【WHY SOKA FILA】-The reason why I chose SOKA FILA
Mr. Hiroyuki Moriki 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
Hiroyuki Moriki
Year Enrolled in FILA: 2022
Grade: 3rd year
Home Country: Japan
Why did you choose Soka University and FILA?
I heard from my seniors that in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA), students can significantly improve their English proficiency through classes that actively utilize English, depending on their own efforts. Of course, I was also told, "Since the classes are conducted in English, it will be challenging at times."
However, when I was in high school, I wanted to learn practical English in addition to what I had already studied and aspired to use English to succeed on a global stage. This strong desire became the motivation for me to apply to FILA.
What are your impressions of student life at FILA?
Since enrolling, I’ve been constantly inspired by my friends around me. Everyone has their own goals and is working hard to achieve them, which naturally motivates me to take on new challenges as well. As I move up through the years and meet more people, I’ve found friends who share similar goals, and we’re able to support each other along the way.
At FILA, there are many friends, professors, seniors, and juniors who have had experiences different from mine. Whether I’m in class or having casual conversations, I often find their perspectives refreshing and thought-provoking.
Additionally, FILA’s classes naturally involve interacting with international students, allowing us to study various subjects from a global perspective, not just a Japanese one. As a result, international topics often come up in conversations with friends, and I frequently find myself impressed by how broad-minded everyone is.
What skills have you developed by joining FILA?
The most significant improvement has been in my English proficiency. When it comes to speaking, I’ve become more comfortable participating in discussions and giving presentations in English without feeling too nervous, as I’ve challenged myself to speak as naturally as possible.
In the first and second years, I was able to build a solid foundation for studying specialized subjects in English. Through these classes, I not only improved my speaking skills but also learned how to effectively utilize my reading, listening, and writing abilities, which has been a major benefit.
Another important skill I’ve developed is the ability to ask questions and think critically. This applies to university classes in general, as learning often revolves around exploring topics that spark your curiosity or raise questions. Especially at FILA, assignments are based on personal curiosity on the learning topics, and professors actively engage students by posing thought-provoking questions.
At first, it was challenging to identify and articulate the specific points I was curious about, but compared to when I first entered university, I’ve gradually become better at recognizing and exploring these questions.
What is your future plan?
At the moment, I hope to pursue a career in the private sector where I can make use of my English skills. However, my ultimate goal is to work in a role where I can contribute directly to society, especially abroad. Eventually, I aspire to earn a Ph.D. from an overseas university and, in some way, give back to Soka University by contributing to its future.
I hope to guide future members of the Soka University community and upcoming Soka students so that they can spread their wings and make an impact on the global stage. Although this dream still feels somewhat distant, I am determined to dedicate my lifelong learning to becoming someone who can contribute to others, especially those in need.
To achieve this, I will continue to work on improving both my language skills and the abilities necessary to live and thrive independently overseas.
Please give a message to prospective international students!
At the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA), you can truly learn practical English and find opportunities to step out into the world. This faculty will firmly support your journey to make an impact in the world that’s waiting for you. So, go forward with the mindset: “The world is waiting for me!” and “If not me, then who?”
It’s perfectly okay if you haven’t decided on your future path yet. I myself decided to join FILA at Soka University toward the very end of my high school years. No matter your background, FILA offers an environment where everyone is welcome—that’s the beauty of this faculty.
Believe in your own strength and keep moving forward with confidence. I’m cheering for you with all my heart!
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