English Top » Study in Japan » Follow-up Services for International Students who studied in Japan » Japan Alumni eNews » Japan Alumni eNews (Vol. 31)
1. Life in Japan by Photo -- Life in Japan shown through photos. We look forward to your submissions!
2. Alumni News -- News on International Students / Introduction of International Students / Introduction of “Japan Alumni Associations” / Introduction of “Programs for former international students”
3. Academic News -- Introducing Faculties/Graduate Schools / Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation Information / Academic Symposiums / Japanese Language Test
4. Business News -- Job Hunting-Related Event Information / Job Hunting Reports from Former International Students / Job Hunting Consultations / Convenient Job Hunting Information
5. Visit Japan -- Why not try traveling throughout Japan? Famous places, events, and cuisine information from around Japan!
6. NIPPON Time Machine -- This section features enjoyable stories about pop culture, traditions, dining, cutting-edge technology, and more!
7. JASSO News -- 2011 Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students / Japan Education Fairs / Japan Education Seminars / Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) / JASSO Scholarship programs / Information about Study Abroad in Japan Events Held by or Participated in by JASSO Overseas Representative Offices / Reports on International Students' Local Exchange Activities Supported by the Nakajima Foundation
8. From the Reader -- Impressions from our readers!
Life in Japan shown through photos. We look forward to your submissions!
Here are the photos of “Memories in Japan” and “Autumn in Japan” which we received from our readers this month.
(Dispense with the Mr. and Mrs.)

■ Li Yujie (China)
Blue, green, and white...colors contrast with each other, but they fit very much in the scene. Overall, very blight scenery, especially the reflection of the castle on a fosse is very beautiful.

■ Cao Zhanquan (China)
Tokyo International University
While I was a renter, I developed a good relationship with Mrs. Sato, the renter of my room, by exchanging summer and New Year greeting cards. Sometime she invited me to her house for dinner. She also took me to the tea ceremony. This photo, which was taken when we had wine together reminds me of many memories with Mrs. Sato. We are still good friends and keep in touch frequently.

■ Wang Hong Juan (China)
Graduate School of Kobe Shoin Women’s University
I came to Japan last April, the best season when we could see beautiful cherry blossoms. One look truly is better than a hundred words. I was so fascinated by beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom. Each blossom is very tiny but gathering many blossoms together, they look so beautiful. We also should gather together no matter which country we are from, make good friendships then make a beautiful world.

■ Michael Ronoubigouwa Ambouroue Avaro (Gabon)
This picture was taken in November 2010, during the University Open Campus.

■ Kim Jungmi (Korea)
When I visited Kyoto, I heard that I could experience "maiko" make-up with kimono, but I didn't have time to do so. Then I happened to see "maiko" girls walking in front of me, so I asked them to take a picture with me. They kindly accepted my request. Until then, I just saw "maiko" in some photos or on the web, so I was very glad to see real "maiko" girls.
We received 3 photos from Mozhdeh Bagheri.
■ Mozhdeh Bagheri (Iranian)
Tohoku University School of Medicine

Sky is blue, no matter where you are, no matter who you are! Enjoy it... (Hirosemachi Street, Sendai, nice and sunny but cold day in autumn 2010.)

Although spring is blooming time full of new lives and energy, it gets old and time comes to say goodbye. Leaves are going with the wind to their land tombs... They are the sleeping beauty. It is colorful autumn in Tohoku University, 2010

Different sight of autumn; colorful stars in blue sky (Tohoku University School of medicine, fall 2010)
So, how did you enjoy our article? In our December issue, Life in Japan by Photo will introduce “Places of memories.” Please send us your photo along with a simple episode about the photo. We're looking forward to your photos!
1. Photos: One photo of “ Places of memories”
2. Photo title: 10 words or less
3. Comment (the reason you like the spot, your memories)
4. Name (katakana and alphabet)
5. Nationality
6. Address to send photos (editorial team): alumni-newsletter@jasso.go.jp
Introduce news related to international students and student experiences!
1) News on International Students
News 1: Workshop for People Supporting International Students at Educational Institutions
The Workshop for People Supporting International Students at Educational Institutions hosted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry was held on October 20 in Tokyo. The goal of this workshop was to share accumulated expertise related to projects provided to international students as part of projects by the Career Development Program for Foreign Students in Japan (job hunting support, business Japanese-language education, and Japanese business education) with project staff, and also to offer this expertise to corporations and educational institutions interested in these projects. Sub-committees were held on each field after reports of results and policy explanations from the Career Development Program for Foreign Students in Japan. Workshops are also scheduled to be held in the Tohoku, Chubu, and Kyushu regions in the future.
News 2: The Urasenke School invited international students to a tea ceremony
The 31st International Tea Ceremony (hosted by the Urasenke Tea Ceremony School and others) was held at the Urasenke Sadoukaikan in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City. This event was attended by people including international students and foreign researchers residing in the Kansai region. Explanations were given in English of the tea ceremony history, types of implements and manners, and international students learning at the Urasenke School served tea. The approximately 370 attendees experienced Japanese culture by tasting usucha (“thin” matcha tea) and Japanese-style sweets evoking an image of autumn mountains.
News 3: The Juroku Bank held an exchange seminar with international students and small- and medium-sized corporations
The Juroku Bank (Gifu Prefecture) recently held a seminar for exchange between small- and medium-sized corporations in Nagoya City that are expanding overseas and international students who hope to find employment at Japanese corporations. In the future as well, the bank will provide opportunities to match international students and corporations through business cooperation with Keisei (Aichi Prefecture), which conducts training and job hunting support for international students. Approximately 7,000 international students are studying in Gifu and Aichi Prefectures, and around 60% of these international students hope to find employment at Japanese corporations.
News 4: The 2nd Ringing in the Japanese New Year with Friends of the World
The National Institution for Youth Education will hold the 2nd Ringing in the Japanese New Year with Friends of the World event at the National Olympics Memorial Youth Center from 1:00 p.m. on December 30, 2011 to 12:00 p.m. on January 2, 2012 (four days and three nights) to foster greater exchanges between international and Japanese students as well as an understanding of Japanese culture while allowing them to experience Japanese New Year's events and culture. Admission is 5,000 yen, which includes accommodation fee three breakfasts, one lunch, and three dinners. Details will be published on the National Institution for Youth Education website (http://www.niye.go.jp/), so check there and then become an active participant.
(For inquiries, call the International Affairs and Training Support Division at 03-6407-7756.)
News 5: Notice the Japan-Russia University Fair
Tohoku University established the Japanese Inter-University Russia Office in Moscow State University as a part of the project for the Japanese government’s “Global 30 Program.” We are dedicated to international exchange, promoting international research and nurturing students who will be active on a global scale.
The Japan-Russia University Fair will be held in ANO “The Japan Center” at Moscow State University from 10:00 am to 3:30pm on December 8th, 2011 (no entrance fee). We welcome students and researchers who are interested in studying, and implementing research projects in Japan.
Anyone with questions about participating in the Fair, should contact us: Tohoku University, International Exchange Division, Sasagu Yamaguchi (Mr.) / Kanako Tanno (Ms.), Phone: +81-(0)22-217-6019/6020, E-mail: kokusai-s@bureau.tohoku.ac.jp
There was an error in our previous announcement.
News 6: Notice the 1st “Social Science and Humanities Forum between Japan and Russia: For the Possibility of Academic Exchange between Japan and Russia in the Age of Globalization”
Tohoku University and Moscow State University are holding the 1st “Social Science and Humanities Forum between Japan and Russia: For the Possibility of Academic Exchange between Japan and Russia in the Age of Globalization” from December 8th to 9th at the Fundamental Library in Moscow State University (December 8th: 9:30am to 6:15pm, December 9th: 10:00am to 1:30pm)
Japan-Russia interpreter available, No entrance fee, no prior registration needed.
To promote academic exchange, Japanese and Russian researchers will present papers on the results of their studies in Economics, Higher Education, Traffic Issues, Literature, Philosophy, Foreign Language, Psychology, Art (Music), and so on. We hope to welcome many participants.
For more information, contact: Tohoku University, Northeast Asian Studies, Masachika Shiotani (Mr.), Phone: +81-(0)22-795-6082, E-mail: shiotani@cneas.tohoku.ac.jp
.
2) Introduction of International Students

