Nagasaki Wesleyan University students in the Department of International Studies Community Service Learning (CSL) program were asked to share their thoughts about the university. The fourth and final question presented to the students is:

“What advice would you like to give to new students?”

Student responses are as follows:

 

鎮西学院大学を志望している人たちにアドバイスをするとしたら、良い環境で勉強をしながら楽しく過ごせることができるという点です。なぜならほかの大学と比べて、学生の人数が少なく、先生との距離も比較的近い環境で勉強することができます。わからないことがあったら親身に教えてくれる優しい先生方がたくさんいます。

学科が3つあるので、その学科ごとで発展した勉強内容を学ぶことができます。しかし、学科はありますが、違う学科の授業など、受けることができるので、とても幅広い分野を学ぶことができます。私は多分かコミュニケーション学科に所属しているのですが、発展的な言語学習ができているのも魅力の一つだと思います。

そして他にも、自然豊かな環境もあります。この大学の歴史でもある、バラがあるのですが、咲くととても綺麗です。他にも春夏秋冬それぞれの季節で見合った自然を楽しむことができるのも魅力だと思います。話はそれますが、地域密着型の授業などもあるので、諫早市の方々と交流する機会も少なくありません。たくさんの方々とも交流できるので貴重な体験をすることができます。

If I could give advice to those who are applying to Nagasaki Wesleyan University/Chinzei Gakuin University, it would be that you can have fun while studying in a good environment. This is because compared to other universities, the number of students is small, and you can study in an environment where you are relatively close to your teachers. There are many kind teachers who will kindly teach you if you don’t understand something.

There are three departments, so you can study advanced subjects in each department. However, even though there are departments, you can take classes in other departments, so you can study a wide range of fields. I’m in the Department of International Studies, and I think one of the attractions is that I can study advanced languages.

In addition, the university is also surrounded by abundant nature. There are roses, which are part of the university’s history, and they are very beautiful when they bloom. Another attraction is being able to enjoy nature in each season of the year. On a side note, there are also classes that are based in the community, so there are many opportunities to interact with people from Isahaya City. You can have a valuable experience by interacting with many different people.

ASさん

 

私が新しく入学してくる後輩に伝えたいのは、何事にもチャレンジしてみて欲しいということです。大学生活を送っていく中で、ボランティア活動や海外研修等に参加できる機会が沢山あります。その中で、少しでも興味を持ったら挑戦してみる心が大事だと思います。例えば、海外に行かなければ経験できないことが沢山あると思うし、現地の人との交流を通して内面的にも強くなれる気がするからです。ボランティアの話をゼミの先生からもらったり、学校側からもらったり海外研修等についても学校から声をかけてもらえたりするのでその機会をぜひ大事にしてほしいと思います。大学生である今でしか体験できないこともあると思うし、それから大学生である今が時間が沢山会って自分のしたいことができる貴重な機会です。その大事な機会を自分のものにして欲しいと私は思います。私自身も大学で教えてもらった海外プログラムに参加して、気付くことが多かったのでこれから入学してくる後輩にもぜひ何事にもチャレンジしてみてほしいと思います。自分を信じて！

I want to tell my juniors that I’d like to try anything. In university life, there are a lot of opportunities to volunteer and go to overseas training and so on. In that, I think that it is important to have the heart to try something if you are even slightly interested. For example, I think there are a lot of things you can’t experience unless you go to foreign countries, and I feel like you can become stronger internally through interacting with local people. You may receive information about volunteer opportunities from your seminar teacher and your school. Your school may contact you about overseas training, so I hope you will take advantage of these opportunities. I think there are some things you can only experience now as a university student, and being a university student now is a valuable opportunity to meet people and do what you want. I want you to make this important opportunity their own. I learned a lot of things from participating in overseas problems that I was taught at university, so I would like to encourage my juniors who will be entering the university from now on to try something. Believe in yourself!

SSさん

 

I would like to give advice that relationships with other people and consulting with the teacher or student support are important to new students.

In university life, we have faced the group work including the presentation in front of many people. so that there are many processes to complete its work compared to the past time. Also, the opportunity to announce the presentation increased, it requires exchanging ideas and opinions regularly. 

When I could feel “this one would be successful and catch the audience’s attention” we have made it to conscious as I written over. 

