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Japan Alumni eNews (Vol. 33) 
Japan Alumni eNews Vol. 33 January 10, 2012
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 “Former International Students” / JASSO Public Facilities to Access Information on Study in Japan / Introduction of “Programs for former international students ”
3. Academic News -- Introducing Faculties/Graduate Schools / Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation/ Awards, etc. / Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation Information and Reports / Japanese Language Test
4. Business News -- Guidebook for International Students in Preparation for Job Hunting 2013 / 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 -- Follow-up Research Fellowship (invitation program) / Follow-up Research Guidance (dispatch program) / Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU) / Notice from Osaka Japanese Language Education Center / [Report] A report from JASSO's South Korean office / ) Follow-up Research Guidance (Reports for FY 2010)
8. From the Reader -- Impressions from our readers! / Correction
Life in Japan shown through photos. We look forward to your submissions!
Introducing winter in Japan through photos!
Did you enjoy photos of winter in Japan? The theme for February is "My friends in Japan", so please send us photos.
Introduce news related to international students and student experiences!
1) News on International Students
News 1: The Job Hunting Prep Seminar for Foreign Students (2011)
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) held the Job Hunting Prep Seminar for Foreign Students (2011) on Sunday, December 18th (Osaka) and Friday, December 23rd (Tokyo). These events included speeches by participating corporations, as well as seminars on topics such as experiences of and preparations for job hunting activities. Students listened enthusiastically to prepare for the full-scale job hunting activities that they were about to begin.
News 2: Korean international students learn about old-fashioned amusements
A total of 33 first-year students enrolled in the Japanese Language and Tourism Department of Yeoju University in Korea recently experienced origami, ayatori (string figure games), and other pastimes through the guidance of members of the Sanda UNESCO Association (chairman: Toshio Shimamura). The students spent a short one-month period studying abroad at Minatogawa College (Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture) with the goal of learning about Japanese language and culture. At this event they enjoyed experiencing traditional Japanese amusements, taking commemorative photographs, and other activities.
News 3: Parents, children, and international students create candy houses
An event was recently held at the Yugakusha in Akita City to make gingerbread houses, which are houses made from a variety of sweet food products that are displayed in American homes during the winter holiday season. This event was planned by the Akita America Japan Society for international exchange and to deepen mutual understanding. A total of 29 people participated, including six international students from Akita International University, and attempted to build colorful gingerbread houses from crackers, meringue, and other foods.
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2) Introduction of “Former International Students”
Ms. Warintorn Wuwongse (Thailand)
Completion of Graduate School of Ochanomizu University in 1980 (Comparative Education)
Currently, Professor in the Department of Japanese, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Thammasat University
Hello everyone. Currently, I am teaching in the Japanese research master’s course of the Department of Japanese, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Thammasat University in Bangkok. My students are mainly Thai graduate students who are studying Japanese language and doing researches about Japan. I started teaching just after coming back from Japan, so I have already 27 years career here. I participate in following education/edification activities as a teacher of National University: a Chairman of Japanese Language and Culture Teachers Association of Thailand (JTAT), a committee member of Thai Department of Education, a review committee member of private university review board, etc. Also as a volunteer, I am doing an activity for human-rights issue. As for the research, I have been studying mainly personality building of Japanese children and school training. Currently, I am doing research with the theme of “University Reforms in Japan.” Today, I would like to talk about some memories of my student life during I spent in Japan for 8 years (1975-1983).
After studying Japanese language in Tokyo University of Foreign Studies Japanese language school, I entered the Faculty of Letters and Education of Ochanomizu University. When I was a freshman, I could not understand the Japanese in the classes, so I always asked my friends for help. At that time, the Japanese language course was newly prepared by the university for the international students who had troubles with understanding Japanese during classes like me. The lessons provided in the course were not the grammar classes like typical Japanese language school, but mainly reading training. The text books were not for Japanese language study, but the books which ordinary Japanese people read. We read those books with making discussions. Through struggling, I enjoy studying Japanese in this course by having enthusiastic coaching from teachers. But I really had tough time for the graduation thesis. When I completed 138 pages thesis, I was so happy with joy and sense of accomplishment that my hard work for Japanese language study and researches were paid off.
What I felt interested in Ochanomizu University was that almost all teachers were male while students were all female. What I saw the first time in Japan were earthquakes and snow which I never experienced in Thailand, the culture of sento (public bath) and trains, subways, department stores, home electric appliances which had not been developed in Thailand at that time. Those impressions are still fresh in my mind.
I lived in Oyama dormitory house maintained by the university. All the dormitory operations were done by a rota system. For me, the telephone was the most difficult. There were 4 phones in the dormitory (3 buildings of A, B and C, all rooms were for 4 students each). Sometimes, more than 2 phones were ringing at the same time and I was in trouble which one I should take first. To start with, I was not good at talking in Japanese via phone. I was so nervous that I got tired when it was my turn for telephones.
One of the fun thing in dormitory life was “Go-Hi Go-Kon Activity (dating-hiking/dating-party).” This was the similar as current “Go-Kon (dating-party)” but a little bit larger scale. I would say that it would be rather “Kon-Katsu (marriage hunting)” in a current new Japanese word. We coordinated so that we would be the same number of girls with boys, and enjoy eating and singing together. Then we exchanged phone numbers with compatible people. Usually 10 to 15 boys and girls participated. The girl students had to make lunch for two. Mainly the first and second grade students had this activity, that was one of good old memories. Including the dormitory life, the international student life in Ochanomizu University is absolutely my true youth days, that was really precious experience.
3) JASSO Public Facilities to Access Information on Study in Japan
Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (JUAAN)
Introduction & Activities
Background
Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (formerly Japanese Universities Students’ Alumni Association) was established in 1973, the first such association in South Asia. It would be noteworthy to mention that the first president of the Association was Mr Padma S. Malla who was student of Tokyo Koto Kogyo Gakko, present day Tokyo Institute of technology, in 1916. Mr. Malla was also the first electrical engineer of Nepal. Earlier a group of eight students went to Japan in 1902 for higher studies.
