3rd grade student of the
doctoral program of the
Graduate School of Law,
Waseda University
Karaiskos Antonios
Message for international students who are considering entering the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University
This is a message for international students who are considering entering the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University. I would like to try helping you to ease your apprehension and answering your queries about education at the Graduate School of Law, Waseda University, by recounting my own experiences as an international student.
One worry you may have before studying at Waseda University is the language barrier. Since a high-level of the Japanese language is necessary for studying law, surely it is better to prepare in advance. However, it is always reassuring to have someone on campus who can assist you in your mother tongue. The professors of the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University have studied abroad. Thereofore, they can speak German, English, Chinese, French and other foreign languages fluently, and moreover, give you advice and instructions with deep understanding and consideration to international students.
The other common worry of international students is how the curriculum relates to the legal systems in their home countries. This is also a needless fear. The curriculum of the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University includes programs of literature in various foreign languages such as German, English, French and others. Therefore, you have the opportunity to be exposed to your country’s laws and also can polish your Japanese ability and deepen your understanding about Japanese law by discussions with the professors and other students about the translation of the literature.
Moreover, since many international students from various countries are studying at the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University, you can get the latest information about legal studies and lawyering in foreign countries from those international students. In addition, you can access major electronic documents in foreign countries without charge. Besides the educational environment with a rich international element, you have the opportunity to hear lectures from famous legal scholars invited from various countries to increase knowledge pertaining to your research theme.
Lastly, there may be some students who have qualms about the daily procedures at the university. I would like to tell them not to worry about this point too. All staff in the administrative office of the Graduate School of Law are always very kind and make their best efforts to support us with a smile.
I have studied at the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University for almost 4 years, enjoying a highly productive time as a researcher in this world-famous school. I would like to strongly recommend you to study at the Graduate School of Law of Waseda University.