Through these factors and experiences, exchanging ideas and opinions makes the whole work and various scenes in university life better. We can make use of the time when telling important things such as making an appointment or solving questions about homework. For that reason, relationships with other people are an important factor in completing cooperative work and living a graceful university life.

Also, consulting is the strengthening point for every person, in the university or society and home. According to my friend’s telling, the person who can consult will be trusted by other people at various times, and it can be done by daily communication. I feel it at the usual class and part time job especially 3^rd period. Also, there’s a case of contrasting situations happening, advising the people who ask any questions. It will connect to the future trust with other people certainly.

YMさん

As a sophomore, I have some advice for students who are just starting their academic journey. First of all, prioritize time management. Juggling lectures, assignments and personal matters can be stressful, so creating a scientific and reasonable schedule will help you allocate time effectively for studying, extracurricular activities and relaxation.

Furthermore, do not hesitate to actively interact with your professors and friends. Build relationships with lecturers and friends. Participating in group activities or class discussions can help you better understand the material, establish relationships that can benefit you in the future.

In addition, explore extracurricular activities that match your interests. Joining clubs not only enriches your college experience but also helps you develop necessary skills and meet new friends. Finally, remember to take care of your mental and physical health. Balancing study and self-care is essential for long term success. Make time for exercise, healthy eating and relaxation, and don’t hesitate to seek support if you feel overwhelmed.

GTさん

 

As a new student, it’s important to approach your academic journey with an open mind and a positive attitude. One of the most important pieces of advice I can give is to be proactive in seeking help when needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors, teaching assistants, or even fellow students if you’re struggling with your studies. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are always resources available to help you succeed. Additionally, make sure to manage your time wisely. College life can be overwhelming at first, but learning to prioritize your tasks and stay organized will help you avoid stress. Try to set aside time each day to study, but also allow yourself to take breaks and enjoy activities outside of your academic work. Another piece of advice is to take the time to explore your interests and passions. College is a great opportunity to discover new things and meet people from diverse backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, join clubs, or participate in extracurricular activities. These experiences will not only enhance your college life but also help you grow as a person.

FHさん

 

I would like to give three pieces of advice to new students: first, make lots of friends. When you first enter university, you may feel a lot of anxiety. If you have friends, you can consult with them and your anxiety will dissipate a little. The second is to take on challenges. College students have a lot of time on their hands. I think it is a good idea to make the most of that time and try to get a qualification or find something you like and give it your all. Life is a series of challenges. I hope that through these challenges you will enjoy your college life as a stronger adult. Finally, study. It is easy to think that you don’t need to study once you enter the workforce, but there is nothing to lose by studying. Studying is important. I hope that you will continue to learn and grow as a person. These are the things I would like to advise new students.

Please enjoy your university life.

TKさん

 

I would like to advise the new students that it is important to clearly decide what they want to become in the future and what they should do in this university to achieve that. If they have a clear understanding of what they need to do for their future, I believe they will be able to have a fulfilling four years in university and will also be successful in their future careers. Actually, before entering university, I didn’t have a clear goal, so even now, I am doing various things and going through some struggles in my university life. Therefore, I want new students to set at least one goal before entering university and work hard toward their future. 

Also, I want new students to talk to as many seniors as possible. By talking to seniors, new students will be able to gain a lot of information about lectures, part-time jobs, and more. When I was a first-year student, I talked to many seniors and was able to get valuable information, such as efficient ways to choose classes and popular part-time jobs. I believe that obtaining such information is also important for having a more fulfilling university life. 

These are my pieces of advice for the new students.

ZKさん

I would like to offer pieces of advice to new students. First, you better know how to make time management. In the university, we don’t have the same schedule. We need to decide our class schedule for myself. Also, if you are going to do a part-time job or something like that, you need to be careful of that much more. I mean you need to prepare your mind for that. Second, you should decide your goal while you are an undergraduate student. Basically, the time of university is only 4 years. I think it is so short. In my case, I am going to be a senior soon. I feel my 2 years passed so fast. I feel like I just spent only 3~4 months. I was able to study abroad but if I had not decided that, I have wasted that valuable time. I decided to study English while I was at university. So I hope everyone can do what you want in the university. Third, I think you better do a part-time job. It is because you can get some skills and rely on other people who are in another university so you can expand the community. I don’t know how it helps you but it is going to be your help.

IMさん

 

When you enter college, you will have so much more freedom compared to your previous school life. That is why it is more important to manage your schedule and physical condition by yourself. By doing so, you will be able to enjoy your university life to the fullest in a disciplined manner.