The aim of JUAAN is to unite all students who have returned to Nepal from Japan in order to contribute their knowledge and skill acquired in Japan for the national development. Apart from this, fostering mutual understanding and friendship with Japan through various cultural activities have been its regular programs. This Association was reorganized in 1996 with its present name for the purpose of expanding its activities.
The relationship between Nepali students and the people of Japan is over a hundred years, and there are close links between the cultural heritage of Nepal and the traditional Japanese culture through deep-rooted history that goes back centuries. With this in mind JUAAN makes all efforts to nurture and promote better understanding and friendship between the people of Nepal and Japan.
JUAAN has over 200 members. They include professionals working with academia, government, and non-government institutions.
Regular Activities
JUAAN’s major activities are: Quarterly Benkyokai (Study Meeting), Kangekai (Welcome Party), annual Education Fair – Study in Japan, Orientation for new Monbukagakusho students, Ikebana classes, and Japanese Film Show. The Association brings out an annual publication the JUAAN Bulletin which contains reports on its various activities as well as original articles highlighting the relation between Japan and Nepal.
Benkyo-kai, study meeting, is a regular activity of JUAAN. JUAAN invites a guest speaker to discuss on contemporary Japanese affairs and other topics of special interest. Japanese experts and Nepali national specialized in Japanese affairs are invited to deliver lectures. In Kangekai, newly returned scholars from Japan are invited to give their introduction and speak about their experiences.
JUAAN organized the first meeting of the South Asian Federation of Japanese Universities Alumni Association (SAFJUAA) on March 29, 2005 in Kathmandu. The meeting prepared the first draft of SAFJUAA Charter which was formally endorsed at the 5th Reunion Program (Tsudoi) held in Tokyo, in December 2005. Member countries organize the SAFJUAA annual meeting by rotation. One of the aims of SAFJUAA is to maintain a network among former students of Japanese universities as well as link with Japan. In 2010, with the support of the Government of Japan, JUAAN organized 3rd SAFJUAA Reunion and Symposium of Japan and South Asia: Capacity Building for Knowledge Based Society from March 13-14. Delegates from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka participated in the program.
JUAAN organizes Education Fair entitled Study in Japan, which is focused to university students of graduate and undergraduate level. In 2010, Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) took keen interest in the activity and sent its representative during the fair. JUAAN also organizes orientation programs for the newly selected Nepali students under the scholarship scheme of Monbukagakusho to study in Japan. The objective of the orientation program is to acquaint the students with Japanese life style and education system and prepare them for hard works in achieving their academic goals in the Japanese universities.
Beside the above regular activities, JUAAN actively participates in other programs such as Karaoke Competition, Japanese Language Speech Competition where its members contribute as jury in them. In its Annual General Meeting, JUAAN felicitates senior alumni who have made significant contribution in promoting understanding between the peoples of Japan and Nepal through his/her fields.
Other Activities
Trust Committee
JUAAN manages the Sakai Lions Club and Imanishi Memorial Fellowship Trust. Named after the renowned Japanese climber Mr. Toshio Imanishi who first ascended Mt. Manaslu in 1958, the Trust’s objective is to promote cultural exchange and understanding between the people of Japan and Nepal. The Trust has been providing research fellowships and organizing programs through JUAAN. The Trust organizes Essay Competition every year and call for articles from Nepali intellectuals that would promote relationship between Japan and Nepal. The best articles are awarded with Letter of Appreciation and cash prizes.
Sakura Plantation in Kathmandu
JUAAN, with the cooperation of the Embassy of Japan planted over one hundred samplings of different varieties of Sakura to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan on September 1, 2006. The Sakura was donated by the Sakura Association of Japan and with the cooperation of Mr. Tatsuo Morimoto, a tree doctor, of Miyazaki City. JUAAN also organizes Ohanami occasionally as a part of its activities.
Conserving World Heritage Site
Nepal is bestowed with cultural and natural heritages, four of which are proclaimed as World Heritage Sites. In 2001, JUAAN took an initiative to restore and clean the environment of the historic temple Changunarayan and its premises. Changunarayan is a World Heritage Site in Bhaktapur, about 12 km from capital city Kathmandu. The initiative reconstructed rest houses, historic pond, stone spot, and also installed an incinerator at nearby picnic site. The program was supported by the Embassy of Japan through the Grass Roots Project Scheme.
The 100th Anniversary of Nepali Students in Japan
In 1902 (Meiji 35 nen) the Government of Nepal dispatched a group of eight students to Japan for higher education. Thus, in 2002 JUAAN celebrated the 100th year of Nepali students in Japan with various cultural programs, a symposium and publication of books. Incidentally, these students were the first Nepali students to go abroad under a government scholarship. In this respect Nepali Leaders were among the pioneers to look to the East (Japan) for higher education. Seeds of wisteria (Fuji-no-hana), chrysanthemum (Kiku), persimmon (Kaki) and chestnut (Kuri) that were brought and sowed a century ago in Kathmandu by those youths still grow and bloom and remain as a lasting testimony to the spirit of the eight youths who took a voyage to Japan and to generous spirit of Nihon.
Study Center
In February 2005, JUAAN supported to open a Japanese Study Corner at the Central Library of Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu. Books on Japan were donated by the Trust. New books on Japan are being added every year.
Japan Universities Alumni Association, Nepal （JUAAN）
Contact:
General Secretary
Dr. Dinesh Raj Bhuju
DineshBhuju@gmail.com
4) Introduction of “Programs for former international students”
Okayama University “International Alumni Association”
■ 150 people took part in the kick-off ceremony
On October 22nd, in harvest time, the kick-off ceremony of the Okayama University “International Alumni Association” was held, and the alumni association was formed by past and current international students at Okayama University. The ceremony was held in the International House, which was opened this spring on the north side of the central library of the Tsushima campus, and over 150 persons took part. Guests included the Deputy-Consul General of the Chinese Embassy, members of Okayama prefecture's economic world, local self-governing bodies and international exchange groups, as well as alumni resident in Japan, current international students, alumni from overseas and university officials. Along with celebrating the establishment and exchanging information, participants enjoyed entertainments such as a tai-chi demonstration, a folk-instrument performance, and chorus singing by volunteers from China, South Korea and Bangladesh. Furthermore, the executives were introduced, starting with Chairman Zhang Hong, who had been involved with the preparations for the alumni association for half a year.
