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"Not knowing" represents great potential.
Always have the courage to jump into a new world.

College of Arts and Sciences 2nd Year Student

Risa Shiotani

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The choice of "liberal arts" was driven by curiosity.

I'm from Nihonmatsu City in Fukushima Prefecture, and I've been very curious since I was a child. I've always longed to go abroad, and I've been diligently taking online English conversation lessons since high school. My mother, who majored in English literature, also supported my desire to go abroad and learn English.
 
When I was thinking about my future after graduating from high school, the biggest problem I faced was that my interests were too broad. I was drawn to a wide range of fields, including architecture, nutrition, and sports, and I simply couldn't narrow down my specialization while I was in high school.
Details of my trip to India (see below)
It was then that I encountered J. F. Oberlin University College of Arts and Sciences. You can study broadly beyond academic Area and carefully assess your area of expertise over four years. Also, the campus is filled with opportunities for international exchange, which was very appealing. I was convinced that "with this university, I can dive into a new world without suppressing my curiosity," and decided to enroll.

Broaden your horizons through experiences both inside and outside of school.

Yamanakako International Camp, organized by the international exchange organization "Global Supporters"
At university, I participate in the international exchange group 'Global Supporters,' and am involved in planning and managing Events where international and Japanese students can interact. In my second year, I became the captain of the Yamanakako International Camp, which has 120 participants. Organizing a large group with different languages and values among participants was a constant challenge, but together with my colleagues, I was able to lead the Events to success. Meeting wonderful friends is an invaluable asset for me.
On the other hand, as I was about to enter my second year of university, I made a big decision to take a break. I took a leave of absence to go to New Zealand to take on a new challenge. There, I attended a language school and then worked as a barista at a cafe on the South Island. Finding a job was tough, but I will never forget the experience of handing out my resume myself.
 
After that, I used the money I saved in New Zealand to travel to India. I believe that experiencing a different culture broadened my perspective even further.

I want to constantly update myself in order to achieve what I want to do.

Recently, I participated in a local business contest. I presented my concept of "creating a guesthouse to welcome backpackers from all over the world," and I was awarded an encouragement prize. I believe that turning the needs I felt while traveling in New Zealand into reality is my ideal job right now. To make that a reality, I am currently working hard to learn not only English but also Spanish. In my fourth year, I plan to travel around the world to further broaden my horizons.
J. F. Oberlin University provides an environment where students do not deny what they want to do, and the staff support them with genuine support. That's why sometimes it's important to have the courage to let go of your pride and dive into a new world. I am convinced that honestly admitting what you don't know or don't understand, and trying to absorb new knowledge and culture, is the fastest path to personal growth. I want to make the most of this environment and continue to have a university life without regrets.

Risa Shiotani

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She belongs to the international exchange organization "Global Supporters." She took a leave of absence from school to attend a language school in New Zealand, where she worked while learning the language. She has a wide range of interests and is an action-oriented person who honestly follows her own desires.

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

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