed coffees, Street Food Chef for Mexican food, and Let’s Sushi for good quality Japanese cuisine that won’t break the bank. I love that I feel safe in Sheffield, and the views of the hills from many parts of the city are breath-taking and will never fail to cheer you up, even if it’s raining!

The proximity to the Peak District gives some parts of the city a rural feel – it’s hard to get a village feel in a city but that’s exactly how I would describes some parts of Sheffield.