On the day, congratulatory messages received from the president of Okayama University, numerous institutions of higher education, many other local public bodies in Okayama City and alumni living overseas, were lined up along the wall, heightening the celebratory mood. The congratulatory telegrams were filled with messages of expectation, such as “May the network between alumni active in Japan and overseas expand further, and contribute not only to the development of your university, but also towards the globalization of the region” and “with the establishment of your association, may the ties between your university and international students become even deeper and become a new bridge connecting Japan with countries around the world.” All of the executive team would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude and will do our very best to live up to everyone's expectations.
■ Building a network for alumni active the world over.
Ever since Okayama University admitted its first international student in 1959, some 3,200 students have graduated or completed courses. Centering on Asian countries such as China, South Korea and Malaysia, we have had students from over 70 countries and regions around the world, such as Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Australia. Our objectives in establishing the Okayama University Alumni Association on this occasion, in an increasingly globalized world, are to strengthen our cooperation with alumni across countries, to build a network for graduates active throughout the world and renew old friendships with alumni, to aid in the improvement of the university's global competitiveness, and to be of use to both research and business.
■ Future activity plans
Soon we will create a website, and through the internet we will maintain a system whereby our members can exchange information with one another in both Japanese and English. We will publish a newsletter and disseminate information to the world, such as academic exchange, business information, university movements, how fellow members are getting along, as well as the operational status of the alumni association.
Overseas, we plan to set up Chinese branches in Shanghai and Dalian, and then one in South Korea. In Japan, we will first of all set up a Tokyo branch. We also intend to further cooperate with the Okayama University Alumni Association. Once a year we plan to hold a general assembly to interact with each other at our alma mater and renew old relationships.
Introduce scholarships, grants, unique efforts by universities, and more!
1) Introducing Faculties/Graduate Schools
Sophia University Faculty of Liberal Arts
[Profile] (
As of October 1, 2011)
◆Name： Sophia University Faculty of Liberal Arts
◆Location： 7-1 Kioicho Chiyoda-ku Tokyo
◆Website：http://www.fla.sophia.ac.jp/
◆Students Matriculated in the Faculty of Liberal Arts： 1,002
◆International students Matriculated in the Faculty of Liberal Arts： 281
◆Countries of Accepted International Students： 23
Ever since Sophia University's Faculty of Liberal Arts was established in 1949 (it was known initially as the “International Division”), it has lead the way in the globalization of Japanese universities with a curriculum in which all courses are taught in English. Currently, mainly Japanese students who finished high school overseas, students who graduated from international schools in Japan and international students study together. As international students constitute around 30 percent of the total student body, it goes without saying that the campus is multicultural. Regardless of hair or skin color, you could say that it is a faculty where a variety of personalities coexist.
The Faculty of Liberal Arts provides a world-class learning environment for students from a variety of backgrounds. Training to improve writing ability, thinking and presentation skills, regardless of any particular academic discipline (such as economics or physics) are conducted. In the first year, English ability is improved, and analytical skills and logical thinking are fostered. Once students have completed the first semester course in their second year, they choose their major from either “comparative culture”, “international business & economics” or “social studies” and learn the specialist knowledge of their chosen field. And in their third and fourth years, they study their majors systematically. As it is also possible for students to take courses conducted in Japanese in other faculties, they can acquire a wide range of knowledge.
Dean Interview
Sophia University Faculty of Liberal Arts Dean, Mr. Yoshitaka Okada
―Please tell us the Faculty of Liberal Arts' strong points
The Faculty of Liberal Arts is a faculty where students from diverse backgrounds study together. Before going to my first lessons of the year I check through the student name book, but it is quite common for the names and faces not to match the impression they give. Student exchange is really flourishing, and as of December 2010 we have student exchange agreements with as many as 159 schools. Not only do we take in international students, we also provide numerous opportunities for students who are studying at Sophia University's Faculty of Liberal Arts.
―How are the lessons conducted?
Honestly speaking, lessons at this faculty are tough. Even in my lessons, we use English textbooks and improve our reading skills and our ability to speak. There are reports to be handed in and presentations to be made in lessons every week. No doubt it is tough in the early days after admission, but making an effort in one’s own way in this tough environment ultimately leads to personal growth. As all lessons are conducted in English, it goes without saying that a level of English where you can understand technical terms in required. Particularly for English, Japanese students who have had no experience living abroad tend to struggle. However, by the time they have reached the fourth year, most of these students are on equal terms or better than many of the other students around them.
―Regarding the maintenance of a world-class learning environment
In order to invite outstanding students from around the world, education at the Faculty of Liberal Arts must of the highest level in the world. In the past, we heard from some exchange students, after they had finished their courses and returned home, that the content of courses at our faculty was “unsatisfactory.” If we are to take in students from the top-level universities of each country, then we have to have a curriculum which will satisfy them. Because of this, we hire lecturers with degrees from universities at the world level in each specialist area. The truth is, it is surprisingly difficult to secure quality lecturers. The globalization of universities is going on in a big way in many countries around the world, and the situation is that universities around the world are vying for outstanding lecturers. So we are not just recruiting students, but we are also consciously always recruiting and hiring teaching staff. It is worthwhile, and we have not received any reports from dissatisfied international students in a very long while.
2) Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation/ Awards, etc.
