Kirara Nakayama （Intersectionality / Diana KHOR）
The Intersectionality Seminar explores various forms of inequality and social issues in contemporary society through the lens of intersectionality, a concept developed by Kimberlé Crenshaw. Intersectionality is the idea that multiple social attributes, such as gender, class and race overlap, creating complex oppression and the exclusion of certain people in society. My research focuses on the experiences of foreign female technical intern trainees in Japan. Other members in the Seminar are exploring broad research topics such as Representation in Disney films, Issues surrounding people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (LGBTQ+) and gender roles. In the seminar, students present readings related to their research every week then the class engages in discussions based on these readings. We also analyze current news and affairs from theoretical perspectives. These activities help us gain broader understanding and consider different points of view that we might not have acquired by ourselves. The atmosphere of the Seminar is very calm and respectful. The Seminar feels like a safe space where members value each other’s background and opinions. Rather than trying to find the correct answer, we focus on deepening discussions based on each person’s experiences and viewpoints. Since joining this seminar, I have become more interested in society. It has made me think more critically about the news, social media and current affairs than I did before. The Seminar is not just a place to gain knowledge, but a valuable learning opportunity to re-examine my own values, opinions and ideas. In today’s world, where information intersects in complex ways, this seminar has helped me develop critical thinking skills and has strengthened my desire to broaden my perspective and to continue learning. I truly feel that participating in this seminar has been a meaningful and rewarding experience.
Takaho Takemura（Literature in Theory and Practice / Gregory KHEZRNEJAT）
Our seminar is unique as it blends theoretical studies with practical writing exercises, allowing us to explore both domains thoroughly. Last year, we engaged in four main activities. Firstly, we delved into various critical theories relevant to literature and cultural studies, such as New Criticism, Structuralism, Deconstruction, Feminism, and others. These theories help us to grasp the literary landscape, interpret individual works, and understand the evolution of literature. Secondly, we analyzed Japanese short stories on a weekly basis. This activity was more exciting than I thought; it revealed how diverse our interpretations and perspectives could be, significantly broadening our textual insights.
Following each story discussion, we applied the literary techniques we identified to our own writing in the workshop (third activity) and then exchanged feedback with each other. The highlight of our seminar was crafting our own short stories (fourth activity). This process involved writing, revising bit by bit, and receiving feedback from both peers and our professor.
One of the most exciting aspects of this seminar is our professor, an author who is actively publishing fiction. It is really inspiring to hear professional thoughts about writing and the Japanese literary scene.
Of all the seminars in GIS, I think ours is the most creative and practical. Studying literature might seem theoretical and abstract, but the skills we develop—like creating stories from scratch and critically reading from multiple perspectives—are universally applicable and valuable soft skills.
Nami Kawajiri（Tourism Management / John MELVIN）
In the seminar, we deal with various case studies to learn how each destination manages tourism, what strategies are used, and what kind of problems they face from the perspective of sustainability. Each week, there is an opportunity to exchange ideas with other students and have discussions based on questions that help us to deepen our understanding of tourism-related issues.
Each seminar member has a different point of view and different interests, which gives everyone new perspectives and a deeper understanding of tourism management. My view on tourism has changed since joining the seminar, and I have gained a more multifaceted viewpoint by delving into not only the benefits but also the negative impacts of tourism and the sustainability of tourism. Learning about issues such as over-tourism and environmental destruction caused by an increased number of tourists has changed my travel behavior to be more considerate of tourist destinations. Furthermore, tourism is interconnected with other fields of study, so I think it is also one of the valuable aspects of this seminar to be able to research how tourism relates to other fields through research projects.
For example, I am interested in Korean pop culture, therefore I am planning to investigate how Korean pop culture influences tourism and the possibilities for utilizing fan tourism for local revitalization.
Besides the content that we cover in the seminar, I really like the atmosphere of this seminar where everyone is kind and supportive.
I believe that the knowledge of business management and marketing that I gained in this seminar will be useful in my future career in tourism as well as other fields.
