I’m Erandi, a second year doctoral student majoring Mathematics as well as a mother of a 4 year old boy. I joined Kyushu University from my master’s studies as a research student first and keep continuing.

What attracted you to Kyushu University?

I chose Kyushu University for its excellent reputation. When I first contacted the university, I got a good feeling from the faculty and the supporting staff. Everyone was really friendly and seemed like they were passionate about supporting newcomers. Also I was impressed by what I heard from friends about the life at Kyushu University. On the other hand, having a large and diverse student body in the university ensured me the capability of facing hardships especially with a family in a new society which uses the global language a minimum. Plus the university is beautiful, and the Japanese people are always friendly and humble. Overall it was the perfect fit for me

What’s the most interesting part about your program?

Being a research-based program is what I like most. It keeps the main focus on the student’s research work while letting us study through lectures and seminars by offering a range of courses. The students are always motivated to conduct productive research work rather than completing credits for the degree by the academic staff. The experience of the supervisors and the way they guide us throughout the research work is very impressive. Especially I like the freedom that has let me to choose my research path while guiding me to study plenty of basics and related areas which provides a good foundation and a smooth flow of studies.

How’s student life at Kyushu University?

Life at Kyushu University gave me not only a life experience of living in a different culture but also an opportunity to make a bunch of new friends around the world. In fact, beginning of a new life in a new place especially with a family was not easy for me as for all but there was a big staff in the Student Support section to help with various procedures before and after coming to Japan. Also, the student supporters are there to help with basic things in starting the new life here. Being the only foreigner sometimes in the class made me excited at first but I was surprised by how down-to-earth and humble my classmates were, they are with me whenever I want to talk or share ideas with them and working as a group in seminars helps me not only to study but also to learn from their experience too. On the other hand, the financial support received by the Japanese government is the biggest support for removing my hardships and it helps to devote my time focusing only on my studies. Especially life is not difficult without Japanese as I thought but knowing a little Japanese would be a plus advantage.

What do you like about Fukuoka?

What I like most about Fukuoka is that it is rich in beaches and a variety of nature and also has easy access to surrounding prefectures so it gives me a chance to stay with nature when I need a little rest from my studies. And also I like its mild climate. It is a clean and beautiful city that has a good public transport system and Fukuoka’s cost of living is considerably lower than the other main cities. Moreover, in my experience, I met nice and friendly people in Fukuoka.

Any advice to prospective international students?

Kyushu University has already provided all facilities that you need and a fair atmosphere for all students and also there is a supporting staff to help in each and every single problem that you may face. No doubt your hard work and capacity will define your success at Kyushu University. Be sure to make friends around you as it is likely you will feel lonely or stressed at some point during your studies. Be sure to join clubs or societies and to engage in social events conducted by the university as it will give you the opportunity to meet new people, likely from different backgrounds. Meanwhile, try to develop your Japanese as possible as you can if you wish to stay the rest of your life in Japan. At last it’s not worthless if your choice is to travel around to feel the Japan’s beauty, taste Japanese food and to learn the Japanese culture when you have time.