Ms. Chonwattana Chawanrat (Thai)
October 2004 ~ September 2005 (Ochanomizu University, Japanese Language-Japanese Literature and Culture Students)
I enjoyed the fruitful one-year as a Japanese Language-Japanese Literature and Culture Student in Ochanomizu University. There were a lot of interesting classes in Ochanomizu University, because it is a prestigious school about education. For example, we can improve our Japanese language abilities from “Japanese language grammar” and “Japanese language presentation practice” classes. We can also learn about Japanese culture and literature from “Haiku” class. Especially, “Haiku” was one of my most favorite classes. I could study not only “Haiku” itself but also I could learn about the writer, about the society and culture of Japan when the Haiku was written. I could appreciate resonate and meaning of Haiku by reading a lot of pieces and writing Haiku poets by myself. Through the class of “Haiku”, I could feel that I understand the heart of Japanese people and the Japanese literatures.
In Ochanomizu University, all teachers were so kind. We sometimes had opportunities to have meals with them, so we could get close with the teachers. When I wrote reports, they always gave me a lot of advices so I could study many things. Also, there were various kinds of events in campus life, such as university festival, class trip, international students’ party, exchange program with Korean university students, etc. I really enjoyed the university life with my friends. And club activities were there, too. Many of clubs in Ochanomizu University have activities with other universities such as Tokyo University. Joining a club is really a good chance to get to know Japanese university students. I could have many Japanese friends through club activities. I could enjoy Japanese university students’ life by participating in club activities like training camps, hiking, fire-works watching and holiday camps, and so on.
While I studied in Ochanomizu University, I could meet many people such as elder students from Thailand, international students from other countries, resident assistants, housekeeping ladies, security guards. They were so kind all the time that they treated me like family. They gave me many good memories. I would say the one-year which I stayed in Japan was the most meaningful time of my life. I could know more about Japanese society and Japanese people from my daily matters and campus life. I could expand my view by having many friends from all over the world. It was really precious experience to me. I never forget my Japanese life as one of my most important pages in my life.
3) JASSO Public Facilities to Access Information on Study in Japan
The Public Information and Culture Division of Consulate-General of Japan at Busan
For the people in Yeungnam area (Busan-Gwangyeoksi, Daegu-Gwangyeoksi, Ulsan-Gwangyeoksi and Gyeongsangnam-do/Gyeongsangbuk-do, the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan holds a various kind of events to introduce Japan and conducts activities related with Japanese language so that people can get more understanding about Japan.
As for the events and the latest information about the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan, please refer to the homepage;
Japanese: http://www.busan.kr.emb-japan.go.jp/jhtm/index_j.htm
Korean: http://www.busan.kr.emb-japan.go.jp/nhtm/index.htm
Consultations for Studying in Japan
The staff of the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan accepts questions and consultation (by phone, in face-to-face, by mail, etc.) about studying in Japan anytime.
Besides that, we ask the “Adviser of Studying in Japan” who was the government-sponsored student in order to provide the consultation about studying in Japan for the students who live in the area far from Seoul, mainly in Daegu-Gwangyeoksi and Gyeongsangbuk-do.
Current Adviser: Lee Yong-Duk, Professor in Japanese Studies of Keimyung University
Available on: Every Monday and Wednesday
Studying in Japan Fair in Rural Area

Once in a year, we conduct the Studying in Japan Fair and the Individual Explanation Session in the area where is relatively far from Seoul for the students who live in such area. (in this year, scheduled on November in Gyeongsangbuk-do).
At the venue, the representatives from the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan, the Center of Korea-Japan Exchange, Busan and JASSO Republic of Korea Office provide the consultation for each student. Any questions and concerns about studying in Japan are answered very carefully on one-on-one base, so the students can easily ask even tiny matters without hesitations. So we get very positive feedbacks.
Library
In the library, students can read Japanese books, magazines, newspapers; can see DVDs and videos of introduction of Japan, TV dramas and movies. You can check them out with some restrictions. You can also read the entrance guides and brochures of Japanese main universities to consider studying in Japan. The library is located at the same place as the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan. ID is required to enter and check out.

