International Student in Japan

International Student in Japan Premachandra, C. (2014). Having a Fulfilling Life as an International Student in Japan (English Edition). Create Space Independent Publishing Platform. 102pp. Paper: $17.00. ISBN: 9781496008879.Since 1983, the Japanese government has worked to implement various reforms to make higher education in Japan more attractive to international students (Horie, 2002). Verbik and Lasanowski (2007) have identified Japan as an "evolving destination" (p. 14) in international mobility with a growing number of international students choosing to study in Japan.In the book titled, Having a Fulfilling Life as an International Student in Japan, Chinthaka Premachandra presents readers with a guide to succeeding in the classroom and navigating other areas of the international student experience in Japan. In the first chapter, Premachandra discusses the importance of international students' Japanese language proficiency leading up to their studies. The author mentions that while there are some Japanese universities that use English as a medium of instruction in some classes, English speakers still need to focus on learning Japanese in order to be comfortable and successful during their time in Japan. In chapter 2, the author stresses the importance of learning the Japanese language during his discussion of enrollment into the six levels of study including Japanese Language School, Junior College, College of Technology, Professional Training College, University, and Graduate School.Chapter 3 provides information for those who have an interest in continuing their education to the next level of study while in Japan. The author explains that the admissions process consists of an interview and either a written examination or a transfer by recommendation. As the interview is standard, Premachandra provides tips for a successful interview experience, including receiving feedback from professors and peers. In chapter 4, the author addresses classroom work and other academic concerns. He discusses the importance of registering for the correct courses, as many international students are not proficient with the Japanese language. The author warns that even those who attend Japanese Language School will likely have difficulty fully understanding the language and knowing the meaning of the many technical terms. Therefore, it is important for international students to follow up on lessons with classmates and professors to be sure that they understand important concepts.Chapter 5 proves to be particularly informative as it introduces readers to research expectations at each level of study. The author highlights the expectation that students will conduct research at all levels, beginning with undergraduate study and possibly continuing research on the same topics as they progress to masters and doctoral studies. International students who enter Japan at the graduate level generally must spend time gaining research experience prior to being fully enrolled in a graduate program. In chapter 6, Premachandra provides information on the job search process that students might begin after completing studies at each level. He states that there are generally two ways to attain employment after completing one's studies: school recommendation and free application. …