UCLA-GraSPP Event 2012

Event Report

Kenjiro Taniguchi

On 26th March, more than 40 students from both ends of the Pacific gathered at Kojima Hall. On their second day of the Japan Trip, we welcomed Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) to Hongo Campus of the University of Tokyo. The UCLA-GraSPP Event 2012 was an incredible opportunity for both of us to introduce our schools and build international friendships.

After the welcoming speech by Dean Kuniaki Tanabe, Prof. Takatoshi Ito gave a short lecture titled “A Ten-minute Introduction to the Japanese Economy”. In the lecture, he mentioned that there were three problems with the Japanese economy: deficit, deflation and demography, which he called the “3Ds”. His concise explanation summarized precisely the current situation that Japan is facing.

Next, we had a presentation session, where Associate Prof. Masahiro Matsuura and students from UCLA introduced their own schools respectively. In this session, we were able to exchange information on each school's history, curriculum, student composition, international exchange programs, etc. For me, one of the most interesting systems that Luskin School had was the requirement of 400 hours of internships, which made me reconsider the importance of applying what I have learnt in the classroom to the real world.

During the Lunch Time, active conversations could be seen everywhere. As UCLA students were planning to go to Tohoku the next day, I shared on the tragic earthquake and tsunami last year as well as the Japanese energy policy after Fukushima nuclear plant accident and the reconstruction of Tohoku area. Also, I gave some recommendations of the places in Tokyo where they can visit in their free time after the event.

Although time was limited, the event formed a strong relationship between the students from both side of the Pacific Ocean. Closing remarks by Akimi and Jessica clearly showed how the event was enjoyable and fruitful. I deeply appreciate those who organized the event and hope this wonderful international friendship could be further developed.