Fuji Xerox Setsutaro Kobayashi Memorial Fund
Foreign Students Research Grant
■Summary: “Setsutaro Kobayashi Memorial Fund” was established in 1977 as a corporate fund in commemoration of the remarkable services of the late Setsutaro Kobayashi, first president, with the purpose of contributing to mutual understanding and goodwill promotion through academic communications between Japan and Asia/Oceania countries and regions. It supports academic researches in humanities and social science fields to fulfill the above purpose.
■Eligibility: Fields to be supported are humanities and social science, limited to individual researches. It emphasizes such researches as to further promote the international communications between Japan and these regions in the future by the researchers by deepening their understanding and awareness of the societies and culture of Japan and Asia/Oceania.
■Application periods: Wednesday, January 4, 2012～Wednesday, February 29, 2012
URL:http://www.fujixerox.com/eng/company/social/next/foundation/index.html
Ichihara International Scholarship Foundation
International Students Subject to Scholarship
■Eligibility: International students enrolled in a specialist department or graduate school of universities in Aichi Prefecture. Those who are good in both academic work and personality and healthy and for whom receiving tuition assistance is considered adequate. However, those who are already on scholarship from other organization cannot be the scholarship students of this foundation. Those who are recommended by the school headmaster.
■Deadline: Friday, February 10, 2012
■URL:http://www.ichihara-isf.or.jp/boshu/shogakukin.html (In Japanese Only)
Okamoto Scholarship Foundation
Scholarship for Privately Funded International Students
■Eligibility: 1) A privately funded international student enrolled in a campus within Chiba Prefecture or residing in Chiba Prefecture and attending a university in Tokyo or adjacent prefecture, 2) a fourth-year student for undergraduate or graduate student, 3) not receiving study grant or higher amount of scholarship grant from other. Multiple benefits with the study grant are not allowed, 4) no application can be made by a married couple, if either husband or wife is receiving Japanese government scholarship, dispatched from his/her native country or institution, or employed within Japan, 5) must be able to attend the monthly regular meeting of this foundation.
■Application period: Thursday, January 5, 2012 ～ Tuesday, January 31, 2012
■URL:http://www.osf-family.com/osfbusiness.htm (In Japanese Only)
Sato Yo International Scholarship Foundation
ASIA International Students Scholarship
■Summary: The scholarship is granted to privately funded international students who now stay in Japan and have been decided to enter (or move on) to the regular course of a university as of April, 2012. The application should be made through the international students’ office of the university.
■Eligibility: Those who have the nationality of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, East Timor or Viet Nam. It is necessary to satisfy the requirements stipulated by this foundation. For the details, check the application requirements described in the following website.
■Application period: Monday, January 23, 2012 ～ Thursday, January 26, 2012
※Please note that application forms and interviews are all in Japanese.
■URL:http://sisf.or.jp/eng/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19&Itemid=36
ITO EN New Haiku Contest Executive Committee
The 23rd ITO EN Oi Ocha New Haiku Contest
■Summary: Contestants may write about any subject they like. The poems do not need to include seasonal references or the other Haiku conventions. Contestants are encouraged to express themselves freely in the 5-7-5 form.
■Eligibility: Submissions are limited to those composed by the person himself or herself and not have been published. (Maximum 6 poems per person)
■URL：http://www.itoen.co.jp/new-haiku/en/rules_regulations/index.html
3) Scholarships/ Grants/ Invitation Information and Reports
Features information about scholarships and the experiences of international students who are actually receiving scholarships. The following scholarship is introduced this month.
Minami Fuji Co., LTD “SUGIYAMA Seeding Scholarship”
http://www.minamifuji.com/contact/scholarship.htm
―Founding philosophy of the scholarship
The “SUGIYAMA Seeding Scholarship” is a scholarship which has been privately funded by the president of Minami Fuji Co., LTD, Mr. Sadahisa Sugiyama, for the past 30 years. We support students around the world who have the desire and the ability, but are not blessed with the financial means. We wish to create an “opportunity” for them to go out into the world and create projects and companies.
―Who can apply?
International students who identify with our “human resource development” philosophy and are interested in Minami Fuji's businesses (construction, Chinese business, etc.). There are no restrictions regarding nationality, country of residence, academic background, academic year, or major. Each year, we accept applications from around the world and grant scholarships to a few persons who meet the following requirements.
(1) International students entering or moving on to colleges in Japan
(2) Students entering or moving on to colleges in their own countries (living in countries other than Japan and entering colleges outside Japan)
(3) In addition to the public offering, we also award 10 scholarships a year through universities in China. The Chinese universities vary from year to year, so please contact us for details.
―What is the amount paid?
The amount is 20,000 yen per month, and it can be received for a period of six months. This period can be renewed further.
―What are the selection criteria?
Persons who possess the following qualities and who are devoting themselves to their studies for the development of society and the nation.
1．A supple mind
2．A flexible mind
3．The power to take on a challenge without fear of failure.
There are many international students who worry about their “language ability” when they are applying; however, Japanese level has little to do with the selection process. What is important is “appeal as a person,” and expressing your own opinion clearly. We use the “mind” of the person, their thoughts about their place in the company and how they will use the scholarship and grow as a person, as can be understood from their writing, as criteria for selection.
―How to apply?
Please apply using the form below. Applications may be made in Japanese or English.
http://my.formman.com/form/pc/IEQomOwIlGKLykm4/
The deadlines for application are the end of April and the end of October each year.
―What sort of projects does the association do other than scholarships?
Our company currently runs a private executive-training school “Global Management College (GMC)” in China, and is fostering a succession of leaders who can make their mark on a global basis. It is our sincere hope that, in a time when there is said to be a global “absence of leaders,” as many “SUGIYAMA Seeding Scholarship students” as possible will grow to become persons useful to society and personnel who can be active in the world. Persons who are interested in our company, apart from the scholarship, or who have questions may feel free to contact us.
