I am Kevin Jonathan, a first-year graduate student eager to make new friends at Waseda University! Many people say that it’s important to make new friends as a university student, but since I am a total introvert, I had no idea where to start, especially in Japan, which is commonly known as the land of solitude. Fortunately, Waseda ICC (Intercultural Communication Center) organized an event called “Welcome Cafe”, being held every semester. All students in Waseda are welcome to this event.
(Photo by ICC)
In the last semester, I only went to the event twice, which was unfortunate since I had a lot of free time. So, this time in the fall semester, I went to the event six times on different days! Because why not? By coming to the event, we can get to know more about ICC, meet new people, and possibly broaden our perspectives!
The ICC team guided us to different tables randomly so that we could get to know each other. There are also free drinks provided so that we can chat and relax while enjoying a cup of drink. There is also a topic sheet at each table so that the participants won’t run out of topics for chatting. I met a lot of people there, and we mostly talked about stuff related to our home countries, reasons for coming to Japan, what it’s like to live in Japan, recommended restaurants, and so much more. It’s surprising to know that the Waseda community is composed of students from diverse backgrounds!
Overall, I feel that this event is one of the best ways for students to meet new people and make friends. So, if you are a new student at Waseda and want to meet other students from diverse backgrounds, then this event is for you! It’s held every semester, so please come if you have free time!
(Photo by ICC)