Activities Related with Japanese Language
To provide the place where the students who study Japanese language can show their accomplishments and abilities, every year we host Japanese language writing contest, Japanese speech contest by high school and university students, Japanese song contest and Japanese play festival with cooperation of Korea-Japan exchange associations. The students who make very good results will be provided with opportunities to visit Japan such as Study tour to Japan by having supports from the Japan-Korea Cultural Foundation and local government.
Japanese Language Class

Twice in a year (March-June and September-December), we have Japanese language class at the Consulate-General of Japan. A specialist of Japanese language who is dispatched by the Japan Foundation teaches Japanese language mainly to the Japanese teachers in high schools.
The Consulate-General of Japan at Busan accepts feedbacks, requests and new ideas for our activities anytime.
We really appreciate your understanding and cooperation on our activities.
The Public Information and Culture Division of Consulate-General of Japan at Busan
Web
Japanese: http://www.busan.kr.emb-japan.go.jp/jhtm/index_j.htm
Korean: http://www.busan.kr.emb-japan.go.jp/nhtm/index.htm
4) Introduction of “Programs for former international students”
Kato International Association Network for Former International Students

The Kato International Association implements various international exchange projects with international students at the Hyogo University of Teacher Education located in the city. The Friendship Family Project, which the Association has been conducting since 1992, is a project that brings together local households and international students as exchange partners. The project celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, and up until now 492 households have accepted a total of 654 international students. The familial bonds between international students and residents that are built through such grassroots exchange are an indispensible element for promoting lively international exchange projects in Kato City.
The Association also established the Network for Former International Students in 2007, in which international students who are completing their period of study abroad register their information for after they return to their home country. The purpose of this project is to continue exchange even after the students have returned to their own country. Currently, approximately 60 people from 10 countries have registered. This time we will introduce the World Children’s Picture Exhibition and International Student Hometown Visit Project that were carried out using this Network.
The World Children’s Picture Exhibition was held in 2008. The theme was “Encountering other cultures through children’s drawings from all over the world.” Former international students and current international students at the Hyogo University of Teacher Education gathered pictures drawn by children in different countries via the Network for Former International Students. Sixty pictures drawn by elementary and middle school students were given from the United States, China, Korea, Uzbekistan, Oman, the Philippines, and other countries, and displayed at the Kato City International Tutoring School (the International Tutoring School also displays over 500 precious folk craft articles given by international students who were residing in Kato City).
This exhibition, which is extremely popular with visitors, allows you to feel different cultures through the messages, ways of using color, expressions of people, and other elements that differ by country. For example, pictures drawn by Korean children were inspired by old Korean folklore, pictures by Chinese children contained prayers for world peace, and pictures by children from Oman were on the subject of environmental issues.
In addition, the International Student Hometown Visit Project was also begun in 2008 to develop the everyday, energetic exchange between international students and residents in new fields such as culture and tourism. In this project, current and former international students draft plans, serve as leaders, and perform interpretation when they visit their home countries. During the first visit, a group mainly composed of members of the Association visited Inner Mongolia in China. There, they deepened their understanding of other cultures in a new format by experiencing life in the nomadic dwellings of the Mongols and viewing traditional sports, with careful guidance given in Japanese by former international students. An international student that accompanied the group as a guide said, “I was able to introduce the customs and culture of my own country to the people who are of such assistance to me. I’m very thankful for this, and I’m extremely happy that we were able to become true friends.”
The second visit was scheduled to be to Korea in 2009, but was cancelled due to the spread of new strains of influenza. Plans are currently underway for re-starting the project next year.
In the future, the Association plans to enhance the Network for Former International Students in order to develop the precious bonds with international students expanding to areas throughout the world into meaningful projects in various fields such as culture, education, and commerce.
1) Introducing Faculties/Graduate Schools

Kyoto University K.U.PROFILE Project
[Profile] (Current as of May, 2011)
◆Name: Please refer to the List of courses
◆Location: Yoshidahoncho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi
◆Webpage: http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en
◆Graduate Schools: 17, Faculties: 10, Research Institutes: 14, Centers: 20
◆Number of Students: Undergraduate: 13,537, Graduate: 9,282 (International students: 1,658)
Kyoto University overview
Founded in June 1897, Kyoto University has a long history and enduring traditions. The main campus is located in the historic city of Kyoto, a center of traditional Japanese culture.
Since its founding, the University has been dedicated to furthering higher education and fostering an atmosphere of free academic exchange. Graduates of the University play important roles in both national and international affairs, as key players in politics, industry, and society.
At present, Kyoto University is comprised of 10 faculties, 17 graduate schools, 14 research institutes, 20 educational institutes and other establishments. Approximately 1,600 of the university’s 23,000 students hail from overseas. With students from over 100 different countries and regions, the university’s campuses boast a rich cultural diversity.
Global 30: Kyoto University Activities