■Contact: http://www.minamifuji.com/contact/index.htm (In Japanese Only)
Japanese Language Proficiency Test
Mailing date of the result: Mid-February, 2012
BJT Business Japanese Profociency Test
Mailing date of the result: Around the end of January, 2012
J.TEST (Test of Practical Japanese) (In Japanese Only)
Test Date: Sunday, January 15th, 2012
JSST (In Japanese Only)
Test Date: as needed
Taking the examination in China (In Chinese Only)
Provide information related to job hunting for current international students and graduates!
1) Guidebook for International Students in Preparation for Job Hunting 2013
"Job Hunting Guide for International Students 2013" newly published in December 2011. This "Job Hunting Guide for International Students 2013" is a guidebook full of information essential for international students looking to find work in Japan.
It clearly explains everything you need to know during the job-hunting period, from preparing to start job hunting to entries, recruitment examinations and changing status of residence, as well as job-hunting stories from former international students, etc.
*The guidebook is free, however, postage costs are paid by the requester (c.o.d.)
*Please see the website to download or request a copy to be sent to you.
http://www.jasso.go.jp/job/guide.html （In Japanese Only）
2) Job Hunting-Related Event Information
*Tokyo Employment Service Center for Foreigners
●Job paper seminar for international students (Friday, January 20, 2012) (PDF: 150KB) (In Japanese Only)
●Job-hunting guidance for international students (Thursday, January 12, 2012 / Friday, January 27, 2012) (In Japanese Only)
●Job interview seminar for international students (Tuesday, January 24, 2012) (PDF: 102KB) (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)
*Osaka Employment Service Center for Foreigners
●Internship for international students (In Japanese Only)
*Fukuoka Gakusei Shokugyo Center (In Japanese Only)
●Job-search seminar for International Students (Tuesday, January 31, 2012) (PDF:280KB) (In Japanese Only)
<For International students>
TOP CAREER 2013 (Saturday, January 14, 2012) (Foursh Valley Concierge Corp.) (Tokyo: Tokyo Dome City Prism Hall) (In Japanese Only)
TOP CAREER 2013 (Sunday, January 15, 2012) (Fourth Valley Concierge Corp.) (Osaka: Umeda Crystal Hall) (In Japanese Only)
Works Japan Job Fair 2012 for Bilingual Students JOB FAIR (Sunday, February 5, 2012) (WorksJapan) (Tokyo: Akihabara UDX Gallery 4F) (In Japanese Only)
Works Japan Job Fair2012 For Bilingual Students JOB FAIR (Sunday, February 19, 2012) (Works Japan) (Kyoto: Kyoto Industry Hall 3F) (In Japanese Only)
<For both International and Japanese students>
Joint company information session (Saturday, January 14, 2012) (Niigata Shushoku Ouendan) (Tokyo: Tokyo Industrial Trade Center) (In Japanese Only)
Joint company Information session for new graduates (Thursday, January 26, 2012) (Tokyo: Tokyo Shigoto Center) (In Japanese Only)
Joint Job Information Session Hamamatsu (Monday, February 6, 2012) (Shushoku Joho Center Co., Ltd.) (Hamamatsu Act City Exhibition and Event 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)
●WORKS JAPAN.GLOBAL (WORKS JAPAN) (In Japanese Only)
<"Job Fair and Seminar" Site list>
Shukatsu Lab 2013 (ACCESS HUMANEXT CO., LTD.) (In Japanese Only)
"Gou-setsu.com" 2013 (Chikanari. Co.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Gakujo Navi 2013 (Gakujo Co., Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Shukatsu Navi 2013 (Diamond-big and lead Co.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
Career Forum 2013 (DISCO International, Inc.) (In Japanese Only)
Bunnavi! Job Seminar 2013 (BUNKAHOSO Career PartnersCo.,Ltd.) (In Japanese Only)
MAINAVI Job Seminar 2013 (Mynavi Corporation) (In Japanese Only)
JOBWAY 2013 (The National Conference of the Association of Small Business Entrepreneurs) (In Japanese Only)
3) Job Hunting Reports from Former International Students
Name: Mr. Shi Guan Hua
Nationality: China
University in Japan: Syukutoku University
Major Field of Study: MBA
Period of Stay in Japan: October, 2003 to April, 2007
Name of Company: RAKUSHOJAPAN CO,.LTD
The level of Japanese-Language: JLPT Lv. 1
- What was the reason why you wanted to work in Japan?
One of the reasons is that the salaries are higher than the average salary in China, but it was Japanese corporate culture and management style which appealed to me and made me want to seek employment in Japan.
- What was the reason why you chose the company you are now working for ?
The main reasons were the easy-to-work-in environment and the fact that there were opportunities to acquire knowledge in a variety of fields.
- Please describe the business of your company and your job.
My present company operates a portal site which introduces study abroad and sightseeing opportunities in Japan and China. In addition, we provide marketing support for Japanese companies entering the Chinese market. I belong to the Planning and Sales Department, and I am engaged in work ranging from translation and drafting proposals to solution sales for schools and companies.
- What and how did you appeal to the employer?
Apart from my past personal history, I included episodes such as how grew as a person during my life as a student and what I learnt through working part time in Japan, etc., and appealed myself in an interesting way. After reading books about interviews, I imitated what I had read and achieved good results.
- When did you start your job hunting activities?
I started from my second year in graduate school.
- How many companies did you apply to?
I applied to about 60 companies. I had around 15 interviews and received provisional offers from 2 companies.
- What kind of job-hunting activity did you do exactly? (Seminars and websites you used)
I used mainly Rikunabi and Mynavi to search for apply to companies I was interested in. They were very convenient. Going to job-hunting seminars costs money and is time consuming, so I only attended them occasionally.
- What did you refer to for your advance preparation and company research?
I read job hunting-related books and listened to stories from my seniors. Consultations with my school's careers counselor were also useful.
- What did you find difficult in your advance preparation and company research?
I would have to say it was the amount of technical jargon that came up that I had never learnt at school. I would write them down and ask my teachers or seniors each time. There were times when I still could not understand even after asking for an explanation, and I would spend time worrying about them alone.
- What were you careful about in making your job entry sheet or curriculum vitae (CV)?
