Graduate's Voice ①
Here is the interview with Mr. Lin Bin, one of the graduates of March 2010. In June 2008, Mr. Lin graduated from Zhejiang University College of Economics, Zhejiang, China. Subsequently; Mr. Lin joined us at Tokyo Riverside School in October 2008. He studied with us for a period of 18 months. Now he is a 1st-year master's degree student of the graduate school of economics at Hitotsubashi University.
*This interview was held in December 2010.
Q1 Can you tell us about your present daily routine
I lead quite a fulfilling academic life nowadays; I am studying at the research center 4 days per week. I arrive at the research center at 9:30AM; won't finish until 5pm in the evening. I spend most of my spare time there in the library. There are about 60 students in my Economic Research class; 10 of the students in my class are from my homeland China. I made a few new friends there in my class. I now major in International Economics; due to the course's requirement in western economic curriculum; I do find it tough to negotiate through all the required English reference books. As from next year; I will be carrying out formal research in class. For the sake of my future success in this field; I am trying hard to digest all I can take in during my stay here. If I feel tired, I will turn to music as the soothing agent; and to take on tomorrow as a new challenge.
Q2 Could you tell us why you chose Japan as your destination to further your education and why particularly; you chose Tokyo Riverside School?
I was in my second year in University in China when I first consider furthering my education overseas. I did consider the U.S. initially, but while I was graduating; I spoke to a friend of my father's; who is a professor at Waseda. The fact that I did learned Japanese earlier; with the advantage of language, it may prove helpful with the daily life there; if I am to continue my studies in Japan.
This friend of my father's; have an acquaintance that teaches in Tokyo Riverside School. Through him, I knew Tokyo Riverside School's teachers are diligent and professional.
So, I chose Tokyo Riverside School.
Q3 What can you tell us about your daily life as a student of Tokyo Riverside School?
I can still remember my first day there. The teacher there was explaining to us in details of the pronunciation and the tone of voice in saying a sentence. In China, the teachers there have less emphasis of those. Hence students have less confidence in pronunciation. This method used in TRS suits me much better. Just as I was informed earlier, the teachers at TRS are sincere and warm towards all students. From junior classes to senior classes; the teachers at TRS emphasize the importance of communication among people. This gives me the confidence I need to qualify for my entrance interview to the research center. I also manage to socialize with the primary school students near TRS. While studying in TRS I made many friends from countries around the world; there are many curriculums outside of school that brings me joyous memories. The trip to Mount Fuji; the Fireworks festival; the tour at the beer factory and the visit to the motor-car factory. And there was the graduation party and more. They are such wonderful events; I don't think I will ever forget them.
Q4 What is your vision for the future?
After I graduate, I will like to join a finance corporation; may be a stock/security firm. Applying what I have learned in school; accumulates more experience and one day I will form my own company.
My goal is to run a business that can have a positive contribution to society
Q5 Would you like to share your thoughts with those who are considering to join TRS?
As soon as you arrive in Japan; keep in mind that; time is of the essence. Don't waste valuable time. Most importantly; take it seriously when learning Japanese; because it is the foundation of your everyday life.