In 2009, Kyoto University was one of thirteen universities selected by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for the Project for Establishing Core Universities for Internationalization: Global 30 (G 30). Under the G30 Project, Kyoto University has established a range of English-taught degree courses collectively titled K.U.PROFILE (Kyoto University Programs for Future International Leaders).
List of courses
・Undergraduate International Course Program of Global Engineering
・International Course in Management of Civil Infrastructure in the Department of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering
・International Course in Urban and Regional Development in the Department of Urban Management
・Special Course in Agricultural Science - For the Global Future of Life, Food and the Environment
・International Energy Science Course
・International Course in Intelligent Informatics
・International Course in Social Informatics
・International Course in Communications and Computer Engineering
・Global Frontier in Life Science
・International Environmental Management Program
・International Course for Primatology and Wildlife Research
・International Project Management Course
Undergraduate International Course Program of Global Engineering
This 4-year undergraduate program in global engineering, formulated by the Undergraduate School of Engineering, was one of the pioneering programs offered entirely in English. We aim to equip students with the skills to be capable of designing and managing civil infrastructures while considering global environmental issues around urban and regional areas, particularly in the developing countries.
Undergraduate International Course Program of Global Engineering
Richard Makokha Wanjala (Kenya)
“I seek to learn the high quality standards of Japanese technologies”
The reason why I chose to attend this international course was because I wish to gain an understanding of technologies in Japan. I also knew that I would be able to gain a broad range of experiences here, as students gather from countries around the world.
In the future, I hope to continue into graduate studies, to attain Master’s and Doctoral degrees and be able to actively utilize everything I learn.
Courses offered by K.U.PROFILE:
http://www.opir.kyoto-u.ac.jp/kuprofile/e/index.html
Further information about Japanese universities supported by the “Global 30”:
http://www.uni.international.mext.go.jp/
2) Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation/ Awards, etc.
Honjo International Scholarship Foundation
●Program: The Foreign Student’s Scholarship (for graduate students) 2012
■Summary: A scholarship for international students studying at Japanese graduate schools. The scholarship is provided mainly to foreign students studying at graduate schools in Japan for the purpose of earning a doctoral degree.
■Deadline: Wednesday, November 30, 2011
■URL: http://www.hisf.or.jp/english/scholarship/index.html
Hasegawa International Scholarship Foundation
●Program: 2012 (9th Term) Scholarship
■Summary: Provides scholarship to exchange students from Asia who reside and attend colleges and universities in the Tokyo Metropolitan area so that they will be able to continue further in-depth studies and research to contribute to the enhancement of the international society.
■Eligibility: (1) Any exchange students from Asia enrolled in a university (including junior college and graduate school) in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area and residing within the Tokyo Metropolis. (2) Any such student recommended by the president or faculty head of the school where the student is enrolled.
■Application periods: Friday, December 2, 2011
■URL: http://www.hasegawa-zaidan.or.jp/eng.html
Advanced Institute of Industrial Technology
●Program: The 5th Design Contest
■Summary: We are holding the 5th Advanced Institute of Industrial Technology Design Contest for the purposes of deepening the understanding of "the innovation of manufacturing with design and engineering" in our Master Program of Innovation for Design and Engineering, and uncovering creative craftsmanship and ideas. This year's theme is "MAMORU" (protecting).
■Eligibility: Graduate school, university, junior college, technical college or professional training college students who are interested in industrial design.
■Application period: Friday, November 11, 2011 - Wednesday, November 30, 2011
■URL: http://aiit.ac.jp/view.rbz?nd=117&ik=1&pnp=105&pnp=117&cd=595 (In Japanese Only)
3) Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation Information and Reports
Friends of Asian Students along the Tojo Line
http://www.geocities.jp/asianogakusei/ (In Japanese Only)
― What was the reason for founding this organization?
In the winter of 1987, there was a sad incident in which an international student (who was a pre-college student at the time) starved to death at an apartment in Niiza City in Saitama Prefecture. This inspired us to create the Friends of Asian Students along the Tojo Line, with the goal of having members (mainly salaried workers and homemakers) give support to international students. Since its establishment, the main activities of this organization have included exchange between international students and Japanese people in the region, as well as providing scholarships.
―Who can apply?
International students from Asia who are attending professional training colleges, or universities along the Tobu Tojo Line (the railway that connects Ikebukuro Station [Tokyo] and Yorii Station [Saitama Prefecture]) are eligible for the scholarship.
― What are the characteristics of your organization?

Because we don’t accept applications for scholarship recipients from throughout Japan, our scale is quite small. We are a citizens’ group that provides support through exchange between Asian international students and Japanese people in the region. The Friends of Asian Students directly hands over scholarship funds to recipients at scholarship award ceremonies held when scholarship recipients and members get together, such as at events.
―What is the amount of the scholarship?
We provide 240,000 yen over one year. The sources of the scholarship funds are mainly donations, membership fees from members, financial assistance from corporations, etc.
―What are the selection criteria?
Firstly, we consider what amount of financial assistance is required. Afterwards, we award scholarships to international students who feel the importance of exchange with Japanese people. Anything is acceptable as exchange with Japanese people – club activities, volunteering, part-time jobs, etc. Please tell us about these experiences and what sort of activities you want to do in the future. Applicants must also submit an approximately 1,200-character essay in Japanese. In 2011 applicants submitted essays on one of two themes: “Exchange with Japanese People” or “Something Unfavorable that Happened to me in Japan.”
―How can one apply?
Applications are taken from late April each year. Applicants first send us their documents. Afterwards, applicants who pass the paper screening are interviewed and selected. There are many cases in which exchange continues with international students who weren’t selected, such as by having them participate in the activities of the organization.
― What sort of projects do you do in addition to scholarships?