First of all, I think it is a good idea to check out samples on the internet or in books before you start writing. Next, you should write using the words and expressions you usually use as much as possible. The reason for this is, when it comes to the interview, you will be able to speak in a similar way and you will make fewer mistakes with your Japanese.
- What did you pay attention to in preparation for your job interview?
From my experience, the three main points are “confidence”, “a smile”, and “advance preparation.” When it comes to speaking Japanese, you can't compete with a Japanese person, but if you go in without feeling embarrassed and speak to the interviewer confidently using the lines you have rehearsed, you are sure to be fine.
- What were you asked in job interviews?
You are sure to be asked “why do you want to join this company?” and “What would you like to do at this company?” I think that it is a good idea to research the characteristics of the company's business and the course of its history and prepare answers in advance which combine this information with your strengths. - What were experiences that you found confusing, problems you faced, or impressive episodes in your job searching activities?
I panicked when I just couldn't seem to find the company where I was due to have an interview. Even though I phoned the company and they told me the address, it still took me a while to find it. Unlike China, addresses in Japan are divided up by lot numbers, and this took a lot of getting used to. In 2007, when I was looking for employment, navigation systems for mobile phones where not yet commonplace so I had quite a tough time.
- What did you find good things about working in Japan?
Firstly, I like the atmosphere in which everyone work well together. I also think that being able to gain knowledge and skills that I would not be able to acquire in China is extremely valuable.
- Please let us know your hopes, objectives and plans for the future.
In future I hope to increase the size of my department and eventually rise to become department head.
- Please give a message to those who are thinking about finding a job in Japan.
It is essential that you set yourself goals. For example, “I will apply to 20 companies in a week” or “I will attend at least three interviews in a week” etc. And it is also important to practice interviews as much as you can. If you do your best, you will surely see results!
This month, Kazuyo Nozawa of the Global Human Resource Promotion Office at Randstad Japan (a company that offers comprehensive human resources services) answers a question regarding job hunting activities in Japan after studying abroad and graduating from a university in your home country.
Question
My one-year period of study abroad as an international student studying Japanese and Japanese culture has ended. I will return to my home country and graduate from my university there. Afterwards, I would like to come back to Japan and hunt for a job. How should I carry out job hunting activities in this case?
Answer
To speak plainly, it will be extremely difficult to come back to Japan and take part in job hunting activities after returning to and graduating from a university in your home country.
The main reason is because examinations for new employees at Japanese corporations are often held during a determined period.
For example, the normal process is for undergraduate students in a four-year university to begin job hunting activities in the autumn of their third year, take employment examinations from February to April of the following year, receive official offers between May and July, graduate in March of the following year, and enter their company in April. The truth is that if you return to your home country, you will miss the period for job hunting activities and it will be difficult for you to find employment at a Japanese corporation. You can come back to Japan after graduation and participate in job hunting activities, but you will have to enter the country under a short-term resident visa so the amount of time you can stay in Japan will be limited. As I mentioned before, job hunting activities in Japan take place over a long span of time, so this isn’t very realistic. Therefore, it will be problematic for new graduates to find jobs according to regular job hunting activity methods.
Considering this, next I will discuss how to find a job in Japan.
Participate in Japanese job hunting fairs in your native country
Recently, Japanese human resource companies are holding Japanese job hunting fairs in overseas countries. In these fairs, Japanese corporations go to other countries and give explanations and hold interviews in order to employ talented foreign students. Some corporations even give official offers of employment at these fairs.
Register with Japanese job hunting information websites and human resource companies
Many global human resource promotion offices, including at my company Randstad Japan, are engaged in the introduction of human resources especially for foreign nationals. At other companies as well there are increasing numbers of Japanese job hunting information websites containing employment information for foreign nationals, as well as human resource companies. Of course it is easier for foreign nationals residing in Japan to participate in interviews so they have advantage on that point, but companies want to employ talented human resources even from overseas. For this reason, you should start by registering with different companies, looking for jobs that are a good match for you, and proactively applying.
Make use of personal connections
Many small- to mid-sized corporations use their personal connections to employ people. It’s a good idea to consult with other people including working adults and teachers you met in Japan.
Become employed at a Japanese corporation in your native country
It’s difficult to find a job in Japan while in your home country, so one option is becoming employed at a Japanese corporation in your native country. Many Japanese corporations are hoping to employ people who have studied abroad in Japan, understand Japanese business customs, and have advanced Japanese language skills. First you should find a job at a Japanese corporation or corporation that is engaged in business with Japan, where you can gain experience as a working adult. If you do a good job, it wouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility for you to transfer to the head office in Japan.
Regardless of what method you use, it’s important to have exemplary skills compared to other people (such as language abilities, specializations, or human qualities), be able to express these things, not give up, and have firm goals. It won’t be easy to become employed at a Japanese corporation for weak reasons such as just wanting to go to or liking Japan. And even if you have such objectives, Japanese corporations won’t be attracted to you if you have insufficient Japanese language or specialized abilities. Job hunting is a major turning point that has great influences on person’s life – it’s important to make efforts in the realm of job hunting while fully mastering skills and having an awareness of your goals.
[Respondent: Kazuyo Nozawa, Global Human Resource Promotion Office, Randstad Japan]
5) Convenient Job Hunting Information
Useful information that will surely be of help to you during your job hunting activities!
Convenient honorific speech expressions for job hunting #2
As a continuation of last month, the January edition of Convenient Job Hunting Information will feature information about convenient expressions in keigo (honorific speech) to use during job hunting activities. This month focuses on keigo expressions that are often used while talking on the telephone.
Perhaps many people think that using keigo on the telephone is impossible since the idea of speaking in keigo is stressful enough by itself! Certainly the content of a telephone call is different each time, but the keigo expressions used at the beginning and end of the call are mostly the same. For that reason, it’s a good idea to fully memorize only the phrases that are used when making a call and when hanging up the phone.
