Ms. Juliane Baedelt
- Berlin, Germany
- Exchange student from University of Applied Science Bremen
Q. Why did you choose Japan to study?
When I was a high school student, I was attracted to Japanese manga and anime cartoons. I hoped to get to know more about the Japanese culture and when I was sixteen years old, I had the chance to come to Japan to study for one year. At that time, I had much trouble because of the difference between the languages, but Japanese people were very kind and friendly. I have a lot of great memories from that year. Some of my Japanese friends are the people who I met during that time and who I have kept in touch with. This time, being my second time to come to Japan to study, I intend to deepen my understanding of Japan.
Q. Why did you choose Meiji University?
The university I belong to in Germany has exchange programs with seven universities in Japan. Meiji University is one of them, but it is the only university that allows exchange students to take Japanese-taught programs the same as Japanese students. It is a great advantage that I can take the same classes as Japanese students. Of course, the fact that the university is located in Tokyo was one important reason but the main reason for choosing Meiji, is the opportunity to take classes in Japanese .
I enjoy studying at Meiji University. In particular, I am interested in environmental issues, and the university has various classes to study these kinds of issues from both logical and practical viewpoints. I learn new things everyday.
Q. About Japanese manga.
In Germany, the most published comics are written about love. But in Japan, there are not only ones featuring love but also other human feelings, such as anger, sadness and jealousy. Japanese manga are characterized by their descriptions of both the good and bad sides of human beings, and this aspect is very interesting. Also, we can learn a lot about Japanese culture from manga. For example, when I saw the barber shop pole with spinning red and blue colors for the first time in Japan, I could cope with it calmly because I was familiar with it through manga. This sort of things can’t be taught in school.
Q. What are your plans for the future?
I am interested in a job that can have an influence on the environment. I hope to work for a manufacturer of daily products, such as food, cosmetics, etc. I think enterprises that deal with daily necessities can have a great impact on environmental issues. I am also considering working in Japan. In the near future, I’m planning to start some ecology-based activities at my university in Germany, making use of the knowledge and experiences I acquired in Meiji University. For example, the university seminar I am taking has implemented a trial project to change beverage containers at the university’s convenience store into reusable bottles. I’d like to try to think about these kinds of projects with fellow students in Germany.
Q. Message to prospective students of Meiji University
Do study abroad! There are a lot of interesting and beneficial classes.
