政治経済学部のグローバル教育・留学
「Do not hesitate to talk with new people or join activities, because these small steps may lead to unforgettable memories.」(Foreign Trade University, Nguyen Thu Traさん)
Profile of the exchange student
Name(氏名): Nguyen Thu Tra
Home institution(所属大学): Foreign Trade University
Period of exchange program(留学期間): 2026 Spring
What brought you to study abroad in Japan? Why did you choose Meiji University? / 日本への留学を志したきっかけと、明治大学を選んだ理由
I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture. I really admire the diversity of cultural experiences and the many festivals held throughout the year in Japan. Living in Japan would allow me to experience this culture firsthand while improving my Japanese language skills. That’s why I chose Japan as my destination. I chose Meiji University based on the recommendation of seniors from my university in Vietnam who participated in an exchange program at Meiji University. They shared many positive experiences about the academic environment and student life, which made a strong impression on me. I also learned that Meiji University has an excellent reputation and is one of the top private universities in Japan. Its location in Tokyo, where I have always hoped to study, together with its beautiful campuses and vibrant international community, made Meiji University my first choice
Do you take the Advanced Seminar course? If so, tell us the name of professor, the contents of the class, and what you like about Advanced Seminar. / 専門演習(ゼミナール)に所属していますか。所属している場合は、所属ゼミ名、所属しているゼミで学んでいる内容、ゼミ活動の感想等を教えてください。
Professor’s Name / 担当教員名:Prof. Kobayakawa
Giving a presentation in zemi-class
What do you like about Meiji University? / 明治大学の好きなところについて
(1) What is your favorite place on the campuses of Meiji University? / 明治大学のキャンパスで好きな場所はどこですか。
(2) What is your favorite subject (course) at Meiji University? / 好きな授業を教えてください。
Course title: Japanese reading class (Lecturer: Prof. Omasa)
How is your life in Japan? / 日本で過ごした感想について
(1) What made you surprised during the study abroad in Japan? / 日本に留学して驚いたところは?
(2) Comparing with your student life in/at your home country/institution, do you find anything that you particularly enjoy as well as anything challenging for you in your student life here in Japan? / 自分の国の学生生活と比べて、日本の学生生活で楽しいところ・大変だと感じるところはありますか?
What I enjoy the most about my student life in Japan is the relationship between teachers and students in class. Compared with my experience in Vietnam, I feel that the atmosphere in Japanese classrooms is more comfortable and less stressful. For example, when I make mistakes or give an incorrect answer, my professors do not immediately point out that I am wrong. Instead, they respond in a way that helps me think and improve my answer. Because of this, I feel more comfortable participating in class and sharing my opinions. I also like that professors are approachable and easy to talk to. Even during class, I feel that I can communicate with them more naturally, which makes the learning environment more enjoyable. This experience has helped me become more confident and active in class, and it is one of the things I appreciate most about studying in Japan.
■Things challenging for you / 大変なところ
To be honest, I do not think I have faced any major challenges in my student life in Japan. Before coming here, I was a little worried about adapting to a new environment, communicating in Japanese, and studying in a different academic system. However, my experience has been much smoother than I expected. The biggest difference compared with my university in Vietnam is that classes in Japan often encourage students to actively share their opinions and participate in discussions. At first, this style was unfamiliar to me, but I gradually became more comfortable through my classes and seminars. Overall, rather than being a difficult challenge, studying in Japan has been a valuable opportunity for me to experience a new learning style and become more confident.
About yourself and messages / ご自身について&メッセージ
(1) What is your dream for the future? / 将来の夢は何ですか?
(2) Please introduce your home institution and your country./ 母校(所属大学)や母国の紹介をしてください。
My home university during graduation ceremony 🎓
(3) Please give some messages for Meiji University students / 明大生へのメッセージをお願いします。
During my time at Meiji, I have experienced many memorable moments, and I truly appreciate having met all of you and having you become a part of my journey. I was especially happy when a Meiji student told me that they were interested in experiencing an exchange program at my home university in Vietnam. It made me happy to know that students from Meiji are also interested in experiencing Vietnam and my university, just as I was interested in experiencing Japan. I know that every student has their own goals, thoughts, and worries about the future. However, I hope you can appreciate the environment you have at Meiji. Studying at such a wonderful university allows you to meet people from different backgrounds, learn from each other, and even experience an international environment at Meiji University. One of my seminar friends told me that they wanted to talk with international students more, but they were sometimes too shy to start a conversation. So I hope you can take the first step and talk with us. You might make unexpected friendships and discover new perspectives. Thank you for being a part of my experience at Meiji. I hope everyone continues to enjoy this special time and make unforgettable memories.