■Keigo expressions used when making a telephone call
・“I apologize for bothering you when you are busy”: Oisogashii tokoro osore irimasu / Oisogashii tokoro shitsurei itashimasu. (お忙しいところ恐れ入ります。/ お忙しいところ失礼いたします。)
There are many different circumstances when making telephone calls, such as telephoning the company’s main number or directly calling the personnel department. The employees at the company are all very busy, so you will make a good impression if you start with the phrase “I apologize for…”
・“My name is Hanako Yamada. I’m a year student in the Department of University.”: Watakushi daigaku gakubu nen no Yamada Hanako to mōshimasu. (私（わたくし） 大学 学部 年の山田花子と申します。)
When saying your own name, you should definitely use “to mōshimasu” instead of “Yamada Hanako desu” (山田花子です) or “Yamada Hanako to iimasu ga” (山田花子と言いますが).
・“Is of the Personnel Department’s Division (in charge of employment) available?”: Jinjibu ka (saiyō gotantō no) sama wa irasshaimasu ka. (人事部 課（採用ご担当の） 様はいらっしゃいますか。)
When asking for a staff member in charge of employment, you should use keigo by saying “-sama wa irasshaimasu ka” instead of “-san wa imasu ka” (～さんはいますか). There are also cases when people use other phrases like “-sama wa irasshaimasu deshō ka” (～様はいらっしゃいますでしょうか).
・“Today I’m calling about XX.”: Honjitsu wa, no ken de odenwa sasete itadakimashita. (本日（ほんじつ）は、 の件でお電話させていただきました。)
When your call has been transferred to the staff member in charge of employment, you should say your information (like your name and university) once again. After that, you should explain why you are calling. Make sure to change the phrases you are saying to the appropriate type, such as using “honjitsu” instead of “kyō wa” (今日は) and “odenwa sasete itadakimashita” instead of “denwa shimashita” (電話しました).
・ “May I have a moment of your time?”: Ima, shōshō ojikan yoroshii deshō ka. / Ima ojikan wo itadaitemo yoroshii deshō ka. (今、少々お時間よろしいでしょうか。/ 今お時間をいただいてもよろしいでしょうか。)
People working at corporations are very busy, so it’s a good idea to ask if this is a convenient time for them. If they are busy, such as times when they are just about to leave the office or have a meeting, you should say that you will call back later (“Sore de wa, mata nochi hodo odenwa sasete itadakimasu” [それでは、また後ほどお電話させていただきます]) and call back at another time.
■Keigo expressions used when hanging up the telephone
・Thank you for taking my call despite your busy schedule. Goodbye.”: Honjitsu wa oisogashii tokoro arigatō gozaimashita. Sore de wa shitsurei itashimasu. (本日はお忙しいところありがとうございました。それでは失礼いたします。)
Before hanging up, you should thank the other party once again for taking your call despite the fact that they are very busy. Once again, don’t forget to say “honjitsu” instead of “kyō.” In addition, you should use “sore de wa” instead of “sore jaa” (それじゃあ).
What do you think?Keigo seems a bit difficult at first but will surely be useful to you, so please try practicing it before your job hunting activities.
Text: Yuko Kamabuchi (YUMA Teaching Japanese Firm)
Why not try traveling throughout Japan? Famous places, events, and cuisine information from around Japan!
The January issue of Visit Japan introduces Niigata Prefecture.
Winter Sports
There are many ski slopes in Niigata. They are bustling on the weekends with visitors, coming in from the Tokyo area by highway express bus and shinkansen (bullet train). You can rent ski equipment, so you do not need to carry around skis, snowboards or other large luggage in order to have fun, and they are usually open until about April each year. How about adding it to your spring holiday plans?
Hot Springs
Niigata has the third largest number of hot springs in Japan. As it snows a lot in winter in Niigata, the hot springs have been popular among the locals since olden times. Famous hot springs, such as Yuzawa onsen and Akakura onsen, are located near the ski slopes, so can enjoy winter sports in the daytime and a hot spring in the evening. Part of Niigata's appeal is that there is a large number of “day-trip” hot springs, which you can enter without having to spend the night.
Koshihikari
Niigata is one of Japan's leading rice-producing regions. And Niigata's most famous rice variety is Koshihikari. Koshihikari is characterized by its sweetness and glutinous nature, and it is one of the most popular brands of rice in Japan. It is also popular overseas, so no doubt some of you may have eaten it before at a Japanese restaurant. Furthermore, through selective breeding, it is now being produced even in America and China. If you go to Niigata, enjoy the taste of Koshihikari along with some simple side dishes!
Sado Island’s Tarai Bune
Sado Island’s Tarai Bune is a “tub-shaped” boat, inspired by a laundry tub, from the Edo period to the beginning of the Meiji era. Because it can turn in a small radius and can be freely steered, it is used even today along Sado Island’s Ogi coast. Though it has a simple shape, it is very stable and there also are sightseeing Tarai Bune available. A female ferryperson will row it for you, so even first-timers can relax and enjoy themselves.
Italian
When it comes to Niigata’s local gourmet dish, it has to be “Italian.” It is called Italian, but it is not spaghetti. It is thick yakisoba eaten covered with tomato sauce. It is the taste of the common people, and you can give it a try at local fast food restaurants. By covering it with white sauce, curry sauce or mapo doufu, you can give it a different taste. What will you eat it with?
Niigata Prefecture Official Tourism Site Niigata Tourism Navi
Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO) Niigata Prefecture page
This section features enjoyable stories about pop culture, traditions, dining, cutting-edge technology, and more!
Lucky bags at the start of the New Year
On the 1st of January, people are celebrating the start of the New Year with friends and family. “What sort of year will it be?” “I hope this year will be a good one.” Chatting about our hopes and dreams for the future and wishing for happiness; New Year’s Day really cheers people up.
