【WHY SOKA FILA】-The reason why I chose SOKA FILA
Mr. Sora Ishikawa is a 1st 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
Sora Ishikawa
Year Enrolled in FILA: 2025
Grade: 1st year
Home Country: New Zealand
Why did you choose Soka University and FILA?
There were several reasons why I chose Soka University and the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA). The first reason is that I was inspired by my father, who is a graduate of this university. I decided to follow in his footsteps because of the many stories he shared with me about his experiences and how Soka University is a place where students can grow both academically and as human beings. I believe this is a wonderful motto to live by. Another reason I chose to study abroad at Soka University is that I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and venture into the unknown. Studying at this university gave me the opportunity to challenge myself in a new environment and broaden my perspectives. Now, I will explain why I chose FILA as my field of study. One reason is that I wanted to improve my Japanese proficiency while continuing to develop my English skills. I believe that being proficient in both languages will support my goal of becoming a global citizen. In addition, FILA offers students a wide range of academic fields to explore. This aspect especially appealed to me because, after graduating from high school, I was still unsure which specific area I wanted to pursue. FILA allows me to discover new disciplines that were previously unfamiliar to me and to find a path that truly matches my interests.
How did you find FILA?
I first learned about the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) through my father, who introduced Soka University to me and encouraged me to explore its programs in more depth. After hearing about FILA, I visited the official university website and carefully read through the curriculum, course descriptions, and student voices. As I learned more, I realized that FILA’s emphasis on global perspectives, critical thinking, and education in English aligned closely with my own interests and goals. It became clear that this was not just a suitable faculty for me, but the ideal environment in which I could grow academically and personally. In 2024, I had the opportunity to attend an open campus event, which strengthened my desire to join FILA. There, I spoke with several seniors about their experiences and what they enjoyed studying. One conversation that resonated deeply with me was with a senior from India who, like me, is Japanese by blood but was raised in another country. Hearing how FILA allowed them to embrace both their international background and Japanese identity made me feel that I could also belong and thrive in this community. Through these experiences, I came to believe that FILA offers more than just academic learning; it provides a multicultural environment where students can broaden their worldview, challenge themselves, and develop the skills necessary to contribute to global society. That is why I decided that FILA is the best place for my future studies.
What are your impressions of student life at FILA?
My impressions of student life at FILA have been extremely positive. Since entering the program, I have had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both Japanese students and international students from many different countries. I feel that this diversity is one of the greatest strengths of FILA. Through daily conversations, group work, and classes conducted in English, I am constantly exposed to new viewpoints, ways of thinking, and cultural backgrounds. This environment allows me not only to improve my communication skills, but also to broaden my understanding of the world. I believe that experiencing different cultures firsthand is a crucial step toward becoming a true global citizen, which is one of my personal goals. FILA provides many chances to engage in discussions on global issues, share personal experiences, and reflect on our identities. These interactions have helped me grow both academically and personally. Another strong impression I have of student life at FILA is the exceptional support system. Professors, seniors, and classmates are always willing to help, whether it is with coursework, university life, or personal concerns. This supportive atmosphere makes the faculty feel like a close community, almost like a family. Knowing that I am surrounded by people who encourage one another has given me confidence to take on new challenges. Overall, student life at FILA is vibrant, supportive, and truly international. It has provided me with friendships, inspiration, and a strong sense of belonging, all of which enrich my university experience.
What is your plan after graduation from FILA?
At this stage, I am still exploring my exact career path, but studying in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts has helped me develop a clearer sense of direction. During my first year at FILA, I was introduced to the field of International Relations, and I soon realized that this was the area I wanted to pursue further. The subject allowed me to think beyond national borders and understand how countries, cultures, and individuals are interconnected. This experience inspired me to consider a future career related to international cooperation and global problem-solving. After graduating from FILA, I plan to continue deepening my knowledge in International Relations, either through graduate studies or by entering an international organization, NGO, or globally focused company. I am particularly interested in work that involves communication across cultures, policy analysis, or international education. My goal is to contribute to creating environments where people from different backgrounds can understand one another and work together peacefully. One of the main reasons I am drawn to this path is my desire to develop a broader worldview and to be involved in meaningful change. By studying International Relations, I hope to gain the skills necessary to understand diverse perspectives, analyze global issues, and respond to them thoughtfully. Ultimately, I want my future occupation to have a positive and tangible impact on society, even if it is in small steps. FILA has given me the foundation and confidence to move toward this goal.
Please give a message to prospective international students!
To all prospective international students, I know that the idea of studying abroad in a completely new country can feel daunting or even frightening. Leaving familiar surroundings, adapting to a different language, and entering a new academic environment are not easy choices. However, from my own experience and from the experiences of my friends, I can confidently say that taking this step into the unknown is truly rewarding and something you will not regret. Living and studying in a new country allows you to discover more about the world and about yourself. You will meet people from diverse backgrounds, encounter new ideas, and develop independence and resilience. There may be moments of uncertainty, but these challenges are also opportunities for growth. Each difficulty you overcome will make you stronger and more confident. Even if you worry about failure or not fitting in, please remember that you will not be alone. As I have mentioned before, there are students, seniors, professors, and staff members across the university who are always willing to offer help and guidance. This supportive environment ensures that you can both enjoy your daily life and focus on your studies with peace of mind. Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree; it is about expanding your horizons, forming lifelong friendships, and building a global perspective. If you are considering this path, I encourage you to take the leap—you may be surprised by how much you grow and how many unforgettable experiences await you.
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