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.
Anastasiia Holonko（Literature in Theory and Practice / Gregory KHEZRNEJAT）
Our seminar considers literature from two vastly different perspectives. On the one hand, we approach literature from a theoretical angle, considering how some of the major schools of critical thought—New Criticism, Structuralism, Deconstruction, Marxism, etc.—have shaped how we read literary texts. On the other hand, we also examine how contemporary fiction writers understand the process of fiction writing, thus developing a deep understanding of the nuts and bolts of fiction composition. We then apply these various reading techniques to individual stories. In attempting to apply the insights of both literary theorists and fiction writers, we better develop our own perspective on literature.
While the first semester concentrates on understanding and analyzing diverse theoretical perspectives, the second semester puts them into practice through fiction workshops. Each week, we present or provide feedback on short stories of our own creation; stories which we will compile into a book for our final project. Our seminar is a great experience for not just aspiring writers, but also for students who want to work in media-related industries.
One of the most exciting aspects of our seminar is our professor, who is both a researcher in Japanese literature and an award-winning writer of fiction in Japanese. His feedback thus comes from firsthand knowledge of the difficulties and joy of publishing fiction.
By attending our seminar, you will not simply "read" the book you will also see its soul by analysing the text, developing active listening skills, and building your own viewpoint through deep discussions. It is a safe space where you can share your thoughts and gain experience as a writer, beta reader, editor, researcher or even a critic. In addition, if you pursue a career in translation or journalism, you will gain relevant experience while also having a great time!
Mei Kameyama（Tourism Management / John MELVIN）
The Tourism Management Seminar looks at how tourist destinations manage and develop tourism. With a focus on sustainability, this seminar allows us to consider the strategies and challenges of tourist destinations from a broad perspective, particularly the impact on various stakeholders, including local people, the environment, businesses, and employees.
Each week, we discuss tourism-related issues in destinations and their solutions based on case studies. Most of the time in the seminar is used for discussions and we also give presentations. We create small groups with people we have not interacted much with, creating an environment where we can gain new perspectives and it feels fresh every week.
I am still in the process of finding my research topic, however I am interested in hotel operations, the backstage of hospitality, and marine tourism, which is connected to my hobby of fun diving. Tourism studies is related to many other fields of study, making it easy to connect your own interests to research.
I am now a junior student and have just begun my role as seminar leader, but I want to make this seminar a valuable opportunity for my own growth. While the long hours of the seminar require concentration, one of the things I like is that we can deepen our relationships with each other, including through breaks and seminar dinners. I believe that the experiences I gain in this seminar will become a valuable foundation for my future career.
Jinichiro Yano（Language Teaching and Learning / Machiko KOBORI）
Our seminar, Language Teaching and Learning, explores second language (L2) education from both global and Japanese perspectives. We study theoretical and practical issues in language education, including L2 motivation, L2 pedagogy and technology-enhanced learning, digital learning environments, and support for learners from diverse linguistic, cultural, and social backgrounds. In recent years, the seminar has also developed research and educational activities connected to wider social and educational issues, such as educational disparities among young learners, online and hybrid language learning, and learning through sports education. These activities are conducted in collaboration with educational institutions, related organisations, and companies in Japan and overseas. In class, we read academic materials, share our ideas through presentations, and discuss how L2 learning occurs across different educational contexts. Through these activities, we deepen our understanding of how L2 education is influenced by learners’ needs, teaching and learning environments, and broader social issues. One of the most valuable features of this seminar is that we can connect theory with practice. For example, we have opportunities to support young and adolescent learners in Japan and overseas, particularly through online English school activities, cross-national learning projects, and English learning support in public or community spaces. Some activities also explore CLIL-based approaches, such as integrating English learning with sports activities, including football. These activities help us consider how technology can expand learning opportunities, improve learning conditions, and support more inclusive language education. Engaging with real educational settings can be challenging, but it is also enjoyable and rewarding. The related experiences also help us think carefully about the design of effective learning platforms. Through these academic and practical experiences, this seminar broadens our perspectives on L2 education. I would recommend this seminar to students interested in the related theories of language acquisition, technology-enhanced learning, international education, educational practice, and supporting L2 learners both in Japan and around the world.
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.
Haruna Takaya（Media Across Borders / Stevie SUAN）
Our Media Across Borders (MAB) Seminar explores how media shapes our perceptions of the world and influences the content we encounter in daily life. In an era where media affects a lot of aspects of our society, this seminar gives us a necessary perspective to examine our digital and physical surroundings with both a critical and careful eye.
Each week we bridge theory and real experiences by engaging academic text and participating in lively discussions. While some readings are challenging, they also offer fresh and rewarding perspectives. These classroom insights are supported by group presentations and field trips to museums and exhibitions, allowing us to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. Through this process, we strengthen essential skills in critical analysis, teamwork, and academic writing.
What makes this seminar more unique is that students can pursue their own academic interests through research projects. Whether your passion lies in animation, fashion, magazines, or digital culture, MAB provides the opportunity to transform personal interests into serious academic inquiry. This flexibility creates a vibrant learning environment where every student brings a unique perspective to the table.
Professor Stevie Suan expertly guides us through complex material, making abstract theories feel both relevant and accessible. I believe this seminar allows us to develop a more informed and thoughtful way of engaging with the world that will continue to help us long after university.
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.