On the 2nd, the day after a New Year’s Day spent relaxing with family, the town is already springing into action. Various retailers and department stores are already starting their “Hatsuuri” – their first business of the year. The shops are adorned with New Year’s decorations, have New Year’s music playing in the background, and hold a wide variety of events. And lined up inside are rows of red bags of various sizes. They are “Fukubukuro” or “lucky bags.” But what on earth are these bags, which are so popular you could say that “New Year’s means lucky bags!”
There are seven gods which have been popular in Japan since ancient times: the “Shichi Fukujin” or “seven lucky gods.” One of them, Daikokuten, is the god of wealth and food. Daikokuten is also a god of agriculture, and the bag he carries over his shoulder, like Santa Claus, is a “Fukubukuro.” Inside the bag is agricultural produce that brings happiness and wealth to the people.
This bag, stuffed full of blessings for everyone, has in modern times turned into bags, filled with bargains, lined up in stores as part of their Hatsuuri, which bring people their first feeling of good fortune for the year.
There are all kinds of fukubukuro – ranging in price from one-thousand yen to expensive ones costing tens of thousands of yen. There is a wide variety of lucky bags, and, depending on the store, they can contain clothing, sundries, daily commodities, toys, food items, drinks or jewels, etc. But part of the fun is not knowing what is inside until you open it. You may discover something you never dreamt of, come across something you had wanted but were not able to buy, or be impressed by something you never even knew existed. Occasionally you may end up with something a little disappointing, but most of the time the bags will be filled with attractive items worth more than the price you paid, giving you the sense of having got a bargain.
You will be surprised to find that, recently, event and holiday tickets, and other items that will not fit in a bag, are being marked as “lucky bags.” The number of lucky bags where you can know what is inside, or even choose the contents, has increased, but really, the lucky bags you buy at the beginning of the year should not be about the feeling of satisfaction you get from buying what you wanted, but rather the playful anticipation towards an unknown item.
Excitedly opening the bag, full of expectations is a joyful event, much like opening a present. The fun of pulling out various things, one after the other, can also be a topic of conversation with family and friends and will surely heighten the happy New Year's mood. Don't you get the feeling that inside these bright-red bags is a little bit of happiness which foretells of wonderful year to come?
Text: Sonomi Shoji (writer)
Introducing JASSO Scholarship information, invitation program, Japan Education Fairs, the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students（EJU）
1) Follow-up Research Fellowship (invitation program)
This program provides former international students who play active roles in education, research and government in their home countries to conduct short term research at universities in Japan.
■Application Guidelines for the Fiscal 2012
Applications are now being accepted!
Note) All application shall be accepted through the host university.
2) Follow-up Research Guidance (dispatch program)
This program provides Japanese academic advisors a chance to visit and to help further research of former international students who are in teaching and/or research at universities or research institutes in their home countries.
■Application Guidelines for the Fiscal 2012
Applications are now being accepted!
Note) All application shall be accepted through the host university.
3) Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU)
Change of Mailing Date for Examination Voucher (For reissue) and EJU Certificates of Scores
Number of 2011 EJU Examinees (2nd Session)
4) Notice from Osaka Japanese Language Education Center
Osaka Japanese Language Education Center April Course, 2012 (One year) University and Graduate School Preparatory Course (applications from residents in Japan)
Application period: December 26 (Monday), 2011 to March 8 (Thursday), 2012
5) [Report] A report from JASSO's South Korean office
■Event name: Study in Japan Information Session, Sponsored by Kobe University
■Date: November 25, 2011 (Fri.) 11:00 - 15:00
■Venue: Hanyang University Seoul Campus Fusion Technology Center (FTC) Faculty Cafe
■Details:
Kobe University held the "Kobe University Global Link Forum in Seoul", at Hanyang University's Seoul Campus, from the 25th to the 26th. As part of the event, a study in Japan information session was held, and Kobe University, JASSO's South Korean office, Hokkaido University's Seoul office, Tokai University's Seoul Center, and Public Information and Cultural Center, Embassy of Japan in Korea all participated, providing personal consultations. At the JASSO booth, we provided consultations on university entrance exams, the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students, scholarships, living in Japan and the employment situation in Japan for international students, etc.
■Event name: Study in Japan Information Session sponsored by the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan
■Date: November 25, 2011 (Fri.) 14:00 - 17:00
■Venue: Yeungnam University Humanities building Auditorium
■Details: We took part in the regional study in Japan information session jointly sponsored by the Consulate-General of Japan at Busan and Japanese Language and Literature Department at Yeungnam University. The Consulate-General of Japan at Busan, JASSO's South Korean office and the Korea-Japan Interaction Center at Busan all took part, and conducted individual consultations on Japanese Government scholarship program, study in Japan at one’s own expense, the Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students (EJU), visas (including working holidays), the JET program and studying in Japan in general.
6) Follow-up Research Guidance (Reports for FY 2010)
We will introduce activities of our research advisors who have been selected in this program, their impression and memories for former international students.
- Toyama University
- Toyohashi University of Technology
Impressions from our readers!
I got the Jasso Alumni eNews this month, too. It is easy to understand because it is written both in Japanese and in English. I am writing the thesis of my research theme which I have to complete in 3 years in Tribhuvan University.
Arun Shrestha (Nepal)
Thank you very much for your supporting students including me always.
Qiu Jie (China)
(Dispense with the Mr. and Mrs.)
[From the Editor]
Happy New Year! What did you do over the New Year holidays? In Japan people have a soup called ozoni on New Year’s. People in western Japan add round mochi (glutinous rice cakes) to their ozoni, while people in eastern Japan use square-shaped mochi. This soup is flavored with miso in the Kansai and Shikoku regions, and mainly with soy sauce in other areas. There are many different types of ozoni, which might also contain azuki beans or mochi with sweet bean paste depending on the area. It’s interesting that you can tell where a person is from by what type of ozoni they eat. In addition to beautiful scenery, one of the attractions of travel is being able to experience unique regional foods and decorations. When you travel throughout Japan, please make sure to refer to the “Visit Japan” section in this e-mail newsletter.
The February issue of “Japan Alumni eNews” will be sent on February 10. 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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