Madina KOMEKBAY is an International Exchange Student from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. She shared her experiences of life in Japan and at Waseda University.
Q1. What made you decide to come to Waseda to study?
I have been interested in Waseda since I was a freshman. As soon as I saw Waseda students wearing red t-shirts at my home university, I said to myself that I would make it there myself one day.
Q2. What are you currently studying at Waseda?
I study social medicine at the School of Human Sciences, under Professor Ogihara.
Q3. Please describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class.
I joined a softball game. I have never played softball before, but it was a lot of fun and interesting.
Q4. Tell us about your campus life at Waseda University.
At Tokorozawa campus, I often study in the library or in Professor Ogihara’s lab. At Waseda campus, I attend Japanese classes, and at Toyama campus, I’m a member of a few societies.
Q5. What did you gain from studying at Waseda University?
I am happy to have had the opportunity to study at Waseda under Professor Ogihara and am pleased that both my Japanese and English skills have been improved.
Q6. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as an international student?
At first, it was very difficult for me, but now I have a lot of Japanese and international friends.
Q7. What differences do you perceive between Japanese universities and universities in your home country?
Japanese universities have a wider range of opportunities for students.
Q9. What surprised you the most when you came to Japan?
The most surprising thing about Japan for me was the cleanliness and beauty of nature. I was also surprised by the politeness and friendliness of Japanese people and the quality of Japanese food and service.
Q10. Did you or do you have a part-time job in Japan? If so, what kind of part-time work did you or do you do?
I worked at cafe Tsubasa near Tokorozawa campus.
Q11. Did you or do you belong to any societies(circles) or participate in any club activities? Please tell us which clubs you belonged to and what kind of activities you were involved in.
I was a member of a karate club during the fall semester. I enjoyed experiencing Japanese martial arts. In the spring semester, I joined hiking, manga and English conversation clubs. In the hiking club, we climbed mountains and went sightseeing in nature. I also sometimes draw pictures, so I learned drawing techniques and read manga in the manga club. I joined the English club as I was interested in making foreign friends. I made many friends and good memories.
Q12. What are your plans and outlook for the future?
I would like to study for a master’s degree, but before that I would like to work for the Embassy of Japan in Kazakhstan.
