Jihye Lee
The Power of Internships: Securing a Full-Time Role in International Sales
South Korea, Class of 2021
Jihye Lee
International Sales, Market Management Planning and Development at Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation
I work in international sales at Mitsubishi Fuso, focusing on market management, planning, and development. Day to day, I coordinate with overseas distributors, track market trends, and translate plans into actions that strengthen our sales performance.
Why did you choose to study in the IBSP program at Soka University?
I chose IBSP as an extension of my studies—and as a challenge in English. I wanted to study business in an English environment while living in Japan, and IBSP gave me exactly that combination.
My most memorable experience was my internship at Mitsubishi Fuso. It connected my classroom learning with real projects and teams. Thanks to that experience, I received a full-time job offer and stepped directly into the role I have now.
How has your experience at IBSP benefited you in your current career?
IBSP helped me build confidence using English in professional settings and prepared me to work across cultures. The program’s practical approach made the transition from student to employee very natural.
What advice would you give to prospective students who are considering joining IBSP?
For prospective students: IBSP is a great experience for Japanese students who want to study in English, and for non-Japanese students who want to study in Japan. You’ll gain skills, a network, and opportunities—like my internship—that can become your next step after graduation.