In addition to holding bazaars for which earnings are used as scholarship funds, we also carry out activities to deepen friendship several times a year, such as cooking events for tasting food from the home countries of international students and the Kimono Project.
JIRCAS International Symposium 2011
“Trends of International Rice Research and Japanese Scientific Contribution - Support to GRiSP and CARD”
■Date: Monday, November 14, 2011, 13:45~17:45
■Venue: Tsukuba International Congress Center, Epochal, Convention Hall 200
■Organized by: Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS)
■URL: http://www.jircas.affrc.go.jp/english/event/20111114.html
The 20th Symposium on the International Medical Cooperation
“New Development of Measures against Diabetes”
■Date: Friday, November 18, 2011, 13:00~17:30
■Venue: National Center for Global Health and Medicine, NCGM 5F
■Organized by: Japan Foundation for the Promotion of International Medical Research Cooperation
■URL: http://www.pimrc.or.jp/sympo20.html (In Japanese Only)
3rd Sapporo Bio Cluster International Symposium-2011
■Date: Friday, November 18, 2011, 13:00~17:55
■Venue: Royton Sapporo 3F
■Organized by: Sapporo Bio Cluster BIO-S, Northern Advancement Center for Science & Technology (NOASTEC)
■URL: http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ss/kgs/111118sympo12.pdf (PDF:807KB) (In Japanese Only)
EcoDesign2011
■Date: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 – Friday, December 2, 2011
■Venue: Kyoto TERSA (Kyoto Citizen's Amenity Plaza)
■Organized by: Union of EcoDesigners (Association of EcoDesign Societies, Japan), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST, Japan)
■URL: http://www.ecodenet.com/ed2011/eng/indexeng.html
International Symposium on EcoTopia Science 2011
■Date: Friday, December 9, 2011 – Sunday, December 11, 2011
■Venue: Nagoya University Noyori Conference Hall, Integrated Building(IB)
■Organized by: Organizing committee of ISETS '11, EcoTopia Science Institute, Nagoya University
■URL: http://www.esi.nagoya-u.ac.jp/h/isets11/
Japanese Language Proficiency Test
Mailing Date of Examination Voucher: Friday, November 11, 2011
Date: Sunday, December 4, 2011
BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test
Date: Sunday, November 20, 2011
※Please note BJT will be held only once in FY2011.
J.TEST (Test of Practical Japanese) (In Japanese Only)
Date: Sunday, November 13, 2011
JSST (In Japanese Only)
Date: as needed
Taking the examination in China (In Chinese Only)
Provide information related to job hunting for current international students and graduates!
1) Job Hunting-Related Event Information
*Tokyo Employment Service Center for Foreigners
●Job paper seminar for international students (Tuesday, November 15, 2011) (PDF: 101KB) (In Japanese Only)
●Job-hunting guidance for international students (Friday, November 11, Monday, November 28, and Friday, Decmber 9, 2011) (In Japanese Only)
●Job interview seminar for international students (Tuesday, November 22, 2011) (In Japanese Only)
*Nagoya Employment Service Center for Foreigners
●Employment-support guidance for international students (Every 2nd Wednesday a month)
●Employment-video seminar for international students
●Employment-support practice interview for international students (Every Tuesday, Thursday, 2011)
*Osaka Employment Service Center for Foreigners
●Career guidance for international students (Thursday, November 24, 2011) (PDF: 97KB) (In Japanese Only)
●Internship for international students (In Japanese Only)
●Job interview session for international students (Monday, November 28, 2011) (PDF:328KB) (In Japanese Only)
*Fukuoka Gakusei Shokugyo Center (In Japanese Only)
●Job-search seminar for International Students (PDF:843KB) (In Japanese Only)
<For International students>
●International Job Fair (Saturday, December 17, 2011) (Tokyo: Akihabara Urban Development X 4F)(In Japanese Only)
<For both International and Japanese students>
●2011-Autamn Kitakyushu Joint Recruiting Fair (Friday, November 11, 2011) (Kitakyushu Chamber of Commerce and Industry) (West Japan General Exhibition Center) (In Japanese Only)
●Wakayama Bright Companies 2nd Joint Recruiting Fair (Tuesday, November 15, 2011) (Wakayama Bright Companies) (Wakayama: Wakayama Big Ai, Big Hall) (In Japanese Only)
<Site list for International Students>
●Nikkei Shushoku Navi “For International Students”(Nikkei Human Resources Inc./ DISCO International, Inc.) (In Japanese Only)
●MYNAVI “A Guide to Employment for Foreign Students”(Mynavi Corporation) (In Japanese Only)
●Shushoku Japan (The Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry/ JAFSA: Japan Network for International Education / Japan Date Vision) (In Japanese Only)
●Gakujo Navi “For International Students” (Gakujo Co., Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
<"Job Fair and Seminar" Site list>
Shukatsu Lab 2012 (ACCESS HUMANEXT CO., LTD.) (In Japanese Only)
"Gou-setsu.com" 2012 (Chikanari. Co.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Gakujo Navi 2012 (Gakujo Co., Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Shukatsu Navi 2012 (Diamond-big and lead Co.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Career Forum 2012 (DISCO International, Inc.) (In Japanese Only)
Bunnavi! Job Seminar 2012 (BUNKAHOSO Career PartnersCo.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
MAINAVI Job Seminar 2012 (Mynavi Corporation) (In Japanese Only)
JOBWAY 2012 (The National Conference of the Association of Small Business Entrepreneurs) (In Japanese Only)
2) Job Hunting Reports from Former International Students