Also, here at Chinsei Gakuin University, we are a very homey school. The teachers are all very kind and helpful, and they are willing to listen to anything you have to say, even if it’s about your personal life. Many of the students are unique and individualistic, so it may take courage to talk to them on first impression, but rest assured that they are all very friendly!

Above all, since you can choose all your own classes, it is a good idea to concentrate on what you like and are interested in with an eye to the future, and to work hard to earn as many credits as possible from your first year. Take it easy and do all you can to enjoy your freedom. Let’s enjoy our university life together!

NYさん

 

For new students, my biggest advice is to stay open-minded and proactive. University is a time of growth, and the more you engage with your studies, social life, and extracurricular activities, the more rewarding your experience will be.

Socially, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Join clubs, participate in events, and make connections with both classmates and professors. Networking is valuable not only for friendships but also for future career opportunities. If you’re studying in a different country or environment, immerse yourself in the culture—learn the language, try local foods, and make friends with locals.

Most importantly, take care of yourself. Balancing academics, social life, and personal well-being is crucial. Make time for self-care, exercise, and getting enough rest. University life can be stressful, but staying organized and maintaining a positive mindset will help you navigate challenges.

YIさん

新入生へのアドバイス

 大学生活は、自分の可能性を広げる絶好のチャンスです。充実した4年間を過ごすために、ぜひ意識してほしいことがあります。

 まず、積極的に挑戦することが大切です。大学では、新しい学問に触れるだけでなく、部活動やサークル、ボランティア、留学など、さまざまな経験ができます。最初は不安でも、一歩踏み出せば思いがけない発見や成長があります。

 次に、人とのつながりを大切にしましょう。友人や先輩、先生との交流を通じて、学びや視野が広がります。特に、講義ではわからないことがあれば遠慮せず質問し、仲間と協力して理解を深めることが大切です。

 また、時間管理の意識を持つことも重要です。大学では自由な時間が増える一方、自己管理が求められます。授業、課題、アルバイト、趣味のバランスを考え、計画的に行動する習慣を身につけましょう。

 最後に、楽しむことを忘れずに！ 失敗を恐れず、たくさんの経験を積むことで、自分らしい未来が開けます。素晴らしい大学生活を送ってください！

CKさん

 

Advice for New Students:

Starting university is an exciting and transformative experience. Here are some detailed tips to help you succeed:

Set Clear Goals

Take time to think about what you want to achieve academically, socially, and personally. Having clear objectives will give you direction and motivation.

Stay Organized

Use tools like planners or apps to manage deadlines, classes, and extracurricular activities. Good organization prevents last-minute stress and helps you stay on top of your tasks.

Engage with Your Community

Join clubs or participate in events. These are excellent opportunities to meet like-minded peers and explore your interests outside the classroom.

Prioritize Self-Care

Balance is key to maintaining health and productivity. Eat nutritious meals, exercise regularly, and ensure you get adequate sleep. Mental health is equally important, so take breaks and seek support when needed.

Be Open to New Experiences

University is a time to step out of your comfort zone. Explore diverse perspectives, try unfamiliar activities, and challenge yourself academically and socially.

Seek Help Early

If you face academic or personal difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out. Professors, advisors, and campus support services are there to help.

Remember, university is not just about earning a degree—it’s about personal growth. Make the most of every opportunity, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they’re part of the learning process.

SJさん

新入生に対してアドバイスをするのは、とても意味のあることですね。大学や学校に新しく入学することで、たくさんの不安や期待があると思いますが、いくつかのポイントをお伝えしたいと思います。

