【WHY SOKA FILA】-The reason why I chose SOKA FILA
Mr. Go Igarashi is a 3rd year student of the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA). He talked why he chose Soka University and FILA, and how he feels about FILA.
Profile
Go Igarashi
Year Enrolled in FILA: 2022
Grade: 3rd year
Home Country: Japan
Why did you choose Soka University and FILA?
When I was in my third year of junior high school, I was struggling with questions about the value of my life and the meaning of my existence. During that time, I came across the words of Founder Dr. Ikeda: "Each of you has a mission that only you can fulfill." and his encouragement filled with the hope that young people will become leaders who contribute to the world. These words deeply resonated with me, and I became convinced that my mission is to dedicate myself to helping those who are suffering around the world and to contribute to world peace.
From that moment, I set my sights on attending Soka University, founded by Dr. Ikeda, and made a firm commitment to becoming a person who could make a global impact. Determined to prepare myself, I dedicated my high school years to intensive English studies.
As I explored my path, I realized that enrolling in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts—where all classes are conducted in English and I could study alongside international students—would open the door to a global future for me. Additionally, I recognized that solving today’s complex, interwoven global issues requires a multifaceted and interdisciplinary approach. This realization led me to pursue the Faculty of International Liberal Arts, where I could gain a broad academic foundation and develop the skills necessary to address these challenges from multiple perspectives.
What are your impressions of student life at FILA?
As I continue my studies at FILA, I feel that I have grown beyond what I had ever imagined, and my life has opened up in ways I never expected. Back in high school, the idea of taking all-English classes, studying alongside international students, and going abroad felt like nothing more than a dream. However, after entering FILA, I suddenly realized that this dream had become my reality.
Of course, in the beginning, I struggled with speaking and listening English, often feeling lost in class and overwhelmed by the gap between myself and my peers. The huge amount of homework meant that I spent most of my days immersed in studies, and at times, I felt like I was losing sight of my purpose. However, the words of Founder Dr. Ikeda, "For what purpose should one cultivate wisdom? May you always ask yourselves this question!" reminded me to constantly reaffirm my goals, helping me push through those challenges.
Additionally, I was surrounded by friends who had high aspirations and worked tirelessly to achieve them. Having companions who encouraged one another and seniors who constantly supported me became a significant source of strength throughout my journey.
What skills have you developed by joining FILA?
In FILA, I was able to expand my perspective not only by improving my English skills but also by studying a wide range of academic disciplines. At Soka University, in particular, I developed the ability to see the essence of things from a broad perspective, to consider what actions should be taken now for the well-being of humanity hundreds of years into the future, and to think about how to fundamentally transform society and shift the deeper currents of history.
When I combine these perspectives with the flexibility I gained in FILA—the ability to approach and solve humanity’s challenges by drawing on insights from various academic fields rather than being confined to a single discipline—I realize the tremendous power this synergy holds.
Furthermore, FILA provided me with opportunities to study abroad and interact with students from diverse backgrounds around the world. This environment allowed me to transcend differences in race, culture, and nationality, fostering a deep conviction that we are all human beings, united by our shared humanity. Through these experiences, I cultivated the mindset of a global citizen—one who acts for the benefit of all humankind.
What is your future plan?
My dream is to achieve world peace, and I aim to work at the United Nations. Since childhood, I have been interested in poverty and conflicts in Africa. This interest led me to participate in an eight-month exchange program in Kenya from the fall of my second year at university.
During my time there, I was captivated by Africa's profound charm. Inspired by Founder Dr. Ikeda's vision that the 21st century will be the "Century of Africa," I am determined to contribute to Africa's development in the future. I believe that world peace is not something that can be achieved in a single generation, but rather through the continuous efforts of many generations.
Furthermore, my experiences in Africa made me realize that achieving world peace requires changing people's mindsets. This insight led me to recognize the potential of Soka education in fostering global citizens who contribute to world peace.
Ultimately, I aspire to establish a school in Africa that practices Soka education, nurturing individuals with a global perspective.
Please give a message to prospective international students!
The Faculty of International Liberal Arts is a place where you can expand your stage to the world. It is also a place that nurtures future global leaders. I truly believe that it wouldn’t be surprising if a future Gandhi were to emerge from Soka FILA. Perhaps you could be the Gandhi of the 21st century. With that hope in our hearts, we warmly welcome each new student.
To all prospective students, there may be times when you feel like you are groping through the darkness, facing uncertainty and doubt. There may be moments when you lose confidence. However, even if you struggle to believe in yourself, know that you possess infinite potential. You have a great mission that only you can fulfill on this planet.
No matter what hardships you encounter, keep living, keep striving, and never give up! There are people in the future who are waiting for you. There are people whom only you can save.
Above all, I hope that you will live your one and only life true to yourself, with no regrets. We are waiting for you at Soka University!
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