Name: Mr. Zhou Ming
Nationality: China
University in Japan: Toyo University
Major Field of Study: Faculty of Regional Development Studies
Period of Stay in Japan: September 2003 – October 2011
Name of Company: Don Quijote Co.,Ltd.
The level of Japanese-Language: JLPT Lv. 1, BJT: J2
In continuation of the October issue, we will introduce the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students.
Click here for the October Job Hunting Consultations (special edition)
First of all, we spoke with Mr. Tsujitani of Mynavi Corporation – which is cooperating for the operation of the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students – about this year’s job hunting situation for international students, as well as the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students.
■ Please tell us about recent trends in the employment of international students by Japanese corporations.
Currently, many Japanese corporations are promoting the globalization of their business and organizations. To give one example, despite the fact that the number of regular employees in Japan slightly declined over the ten years from 1997, the number of resident employees overseas has conversely increased by 1.5 times (according to a labor force survey by the General Affairs Agency). What do you think is the most significant issue for the globalization of corporations? The answer is acquiring and training human resources who can implement this globalization.
That was actually also the answer given most frequently in a survey conducted for member companies of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives. Considering these circumstances, many corporations now have great expectations for and are paying significant attention to international students as human resources who understand not only language but also understand Japanese culture, and who can serve to connect their company with the world. Over the past two to three years, special features for international students are being included on job hunting websites such as Mynavi, and job hunting events for international students have come to be held. It seems we have entered a stage in which the employment of international students in Japan has finally begun to be established.
■ Is the number of Japanese corporations that are attempting to employ international students increasing each year?
What experiences have you heard about from older students and other people? The number of Japanese corporations that are attempting to employ international students is increasing, probably more than you imagine. In the periodic survey of corporations conducted by Mynavi, the percentage of corporations who answered, “We are proactively employing international students” or “We are employing international students” was 13.7% in December 2007. In contrast, it was 46.4% in December 2010 – three times larger than the previous amount.
■ What are the benefits of participating in the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students?
This Seminar includes a broad range of elements required for beginning preparations for job hunting. We offer an ample amount of content, including various types of lectures on diverse themes, advice from older students, counseling, distribution of guidebooks, and more. Everyone is looking forward to the corporate booths, and many corporations who have long had a proactive stance regarding the employment of international students will attend this Seminar. I am sure that these corporations will provide appropriate answers to your questions and other concerns.
■ What sort of corporations (industries) will exhibit at the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students?
Corporations in a wide range of industries are scheduled to exhibit, including manufacturers, trading companies, finance, IT, distribution, services, and more. A characteristic feature of job hunting activities in Japan is that they involve deepening understanding while carrying out wide-ranging research and activities, and gradually narrowing down your industries and places to apply. Please take this opportunity to learn about the structures of jobs and industries, and work to match these with what you hope to do and accomplish.
[Respondent: Mr. Katsuyoshi Tsujitani, Manager, Navi Management Department, Job Hunting Information Division,
Mynavi Corporation]
As Mr. Tsujitani said, Japanese corporations are proactively employing international students in recent years. However, many international students are not necessarily able to obtain the information they need. We often hear that international students are concerned about which Japanese corporations are employing international students.
The Japan Student Services Organization holds the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students for international students who have such concerns. Because this Seminar makes it possible to obtain a great deal of information in a short period of time, many people attend it each year. The amount of information gathered differs by how you move throughout the venue in the limited amount of time of one day. For that reason, we will introduce one example for how much to prepare before the Seminar and how to efficiently move throughout the venue on the day of the Seminar.

■ How to walk around the Seminar venue
~Using time in an efficient manner~
We will introduce an efficient method of moving throughout the venue for people who want to walk about the Seminar in an efficient way, who want to visit many corporate booths, or who wish to know what order to move about the venue where many various events are taking place. Please make use of the information below to effectively use your valuable time.
Making preparations to attend the Seminar
Perhaps some people have doubts regarding whether or not it is necessary to prepare to attend the Seminar, but not making these preparations will impact the way you use your time on the day of the Seminar. For that reason, we recommend making careful preparations before the day of the Seminar.
(1) Check the list of participating corporations ahead of time to narrow down the booths you wish to visit: The JASSO website includes a list of participating corporations. View this list to choose the companies you are interested in, and then view information including the websites of the corporations ahead of time to gather information about the content of their business, future directions, what type of human resources they require, and employment information. If you have any doubts or questions, you can confirm them with staff members at the venue on the day of the Seminar. In this way, you can spend your time in a more worthwhile manner.
(2) The Industry Seminars only require advance reservations: The Industry Seminars feature lectures by employment staff at corporations representing various industries, such as the industries’ structures, work content, employment of and expectations regarding international students, etc. Advance reservations are required for these seminars only, so please check the list of participating corporations ahead of time and register for the seminars of corporations you are interested in. Furthermore, please do not fail to make reservations for Corporate Seminars you definitely want to attend. However, on the day of the Seminar people who wish to attend the Corporate Seminars may participate on a first-come, first-served basis after the people who made reservations have entered the venue.
Visiting the corporate booths
On the day of the Seminar, please move through the venue while checking the venue map distributed at the venue, and visit the corporate booths that you confirmed ahead of time. However, many participants may always be present at some booths, so it’s important to move about while being aware of open seats. Take care that you don’t wait there until it is your turn and thus lack sufficient time to visit the booths you planned to. It’s a good idea to visit as many corporate booths as possible, and to talk to and ask questions of employment staff at various corporations.
The Seminar is a treasure house of information!
It’s very important to gather information by visiting Orientations, Job Hunting Consultations, Industry Seminars, and more at the Seminar venue. However, many international students and people who are engaged in job hunting activities also attend this event. For that reason, it’s good to take this opportunity to exchange information with people from other countries and other people hunting for jobs, which will mutually inspire you to be more motivated.
Job Hunting Consultations in December will be the last issue to introduce the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students. Make sure not to miss it!
4) Convenient Job Hunting Information
Useful website information for job-seekers

