Both studying and club activities.
Using the experience gained from balancing both,
I want to continue taking on challenges even as a working adult.

College of Performing and Visual Arts 4th Grade

Miwa Nishizaki

Main content

My work was selected as a winning entry in the first awards ceremony I participated in.

I submitted my work, "Together," to the "JAGDA International Student Poster Award 2024," organized by the Japan Graphic Designers Association (JAGDA), and it won the DynaComware Award, a special award from the sponsoring company.

The award's theme is Peace. The word "Peace" is envisioned as continents, connected by bridges. The white areas represent "together," conveying the idea that even with differing positions and values, peace can be achieved through cooperation.

Until now, I had never entered any contests or awards. At university, I studied a wide range of fields, including video and graphic design. I am very happy that "Together" was selected as a winning entry in my final year, my fourth year.

What you can gain from balancing studying and club activities

Scenes from when I participated in the Japan Cup

In addition to studying at College of Performing and Visual Arts, I have been active in the cheerleading club for four years. The defining feature of J. F. Oberlin University 's performances is that they are "beautiful." Preparing for competitions like the JAPAN CUP, I focused on zero mistakes and practiced diligently to deliver "clean and dynamic" performances. In my third year, I was chosen as captain and literally led a life centered around cheerleading. It was difficult to find time outside of class to work on design, but I think I managed to get through somehow.

I hear that fewer students are participating in extracurricular activities these days. However, I believe that balancing academics and extracurricular activities has positive effects on both. The trial-and-error experiences I gained, such as the words I exchanged with club members and the methods of communication, have been useful in my design work. Conversely, the design knowledge I learned in class was helpful when making T-shirts for the club activities.

University life only happens once, so if you have even the slightest interest, I hope you'll join a club activity and gain the experience of wholeheartedly dedicating yourself to one thing.

With the support of those around me, I was able to have a fulfilling university life without any regrets.

After graduating from university, I will be joining an apparel manufacturer that plans, manufactures, and sells women's clothing. As a graphic designer, I will be responsible for designing the company's website and promotional materials. I want to challenge myself in various areas, including sales and product planning, while also creating an environment where I can pursue my passion for design.

As graduation approaches, I am once again reminded that J. F. Oberlin University has many good qualities. Especially College of Performing and Visual Arts, in a good way, it doesn't feel like a "class." Over the past four years, I truly felt that "studying is fun!" as I created what I loved and received a lot of inspiration from the works presented by classmates.

In 2024, I went to the UK for about three weeks to study abroad. I was worried that it might cause trouble for my club activities, but there was a "short-term program" available during spring break, so I was able to participate. I'm so glad that my dream came true.

Universities offer many environments that support individual challenges. Please take advantage of the support of those around you and have a fulfilling university life.

Works created by Nishizaki for the graduation exhibition

Miu Nishizaki

Profile
While serving as the head of the cheerleading club at the Special Strengthening Club, he is also active in production activities at College of Performing and Visual Arts Visual Arts Major, and received the DynaComware Award, a special award from a sponsoring company, at the "JAGDA International Student Poster Award 2024" hosted by the Japan Graphic Designers Association (JAGDA).

Interview date:
*This interview was conducted in February 2025.

Both studying and club activities.Using the experience gained from balancing both,I want to continue taking on challenges even as a working adult.

Main content

My work was selected as a winning entry in the first awards ceremony I participated in.

What you can gain from balancing studying and club activities

With the support of those around me, I was able to have a fulfilling university life without any regrets.

Related content

Both studying and club activities.
Using the experience gained from balancing both,
I want to continue taking on challenges even as a working adult.