“The combination of a well-structured curriculum, diverse extracurricular activities, and exposure to intelligent peers and industry professionals has been instrumental.”
Emi TAKEUCHI
English-based Degree Program (Economics Major)
Graduate of Shanghai High School International Division in China
Embracing the Breadth of Economics: A Professor’s Timeless Advice
“Economics is naturally a broad church that encompasses many areas and views,” my Basic Seminar professor reminded me. Although I took this course nearly four years ago at the start of my university journey, I vividly recall the professor’s advice to explore the areas that genuinely interested me, which profoundly influenced how I chose to spend my 4 years.
Discovering Interests Through a Specialized Curriculum
While the required courses may seem intimidating, the mix of political science, economics, and methodology courses helped me discover my true interests. I was particularly drawn to macroeconomics and finance, leading me to spend two years in Professor Koeda’s Advanced Seminar. My thesis, which examined the comovement in the Nikkei 225 with its addition and deletion events, sparked my fascination with the dynamism in financial markets.
Expanding Horizons: Connecting Theory to Practice
Beyond academics, SPSE provided opportunities to connect with different networks of students. In my first year, I connected with senpais involved in TEDxWasedaU, where I had the chance to co-lead the Speaker Team in my third year. This experience helped me develop essential soft skills such as communication, project planning, and leadership. In my second year, I joined WEFF (Waseda Economics and Finance Forum), a community founded by SPSE senpais. My time at WEFF laid a strong foundation for my growing interest in the financial industry by allowing me to engage with like-minded individuals. Waseda also provided lectures from industry professionals, such as the IMF, which helped students understand the practical implications of our studies in SPSE.
How SPSE Paved the Way for My Future Career
As I prepare to start my job in the front office of a foreign investment bank, I reflect on how SPSE has helped me secure this role. The combination of a well-structured curriculum, diverse extracurricular activities, and exposure to intelligent peers and industry professionals has been instrumental. The courses guided me to my areas of interest, and through extracurricular activities and university resources, I was able to develop skills that I anticipate to be essential for my future.