Rikako Asami（Language Teaching and Learning / Machiko KOBORI）
Our seminar, Language Teaching and Learning, explores second language (L2) education within the global context. Our focus is on both theoretical and practical aspects of related fields, such as global educational issues to support L2 learners and teachers with different ethnic backgrounds, L2 pedagogy, curriculum development, etc. We examine how these issues impact the learning of L2 learners and diverse learning environments, and how addressing them can improve L2 teacher education. It is fascinating to explore L2 education worldwide.
We learn about second language learning (SLL), such as L2 motivation, through reading materials and sharing our knowledge through presentations in class. Also, we put theoretical aspects of SLL into practice by teaching English to primary and secondary pupils in Japan and overseas. For instance, we hold an online English school as well as in public spaces like libraries. Dealing with young learners is very enjoyable, and helping them with their L2 learning is also rewarding.
These experiences allow us to broaden our perspectives on L2 education, and anyone interested in getting involved in related fields of language education would benefit from attending this seminar.
Nihina Khomiddinova（Entrepreneurship and Innovation / Shiaw Jia EYO）
In our Entrepreneurship and Innovation Seminar, we study real-life case studies of top companies like Netflix, Toyota, Apple, and Amazon. We explore how these business giants rose and reinvented themselves across various sectors such as in the Information Technology (IT), automotive and finance industries.
The course is highly interactive, guiding us to step into the shoes of these companies and individual innovators to analyze their most significant successes and failures. We also undertake the process of brainstorming what we would have done differently had we been faced with these similar business challenges and opportunities.
Another key point of our seminar is innovation. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other new technologies, companies are not only trying to introduce innovative practices and products into their businesses but are also looking for young leaders who are creative and forward-thinking. During every lesson, we work on developing this innovative mindset. We strive to learn to think like entrepreneurs who can drive real change so that our companies can be competitive not only in the Japanese market but also globally.
What really sets this seminar apart is that we get to learn directly from the best. We have the opportunity to meet with and listen to guest speakers. We also visit top companies like Google and Salesforce. Getting a behind-the-scenes look at how these companies operate and innovate makes me feel like a real entrepreneur for three hours every week.
I’m really happy with my choice of Seminar! I am confident that the skills and experiences I'm gaining through this course, here in GIS, will help me become a strong business leader.
Calongi Sobejana Ashley Veronica（Media Across Borders / Stevie SUAN）
The Media Across Borders Seminar is where media studies truly crosses every border, whether it be transnational, cultural, and personal. It takes us beyond the walls of the classroom to explore how media shapes the world and our place in it. Each week is a mix of academic media theories combined with small-group discussions, collaborative presentations, and field trips that bring our studies to life. Seminar members have the freedom to shape their own presentations and term papers based on what they are most passionate about, such as fashion trends, music, gaming, or global issues. This flexibility in choice is part of what makes the MAB seminar unique, because media now touches every aspect of our lives.
One of the most exciting, and sometimes the most challenging aspects of the seminar is learning to bridge theory and real life. We work through complex readings, sharpen our ability to recognize what we understand (and what we do not), and practice sharing our ideas clearly with others. In the age of rapid technological changes and AI-driven media, we also tackle the big questions about authenticity, identity, and how algorithms shape us. Throughout the process, we follow one guiding principle: before you can like, dislike, or critique something, you have to understand it first.
The MAB seminar will teach you skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and turning ideas into words. By the end, you will walk away with useful skills and wonderful memories with Professor Suan and all of the lovely seminar members that you will cherish and serve you well far beyond university, wherever life takes you next.
Ryan John Humphreys（Global Strategic Management / Takamasa FUKUOKA）
Our seminar engages students in actively learning business management theories and provides an opportunity for their practical use. The syllabus for the entire year consists of two primary stages: the spring semester and the fall semester. During the spring semester, we study and discuss the theory of corporate culture, marketing and promotion, and examine various business models. During the fall semester, students participate in marketing trials and in business competitions towards the aim of testing our knowledge and ability in the real business world.
