Contact
Ms. Rutvika Nandan Manohar
- From
- Maharashtra
- Degree
- 1st year of master's course, Department of Electrical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University
Message
Please give a short introduction of yourself.
I am Rutvika Manohar, from Pune, Maharashtra. I study Electrical Engineering in Kyoto University.
What is your favorite thing about Kyoto?
I love that Kyoto has a lot of little shops and places, run by mostly old couples. It gives it a sense of unique identity in a world where everything is going towards globalization. I also love the banks of the Kamo river, and the charming atmosphere of Gion.
In what way has your impression of Kyoto or Japan changed since coming here?
I viewed Japan as something distant, something I would never be able to call home. I thought the people were distant and cold. Since living here for two years, I now think of Kyoto as my second home. Having many Japanese friends, my opinion about Japanese people has changed a lot as well. They are friendly, warm and remind me of my friends back home.
What attracted you to choose Kyoto University as a place to study?
Kyoto University is famous for its research. It is one of the best universities in Japan and the world. When I saw my Professors profile, I knew I wanted to study under him. His research interests matched perfectly with what I had been wanting to do for a long time. Thus, I chose Kyoto University.
In what way did you adjust yourself to Japanese culture?
Adjusting to Japanese culture is not as difficult as people think it is. It was very smooth for me. I started loving Japanese food in the first week I was here, I participated in cultural activities, learnt Japanese and tried to understand the Japanese mindset. I became extremely punctual, and polite. It was a great experience!
Please give a message to students or researchers in your home country who may be thinking about studying in Japan?
Please consider studying in Japan, it is an experience in itself. Will you not only learn Japanese culture, but culture from over the world through the other foreigner friends you will make here. You will be exposed to a lot of cultures, languages, and it will broaden your outlook and horizons.