School of International Liberal StudiesWaseda University

Miyagi First Senior High School (Graduated in March, 2006)
School of International Liberal Studies, Waseda University (Graduated in March, 2010)
MA in Human Rights, School of Political Science, University College London

―  Please tell us your current career.

I am currently working as an Emergency Officer at the UNICEF Ethiopia office. My main job involves planning, coordinating, and delivering support to children who are most affected by emergencies and humanitarian crises such as ongoing conflicts, natural disasters, and the spread of infectious diseases. This includes working on prevention and solution strategies to address recurring problems. UNICEF operates in approximately 190 countries worldwide, and due to the multitude and scale of issues within Ethiopia, our office has the largest staff and program scope among UNICEF offices in Africa. Despite facing challenging conditions, including frequent field deployments to areas experiencing gunfire or abduction, or staying in locations without electricity or water, my colleagues and I are dedicated to protecting the lives and rights of children. It is fulfilling to work with colleagues from around the world who share the common goal of safeguarding children’s lives and rights, even in the most challenging circumstances.

  ― What do you think about the appealing point and strength of SILS while working in UNICEF?

Working in an international organization involves collaborating with colleagues from various countries and languages. My team includes members from Algeria, Switzerland, the United States, Haiti, Zimbabwe, Morocco, and Ethiopia. While English is the primary language of communication, French (UN official language) and Amharic (official language of Ethiopia) are also commonly used. Working in such a diverse environment provides daily stimulation and fosters a broad perspective on different cultures and languages.

This workplace environment shares similarities with the experience of studying at SILS, where I had the opportunity to learn alongside multinational peers. Being in such environments naturally encourages one to broaden their perspectives and reassess their own beliefs and values without being constrained by fixed ideas. It is a realization that what seems obvious to oneself may not be the same for others. Additionally, SILS offers a flexible learning environment that encourages students to think independently and pursue their interests.

With colleagues from various international organizations at the “United Nations Day” event

In international organizations, a master’s degree or higher, and work experience in relevant field is often required, emphasizing the importance of specialization. While I had a vague desire to work in an international organization since high school, I was unsure about my specialization and how to prepare for it. SILS provided a wide range of courses, from international relations to archaeology and biology, allowing me to explore various interests. Looking back on my university experience, I believe that studying broadly, rather than being confined to a single field, has opened up numerous possibilities and choices for me.

In my current workplace, problem-solving relies heavily on teamwork, where each member contributes their expertise, knowledge, and ideas. Moreover, in dealing with the increasingly complex and protracted global challenges, innovative or creative thinking is required to find approaches different to bring a change. It involves examining crosscutting issues across different fields, listening to and understanding diverse opinions with a flexible mindset and thinking outside of the box. The liberal arts education I received at SILS has provided me with a foundation for such a multifaceted perspective and a mindset of mutual respect for each other’s opinions, which are essential not only in international organizations but also in jobs across various fields.

― Any message to our prospective applicants?

For high school or university students uncertain about their future paths, I believe it is unnecessary to rush into decisions about what to study or pursue as a career. Regardless of the path chosen, whether it seems indirect or not, the key is to weave together the knowledge and relevance gained from previous academic and professional experiences into a coherent narrative. It is about showcasing one’s unique personality and strengths as assets that can contribute to the chosen career. Even seemingly unrelated academic or professional backgrounds can be analyzed to find commonalities that are relevant to the desired job. Trusting one’s instincts and making the choices that feel right at the time is crucial. Despite the uncertainties and challenges in life and career decisions, I continue to strive in Ethiopia, facing each day with determination.

I look forward to meeting new SILS graduates somewhere in the world!

This content is as of the time of issuance.

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