From Alumni

Voice From Alumni

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Ms. Dimpia Hidangmayum

From

Imphal
Degree

2nd-year student, Graduate School of International Relations

Message

Please give a short introduction about yourself.

I am Dimpia Hidangmayum and I hail from a beautiful city called Imphal, which is the capital of Manipur and is known for its beautiful landscapes, waterfalls and which has the largest freshwater lake in India. I live in a nuclear family with my father, mother and older brother.
My family have always motivated me to follow my dreams and have taught me how to pass all the hardships and obstacles of life.
My interest in International Relations developed during my bachelor’s days. Since then, I wanted to expertise myself in the field of International Relations.
My home state, Manipur, in the far north eastern region of India, is remote and still lacks proper infrastructure and the connection with the rest of the state is quite slow, unreliable and there are so many conflicts going around. Even as the rest of the world is now well connected, my home state still lacks the basic infrastructure. This gives me the motivation to learn International Relations so that I can contribute in finding better ways to enhance and make the best connection here in our state.

What is your favorite thing about IUJ, Niigata?

My Favorite thing about my University namely International University of Japan which is in Minamiuonuma, Niigata, is famous for ski resorts, hot spring baths, and famous rice “Koshi Hikari”and Sake as well. The diversity and the beautiful multicultural environment which provides plenty of facilities for learning is what I really sought for. Moreover, my one-year experience has taught me that with hard work, dedication and a positive attitude, I can learn many new things which would help me achieve what I want. To reach my goals, I have always believed that not only does academics play an important role in enhancing one’s knowledge but the environment and surrounding, people play an essential role in shaping one’s personality and bringing out the best from the individual. I would add the beautiful snow fall and the memories of all the students from around the world gathering and enjoying the snow together as one of the best parts of my favorites.
Further, why International University of Japan is attractive for someone like me is because it welcomes people of diverse cultures who are in search quality education.

In what ways has your impression of or Japan changed since coming here?

I can gladly say that change is only constant, be it in everyday life or profession. Japanese people greatly leave an impression with their politeness and honesty. What I envisioned back home like was with the way they are discipline and the level of patience they had and it is the same after coming here. I have come to really understand certain customs even more than I did when I first arrived. Overall, my impression on both Japan and Japanese have left quite strong positive effect on me and which is also the reason why I plan to continue staying in Japan even after my studies.
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What attracted you to choose as a place to study?

The name itself says it all - International University of Japan. The place where the world gathers approximately about 50 countries. The University, itself, is a place where we can gain professional experience and self-development and growth. Studying in this multinational university helped me to gain expertise in different fields and to groom me in leadership qualities and work with different nationalities. The university also offers research opportunities to eligible professionals willing to enhance their career. Additionally, Japan being comparatively new in attracting foreign students offers more scholarships opportunities. Having gathered all this information, I made my choice to pursue my masters in International University of Japan and gather in depth knowledge from the reputed professors and their experience.

In what ways did you adjust to Japanese culture?

Adjusting to Japanese cultures is a challenge I would say. Usually back home we got small vehicles to carry us from the public transport to our destinations or from the train stations to our place but here I can see people usually walk or bike a lot. The lack of trash bins on the road and so we must carry the packages of foods in our bags until we see a trash bin or throw them at a convenience store bin. The traffics play a great role as its opposite to how it is back home like if we walk right on the road here its left. The bow when we greet or taking shoes out when we are indoors or at someone’s house, not tipping, and the importance of business cards and overall the slurping of noodles. Now I have gotten used to or say adjusted very well to the norms here and am practicing it well.

Please write a message to students or researchers in your home country who may be thinking about studying in Japan.

The reason to study in Japan should be in the top priority list. If you ask why? It’s because Japan is one of the countries with the most advanced technology and has a very rich culture.
It is one of the safest places to study with high educational standards, low tuition fees and many scholarships available to help foreigners with their living conditions, can learn Japanese while earning degree, and it is a peaceful country. I believe that studying in Japan would not only prepare ourselves better for our future career but also gives an international exposure with higher standards and better facilities to embark on our journey ahead.
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