Hi there! My name is Hida. Four months ago, I dared myself to travel miles away from my home country, Indonesia, to pursue my dream as an engineer. Now, I am studying at Tokyo Tech under the Global Scientists and Engineers Program. Living here has taught me things beyond my expectations. Here is a peek at my typical day as a Tokyo Tech student.
I normally leave for school at 7.30 in the morning since most of the day class starts at 9. I live in Umegaoka Dormitory along with fellow GSEP friends. It takes roughly 45 minutes to commute from the dorm to Ookayama Campus by train. I started to develop a habit of reading while riding the train after seeing a lot of people doing it. I think it is a really nice way to make use of the time.
There are several types of course that we need to take i.e. Basic Science and Tech., Language, and Humanities and Social Science. We have 2 to 4 classes each day. Japanese language skill is not required to enroll this program because the lectures are available in English. Despite taking the English classes, my classmates are not limited to international students. There are also numerous Japanese students attend these classes. It allows me to practice my Japanese and gives me a better understanding on Japanese culture and work-ethic. The lecturers are supportive and encouraging. They are very passionate in teaching. I obtained a lot of new knowledge. We also often assigned to work in group or do discussion which strengthen my communication skill as well as critical thinking.
Lunch time is usually spent at the cafeteria. As a Muslim, I have some food restrictions. Fortunately, halal foods (permissible according to Islamic law) are provided there. The cafeteria can be quite hectic sometimes so another alternative is to eat lunch at the English café. The place is super cozy and I get to know many English-speaking people on campus in a relaxed, fun environment. A full-time faculty member from the Foreign Languages Section is present as a resource and facilitator.
After the last class finishes, I like to spend the rest of the day in the library, whether to study, do homework or simply read novels. Among other places in the campus, I can say the ‘cheesecake’ library is my favorite. The calming environment helps me to concentrate while studying. There are many differently-designed spots and I like to change my seat everyday so that I don’t get bored. There is also a specific room where we are allowed to talk. We can study in groups there.
Friday evening is the time to loosen up a bit after dealing with schoolwork for the whole week. My GSEP mates and I will go out and have dinner together. I truly enjoy it. We’re starting to know each other better. It’s amazing to think that we were once strangers with names we could barely pronounce but somehow life gave us a sip of shared experience. And by the time we realized we’ve became friends, the time came back from its short hibernation.
Weekends are filled with fun rides. Some of us have club activities or part time jobs to do. I myself decided to use my leisure time to explore the city either with friends or by myself. Traveling here was confusing at the beginning. Especially since I barely walked and took public transportation back in Indonesia. But, now, I’ve grown to adapt to a whole new lifestyle without cars and relying on my own two feet to get around.
Living alone for the first time, not to mention with culturally different surroundings can be challenging. However, it is also a good opportunity to discover and learn new things. I’m so grateful for being here. It has been a great 4 months so far, and I’m looking for many more.