This month, we will introduce you some websites which are useful for job hunting. Now, at a time when smartphones are becoming ever more widespread, and what kind of information you choose to access is becoming increasingly important, which websites have those former international students who have successfully found employment been using?
The sites run by job hunting support corporations of course offer information on job hunting and various related seminars, but they also provide lots of other useful information which will aid your job hunting activities, such as how to write a rirekisho (resume), collections of sample interview questions, and how to research particular industries. Because of the globalization trends of recent years, support sites run by major corporations, which previously catered for Japanese students, are now starting to provide a wealth of information for international students. In addition, corporations, self-governing bodies and nonprofit organizations which have supported international students from the very beginning also have websites, so please refer to the Job Hunting-Related Event Information section of "Japan Alumni eNews."
Job hunting support sites also contain advice on answering sample interview questions; however, if you depend on the sample answers too much, you may not give such a good impression. At interviews, you must always do your best to speak using your own words. Interviewers, who have been in contact with many applicants, are anticipating the unique vitality and potential that international students bring.
Furthermore, the comprehensive "Job Hunting Guide for International Students" (JASSO) carefully explains the details of job hunting from the preparation stage, and also introduces various occupations. In addition to Japanese and English versions, there are also Chinese (Traditional / Simplified) and Korean translated versions. You can browse or download all pages from the website. Furthermore, every month "Japan Alumni eNews" also lists information on websites and events useful for job hunting.
In addition, we have heard that the following sites have been used for additional job hunting information.
President Vision (In Japanese Only)
It is an e-mail newsletter for company presidents, by company presidents, with a readership of over 100,000. You can get exposure to the policies of business managers, which will aid you in your research of the industry. (B.O, China)
International Foreign Students Association (IFSA) (In Japanese Only)
In addition to information on job hunting and seminars, you can also access the "Kougaku Shimbun" introducing experiences of former international students who are now working in various industries. From these websites I learnt how to present myself, whilst also learning fundamentals such as information on various industries and business etiquette. (C.K, South Korea)
EDINET (In Japanese Only)
It is a website where you can browse disclosure pages of financial securities reports. You can find out about a company's financial situation, so it was useful when investigating the condition of the companies I was interested in working for. (E.A, France)
Nensyu-Labo (In Japanese Only)
In this website annual income levels are analyzed by industry, company or qualifications, etc. You can also get detailed information by prefecture and by age. (S.T, Taiwan)
NAVI TIME (In Japanese Only)
If you enter your starting point and your destination, you can search routes and fares. In order to arrive at the place for your examinations and interviews in good time, it is a good idea to look up how to get there ahead of time. It is very convenient because you can search maps and enlarge or reduce their scale freely. (S.H, China)
How was that? From this year, public information on recruitment such as company information sessions will be released in December – two months later than usual. Using these websites, prepare as best you can. We support international students, enabling them to fulfill their potential.
Text: Japan Alumni eNews Editorial Desk
Why not try traveling throughout Japan? Famous places, events, and cuisine information from around Japan!
In the November issue of Visit Japan, we focus on Japan's capital, Tokyo, in continuation of the last month issue. This time we introduce some spots recommended by our editorial department.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Rising high above Shinjuku, the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government moved from its old location in Marunouchi in 1991. Apart from its function as a government office, the building has plenty to offer sightseers, such as an observation deck, objets d'art, and many restaurants. We recommend the "North Observation Deck", where you can enjoy panoramic views, 202 meters above street level. On a clear day, it is possible for you to see Mount Fuji. Admission is free and it is open until 11pm, so you can have dinner and then enjoy the nighttime view afterwards.

Mount Takao
Around 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku, Mount Takao is easy to get to and is visited by many sightseers throughout the year. You can take the lift or the cable car halfway up the mountain, so it is also recommended also for people who are not confident about their fitness level. Mount Takao is famous for "Tororo Soba" noodles, and there are numerous soba restaurants around the mountain. If you climb Mount Takao, be sure to try them.

Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo is the zoo with the longest history in Japan, and you can see animals from around the world, such as Sumatran tigers, polar bears, Asian elephants and Barbary sheep. Particularly popular are the giant pandas, Li Li (female) and Shin Shin (male). As of November 2011, there are only three zoos in Japan where you can see pandas: Ueno Zoo, Adventure World (Wakayama Prefecture) and Kobe City Oji Zoo (Hyogo Prefecture). Come to Ueno Zoo and enjoy the adorable pandas.

Akihabara
When it comes to sightseeing in Tokyo, many of you probably think of Akihabara's Electric Town. Akihabara is not only famous globally for electronic goods, but also for being a "Mecca for Otakus." Why not visit the "AKB48 Theater", where you can see stage performances by idol group AKB48, or visit one of the various unusual cafes such as a "Maid Cafe", "Gundam Cafe", or "Butler Cafe" to experience a little otaku culture.
* "Otaku" is fan of a particular interest, such as idol, anime, manga, or video games.
Tsukishima Monjayaki
Tsukishima's "Nishinaka-dori Shotengai" contains so many monjayaki restaurants that it is frequently referred to as "Tsukishima Monja-dori." Each of the over 70 monjayaki restaurants has its own unique taste and original menu, and there are endless crowds of repeat customers.
Monjayaki is cooked in a rather unique way, so those of you visiting a monjayaki restaurant for the first time should ask the staff to show you the correct way to cook it. Check out a variety of restaurants with your friends and find everyone's favorite one.
Tokyo Tourism Info official website "Tokyo Tourism"
Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Introduction to Tokyo page
This section features enjoyable stories about pop culture, traditions, dining, cutting-edge technology, and more!
You often see scenes of astronauts eating on TV, but what springs to mind when you hear the term "space food"? What kinds of space food do you think are available?

There are "rehydratable foods" such as powdered juice, where you just add hot or cold water before eating; "natural form foods" which can be opened and eaten as is; "thermostabilized foods" which can be heated before eating; as well as various condiments in liquid form so they do not fly about everywhere. The number of calories in space food is calculated based on the daily calories required on Earth, taking into account the age, gender and bodyweight of each astronaut. However, the role of space food is not simply to maintain their health. Just as with normal meals, it has the effect of reducing stress and refreshing ones feelings.

There are very strict requirements for space food. They are "safety", "the ability to be stored for long periods", "high hygiene" and "not presenting any risk factors when eating". The "Safety" requirement demands that the packaging be difficult to burn, and that in the event that it does catch fire, no poisonous gases are emitted as a result. Risk factor refers to spillage or fine power flying about and affecting electrical systems and the air. The requirements set for space food are much stricter than those for typical food on earth. For example, making the foods which can be eaten as is thicker, so that they do not fly about.
The space food on the International Space Station (ISS) used to be supplied by Russia and America with a ten-day rotation, each providing five-days-worth. Japanese astronauts also experience life on the ISS, and in order to develop a wider variety of space food, "Japanese Space Food Development" study was started in 2001. In 2004, under a normative document, the "ISS FOOD PLAN", the menu cycle was changed to 16 days, with the international partner countries including Japan, all supplying food to the ISS.

