申し訳ありません、このコンテンツはただ今 English のみです。
What was your purpose in enrolling in GraSPP?
I enrolled in GraSPP to study subjects practical for my career as a Civil Servant in Singapore. I appreciated that the curriculum offers a good mix of subjects, ranging from economics to law and electives that broadened my perspectives on crucial public sector topics.
What was attractive or stimulating about GraSPP?
GraSPP was attractive to me because of the opportunity to learn from both distinguished academics and experienced practitioners. The student population at GraSPP is highly diverse, comprising a variety of nationalities and life experiences, which creates a rich melting pot of cultures and perspectives. I have personally gained tremendously by learning from the myriad perspectives which this diversity brings about.
Please share your memorable experiences/courses in GraSPP
I want to share five of my favourite academic experiences at GraSPP.
I was privileged to learn from Professor Aoki, a public administration and public management expert who brought her subject to life in the classroom. Her classes were highly interactive and enjoyable, making learning a pleasure. As my thesis supervisor, Professor Aoki generously shared her wisdom, helping me deepen my understanding of her field of expertise and greatly enriching my learning experience. Despite the numerous challenges I faced while writing my thesis, her guidance and support helped me overcome these obstacles. Thank you, Professor Aoki, for believing in me despite my clumsiness.
The Campus Asia course was another highlight of my GraSPP experience. Professor Hattori graciously arranged for us to visit the Bank of Japan and interact with officials from the Ministry of Finance. Coincidentally, these field-trips helped me enhance my understanding of Macroeconomics, as I was also taking the Macroeconomics for Public Policy course at the same time. This was a valuable opportunity to synergise my learning across two classes and allowed me to see macroeconomic topics from multiple perspectives.
Professor Orsi’s Introduction to Social Science, taught as an intensive class, made for intellectually stimulating Saturdays. Through his intense delivery of the content (pun intended), Professor Orsi’s classes showcased his mastery of the material – and I soon found myself thoroughly enjoying every moment, despite being in a classroom on a Saturday.
Professor Lawson’s Introduction to Japanese Law class was intellectually challenging but immensely rewarding. While the readings were numerous and complex, Professor Lawson was always supportive – ready to answer our questions and highlight how we could better maximise our learning. If anything, my Christmas present for 2024 was the privilege of studying under such an accomplished academic.
In the Public-Private Partnerships course, Professor Nishizawa provided us with a valuable opportunity to work with external clients. The courses provided us with a real-world context to sharpen our problem-solving skills and helped us create practical solutions that addressed real-world problems.
These are but five of the highly educational and enjoyable courses which I was privileged to take while at GraSPP. With the wide variety of courses available at both GraSPP and across the University of Tokyo, there is undoubtedly something for everyone.
In your opinion, what is the advantage of studying in Japan?
Beyond the obvious advantages of safety, cleanliness, and the fantastic cuisine, studying in Japan provided me with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Japan. Being a GraSPP student allowed me to understand Japan’s perspectives and priorities, and I find this insider’s view to be the most valuable takeaway from my time here. These sensitivities, both cultural and academic, require significant lengths of time to nurture – this quality incubation time is precisely what these two years have provided.
Could you tell us about your career journey since graduation?
I have since joined the Singaporean Civil Service and am working at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information.
Looking back, what kind of place or time was GraSPP for you?
My two years at GraSPP were filled with much learning and friendship – thank you to my friends, professors, and the GraSPP staff for making these past two years incredibly enjoyable. I am privileged to have been advised, supported, and nurtured by so many accomplished individuals. Over many Teishoku lunches, café hangouts, and little road trips, the friends I’ve made at GraSPP have made my time in Japan unforgettable. While I may have come to Tokyo alone, I leave with a great yearning to meet all my friends once more.
Any advice or comments for the latest students?
During the semester, it is essential to pace yourself appropriately. Speak with your professors, friends, and seniors to understand what type of deliverables your courses might require of you. Space them apart where possible, so that you can deliver your best performance over your two years at GraSPP. Also, at the end of your first year, don’t forget to check that you’re on track to clear all your compulsory credits!
At the end of each term, it is equally important to enjoy yourself outside of the classroom. The beauty of our academic calendar lies in its provision of numerous options for pursuing a wide range of activities. During your vacations, you might want to pursue an internship or travel around Japan (those 47 prefectures won’t be exploring themselves) – either way, you’ll find yourself marvelling at the possibilities open to you.
Cherish your time at GraSPP – you’ll find that time really flies here.
