Student uses art to move others while expanding her own views during the process
When it comes to art, who receives inspiration from who? Is it only the viewer of art that is inspired by the artist? Hina Sasaki, a 4th year undergraduate student at the School of Political Science and Economics, started illustrating as a 1st year and sharing her art through her Instagram account. She had turned to art when she realized she could use art to convey her emotions that she couldn’t express through words. As an individual who often felt negative emotions, Hina realized she wanted to help others who felt similarly through her illustrations.
Since then, Hina has established her own brand, “Festher.”, which is a collection of fashion items that incorporate her art, such as phone accessories, clothing, and tote bags. In her 3rd year, she held a solo exhibition for her art, titled “A world without you is a world without color” (translation from the Japanese), in which she anticipated hearing firsthand the responses and reactions from visitors. Though she firmly believes the interpretation of art is up to the viewer, she was exposed to various interpretations through these face-to-face dialogues and was able to broaden her own views and thought process. Hina mentions also being influenced through student life at Waseda, stating that many Waseda students are open to and accept different of ways of thinking, and the environment allows students to be able to learn about a variety of different fields. Take a look at some of Hina’s art in the article below.
Japanese article:https://www.waseda.jp/inst/weekly/news/2023/01/11/104515/
Insight into the job-hunting process for Waseda students
Graduation season is swiftly approaching for our 4th year undergraduate students and graduate students at the end of their masters/PhD programs. Four students were asked how their job-hunting activities went: how they approached choosing which company to apply for, preparing application forms and prepping for interviews, as well as to share their results in receiving a “naitei” (tentative job offer), which each student did!
The four students each received a job offer for different positions in various fields: In the IT industry, the infrastructure industry, as a government official, and a position at the National Diet Library of Japan. While some of the students chose where to apply based on their own interests and strengths, some made their decisions after going to different information sessions held by companies, feeling out the company’s mission and work atmosphere. One student, who filled out around 100 different application forms, reflected back and mentioned, “I should have thought more about whether or not I could see myself working in a certain company or field, and only submit an application after seriously thinking about my future.” A common piece of advice from almost all the interviewed students? Reach out for support! Whether it’s an already graduated senior, the University’s Career Center, or a friend to do a mock interview with, receiving help from others is not something to shy away from.
Japanese article:https://www.waseda.jp/inst/weekly/news/2023/01/12/104401/
From beginners to pros, hone your skills with the Waseda Snowboard Association!
Calling all snowboarding lovers! Waseda Weekly recently sat down with Koki Ogawa, a 2nd year undergraduate student at the School of Education, who is currently the chief secretary of the Waseda Snowboard Association (WSB). WSB, which was established as an official club at the university in 2021, has already amassed over 100 members of various levels of skill. According to Koki, WSB strives to be a club where anyone from complete beginner to snowboarding “guru” can come together to have fun during each planned event.
Club activities range from practice and events during both on- and off-season, to members entering tournaments and working towards passing certification exams. Advanced WSB members also kindly help teach beginner-level members, many of which can learn to slide during their first day! The club is also registered under the All Japan Student Snowboarding Association (SSBA) and takes part in the association’s yearly summer barbeques and winter retreats. Though a club at Waseda, a big emphasis is put on creating opportunities for exchange with students from different universities and snowboarding clubs. There are different types and styles of snowboarding, such as jibbing, highline, carving turn, etc., and different clubs/members tend to have different styles they particularly excel at. Through these exchange events, members can discuss and help each other improve their craft. So, what do you say? The snow is calling you!
Japanese article: https://www.waseda.jp/inst/weekly/news/2023/01/13/104581/