Currently, "Japanese Space Food" consists of 29 items from 12 companies, including food in retort pouches and dehydrated foods, approved by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). "Japanese Space Food" is not necessarily limited to traditional Japanese cuisine. There are also items such as ramen, egg soup, and curry. Approval requires that the Japanese food safety standards set forth in the "ISS FOOD PLAN" are observed. The packaging is small, lightweight and cleverly designed to make the food easy to prepare and eat. Japanese food is recognized around the world as being very healthy, so it is expected that astronauts from other nations staying at the ISS for long periods will also enjoy it. It will be interesting to see what kind of menu is developed in the future -- when space travel becomes more widely available.

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Website
Text: Japan Alumni eNews Editorial Department
Introducing JASSO Scholarship information, invitation program, Japan Education Fairs, the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students(EJU)
1) 2011 Job Hunting Prep Seminar for International Students
[Scheduled to be held]
Date: Sunday, December 18, 2011, 10:00~17:00
Venue: Osaka
Osaka International House Foundation
Date: Friday, December 23, 2011, 10:00~17:00
Venue: Tokyo
Tokyo International Exchange Center Plaza HEISEI
Note: This event was scheduled to be held on December 4, but has been rescheduled to December 23.
.
2) Japan Education Fairs / Japan Education Seminars
[Scheduled to be held]
Japan Education Fairs (International Education Fairs)
Date: Saturday, December 10, 2011 – Sunday, December 11, 2011, 12:00~18:00
Venue: Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur)
Putra World Trade Centre
3)Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
2011 EJU (2nd Session)
Examination Date: Sunday, November 13, 2011
Mailing Date of Score Report: Tuesday, December 20, 2011 (scheduled)
・Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship For Short-Term Study in Japan)
・Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship For Short-Term Visit/Short-Term Stay Program)
5) Information about Study Abroad in Japan Events Held by or Participated in by JASSO Overseas Representative Offices
[Scheduled to be held]
Event: Japan Educational Seminar (Vietnam and the Philippines)
Objective: Japan educational Seminar (Vietnam and the Philippines) will be held by leading universities under the “Global 30” Project aiming for high school students and university students.
Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2011, 10:00~17:00
Venue: Vietnam National University (VNU) Hanoi
Address: 1F (Gymnasium) and 2F (Seminar room), Multi-purpose house (A7 Building), University of Languages and International Studies, No. 01 Pham Van Dong Road, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, VNU Hanoi
Date: Thursday, November 17, 2011, 10:00~17:00
Venue: SEAMEO RETRAC
Address: 35 Le Thanh Ton. Dist1, Ho Chi Minh City
Date: Saturday, November 19, 2011, 13:00~18:00
Venue: University of the Philippines
Address: UP NISMED:National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development(E.Quirino Ave. UP Campus Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines)
Please refer to our website for further information.
http://www.uni.international.mext.go.jp/info/2011/09/vietnam/?lang=en (English)
http://www.uni.international.mext.go.jp/info/2011/09/vietnam/?lang=vi (Vietnamese)
6)Reports on International Students' Local Exchange Activities Supported by the Nakajima Foundation
-NPO Ryugaku Kyokai (Study Abroad Support council)
-Niigata International Association
-Mothers and Students Association
-Meguro International Friendship Association (MIFA)
-NPO Relationship and Kindness are the Kings of Peace
Message from our reader!

I am Dr. Shaikh Tanveer Hossain of Bangladesh. I have achieved the Ph.D. in Agriculture degree from United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Ehime University in March 2008.
As a former student of Ehime University, it is pleasure to inform you that I have been awarded the prestigious Organic Farming Innovation Award (OFIA) for the contribution in field of organic research and development in an occasion of 17th International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) Organic World Congress (OWC) held in Namyangju City, Gyeonggi Province, Republic of Korea on September 30, 2011.
In this connection, I received a 10,000 (ten) thousand US$ cash prize and a plaque as this grand prize. More than 2,000 foreign delegates were attended the event from 76 countries. My Ph.D. supervisor Professor Dr. Hideki SUGIMOTO, Lab. of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University was also present in the award ceremony program.
Please find a few photographs in this program.
Dr. Shaikh Tanveer Hossain (Bangladesh)
To JASSO
Thank you very much for this month JASSO report.
Arun Shrestha (Nepal)
Thanks Alumni Newsletter and JASSO. I received e- mail from JASSO. I am very happy for JASSO Activities. I will try to attend the foreign student seminar.
Mohammad Abdul Haiul (Bangladesh)
(Dispense with the Mr. and Mrs.)
[From the Editor]
In last month’s News on International Students there was an article about national museums in Tokyo and Kyoto holding “International Student Days” with free admission for international students. Have you gone to visit yet? In addition to the things on display at art galleries and museums, there are also many things to see including their actual buildings, gardens, and shops. For example, there is the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, which was designed by Tadao Ando (a famous Japanese architect). Another example is the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, which was designed by a SANAA, a group of two architects. Their unique concepts are famous even throughout the world. Autumn is the season of fine art, and taking a stroll about an art museum will refresh you and might lead to unexpected discoveries!
The December issue of “Japan Alumni eNews” will be sent on December 9. Please look forward to it!
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Follow-up Services Unit Exchange, Follow-up and Housing Division,
Student Exchange Department
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
2-2-1 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8630 JAPAN
Tel: +81-3-5520-6033
Fax: +81-3-5520-6034
E-mail: alumni-newsletter@jasso.go.jp
* Information in this issue may change without notice. Please visit their web sites for latest information.
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