One unique aspect of this seminar is its student-centric approach. Every week, we present, question, and discuss various business theories and real-life case studies. Under the guidance of Professor Fukuoka, we take the initiative in deepening our knowledge, as we strive to develop our leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.
What I find fascinating about business management is its vast potential to combine almost every discipline. For example, a restructuring of an internal evaluation of a company would require an understanding of employee psychology, new technology, cultural diversity, amongst other important issues. Members of the seminar come from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. This diversity builds a foundation of fresh perspectives that help to spark interesting discussions.
We value the idea of “work hard, play hard”. Members enjoy time together both in and out of the seminar. What students gain in the seminar is more than just knowledge., The seminar is a valuable experience that students come to treasure. We look forward to seeing you all in the seminar try-outs in the coming year.
Reina Minami（International Relations / Takeshi YUZAWA）
The seminar on IR allows me to see the landscape of international relations from various perspectives. For example, we explore not only superpowers' dynamics and conflicts but also development, digital technology, and energy transition. So, I touch on and analyze the issues surrounding international relations, then, I realize how the world is mutually and complexly interdependent.
Moreover, the seminar activities, including discussions, essays, and research projects, can strengthen our “critical thinking,” another keyword of this seminar. We focus on thinking of topics with logic and evidence-based ideas so that we can convince others of our perspectives. It is hard to spend time reading and understanding different topics and being prepared to defend our ideas.
However, at the same time, discussions with seminar members offer me a broader interpretation of international relations. Also, the open-minded atmosphere of the seminar enables us all to interact with each other, in this sense I don’t just mean seminar activities but also personal matters. Therefore, this seminar encourages me to develop my prospects in terms of international relations and my critical thinking abilities. This seminar has given me the opportunity to develop as a person, and I am glad that I can feel that I have developed as a university student.
Tianyou Liang（Self and Culture / Yu NIIYA）
In “Self and Culture,” we aim to gain a more objective view of ourselves and others and find ways to improve our lives. Half of the class is devoted to discussions and half to conducting our own research. Last semester, our discussions focused on social media and its impact on social connections. We explored both the positive aspects, like social capital and a sense of belonging, and the negatives, such as social media addiction. Each week, we read three academic articles, bring our questions and ideas to seminars, and fully use our time in class for deep discussions.
This seminar offers a comfortable forum where we can share personal experiences and gain new insights from both papers and the experiences of other students. We can freely express our opinions without fear of being judged. There are no right or wrong answers; we respect each other’s opinions and appreciate various perspectives. I believe everyone can relate their experiences to the topics discussed in this seminar, as psychology applies to our daily lives. Inspired by one of our discussions, I chose to investigate the relationship between help-seeking behavior and subjective well-being for my research. I am now conducting experiments to test whether help-seeking behavior enhances individuals’ relatedness and autonomy, therefore boosting their happiness. Through research, we learn to analyze social problems, propose solutions, and scientifically test assumptions. We also develop critical thinking and communication skills by explaining our findings to others, all of which are valuable for addressing future social issues.
Hitomi Onozeki（Diversity of English / Yutai WATANABE）
Among the good points of this seminar is its wide range of topics and flexibility in methodology which allow passionate students to deeply dig into their own interests under the guidance and support of the professor. I can recommend this seminar as really matching students who enjoyed the 200-level courses ‘English as a Lingua Franca’ and ‘Sociolinguistics’.
English is one of my favourite languages and was the first foreign language I learned. I like how it sounds and the benefits it gives as an international language, among other things, which I think is due to me studying at a secondary school in the UK for 6 months. I must have picked up a bit of a British accent during my stay, because since then my speech has often been commented on as sounding British when I talk with English-speaking people. This experience has resulted in my interest in the wide variety of accents of English that exist worldwide.
I was also intrigued by ‘Singlish,’ which is spoken in Singapore. When I visited, I was surprised by how it differs from the ‘standard English’ that I was familiar with. For my seminar thesis, I am thinking of a topic related to the connection and integration of English accents around the world with reference to the history of the movement of people.