1. 自分のペースで進むこと
   新しい環境に適応するには時間がかかります。周りの人がどうしているかと比べて焦ったり、不安になったりすることもあるかもしれませんが、自分のペースで進むことが大切です。焦らずに少しずつ慣れていけばいいんですよ。
2. 積極的に人と関わる
   新しい友達やクラスメート、先輩たちと関わることで、多くの学びがあります。最初は緊張するかもしれませんが、オープンマインドで接してみると、意外な共通点が見つかったり、刺激的な経験をすることができます。学校のイベントやサークル活動にも積極的に参加してみましょう。
3. 質問を恐れない
   わからないことがあったときに、質問するのをためらわないこと。どんな些細なことでも、疑問に思ったことはその場で解決した方が後々楽になります。先生や先輩、同級生はきっとあなたの質問を歓迎してくれるはずです。
4. 健康を大切にする
   新しい環境に慣れるのは大変ですが、心身の健康も大切にしてください。忙しさに流されて睡眠不足や食事が偏ると、集中力が落ちてしまいます。適度に休息を取り、バランスの取れた食事を心がけましょう。
5. 失敗を恐れない
   新しい挑戦をする中で、失敗やミスがあるのは当たり前のことです。失敗を経験することで成長できますし、それが後々大きな糧になります。完璧を目指すのではなく、学びながら前進することが大切です。
6. 自分の興味を大切にする
   たくさんの新しい知識や経験に触れる中で、自分が本当に興味を持っていることややりたいことを見つけることができるはずです。自分の興味を大切にして、それを追求することが学びの楽しさにつながります。
7. 時間管理を意識する
   大学や学校では、自分で時間を管理することが重要です。忙しくなるとついつい後回しにしてしまいがちですが、早めに計画を立てて、効率よく学習や課題に取り組むことが大切です。

新しい環境に飛び込むことはとても勇気がいることだと思いますが、最初のうちは少し不安でも、次第に慣れて楽しくなります。あなたが素晴らしい大学生活を送れることを応援しています！

CDさん

 

For new students, my biggest advice is to stay open-minded and proactive. University is a time of growth, and the more you engage with your studies, social life, and extracurricular activities, the more rewarding your experience will be.

Socially, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Join clubs, participate in events, and make connections with both classmates and professors. Networking is valuable not only for friendships but also for future career opportunities. If you’re studying in a different country or environment, immerse yourself in the culture—learn the language, try local foods, and make friends with locals.

Most importantly, take care of yourself. Balancing academics, social life, and personal well-being is crucial. Make time for self-care, exercise, and getting enough rest. University life can be stressful, but staying organized and maintaining a positive mindset will help you navigate challenges.

Enjoy the journey—it’s a unique and transformative experience!

YIさん

 

新入生には、まず積極的に学問に取り組み、興味を持つことを勧めます。大学は知識を深める場所ですが、同時に多様な価値観や考え方を学ぶ機会でもあります。他の学生との交流を大切にし、グループワークやサークル活動を通じてコミュニケーション能力を高めましょう。時間管理をしっかり行い、健康や生活リズムも整えることが大切です。また、悩んだり迷ったりすることがあっても、一人で抱え込まず、周囲のサポートを活用してください。大学生活は自分を成長させる貴重な時間です。

SJさん

 

私が転入生にアドバイスしたいことは、鎮西学院大学での悩み事を解決する手助けについてです。大学の学内、学外の両方で困った出来事があっても、相談に乗って対応したいと考えています。必要であれば実際に教えたり、生活についてのアドバイスなどもしたいと思います。転入生の人と関わることは少ないので、失礼が無いようにしたいです。 

SFさん

 

まず、勉強や将来のために頑張ること、単位をとることも大事ではあるがそれよりも仲良くなれる友達をつくっていった方私的に一番大事であると思います。もし、友達や先輩を多く作りたいならばサークルに入ることをおすすめします。最初は、大学という（特に９０分という講義）環境に慣れないけれど自然に慣れていくと思います。就職や講義で悩んでも気軽に話すことができる先生方や事務の方々が多くいらっしゃるので勉強面も心配をすることはないと思います。特に就職活動では、面接や履歴書の書き方まで詳しく学ぶことができます。この学校には他の大学とは違い多くの留学生の方々がいるので話かけてみてもいいかもしれません。学科やコースで専門的な知識も他の学校と同じように学ぶことができるので飽きることがないです。

First of all, although it is important to study, work hard for your future, and earn credits, I personally think that the most important thing is to make friends that you can become good friends with. If you want to make many friends and seniors, we recommend joining a club. At first, you won’t get used to the university environment (especially the 90-minute lectures), but I think you’ll get used to it naturally. There are many teachers and administrative staff that you can feel free to talk to if you are worried about finding a job or taking classes, so I don’t think you need to worry about studying. Especially when it comes to job hunting, you can learn everything from interviews to how to write a resume. Unlike other universities, this school has many international students, so it might be a good idea to talk to them. You can learn specialized knowledge in departments and courses just like you would at other schools, so you will never get bored

THさん