Introduction to the Journey
[Music] My name is Kieran, what’s your name? My name is Maya Kage. When you first made it through this University, were you very happy, and was that like a celebration?
The Joy of Admission
Yes, I was very happy because I didn’t think that I could pass to the University of Tokyo. So yeah, I was very surprised and happy. And was it like a celebration? Yeah, supplies, it’s more than me.
Aspirations for Studying Abroad
In the future, do you have any aspirations of studying abroad? Yes. And if so, what countries would you consider? Australia. Oh really, awesome! You know, Jess and I are from Australia. Well, yeah, yeah, so please welcome, yes, anytime. So why Australia? I think Australia has a beautiful city and nature, so yeah, I want to go.
The Study Routine
Fair enough. How hard do you have to study every day to make it to this University? In the whole day, I study more than 12 hours. On school days, I always study five or six hours. So after school, after you go home, another five or six hours? Yes, yes. And right now? Right now, it’s holidays. Holidays, I study for about 11 or 12. Wow, that’s a long time. I know it’s a long time to study.
The Admission Process
Was it difficult to get to this University in terms of admission? So you have to write a proposal, figure out what kind of research you want to do in this University, and talk to the professors. There’s an interview to get approval, and you also have to pass the test held by the graduate school. It’s kind of a written test and oral test.
Comparing Tests
How does that test compare to the tests in China? Easy. Yeah, I think the competition in China is quite fierce, so I decided to come to Japan. The test is so easy for me.
Test Specifics
Was it like a general ability test or more specific on Neuroscience? It’s like biological test questions, just like the normal test in the university in China. But I have to answer it in English or Japanese. I chose English, and that was the hard part. Remembering all the biological vocabulary was tough, but I like Neuroscience, so I spent one month studying and remembering these words.
Balancing Studies and Extracurriculars
How hard was it to get into this University? Well, I actually studied quite a lot. I was also playing handball in high school and chess as a hobby. These were club activities at my high school until the end of year two. I was a bit late compared to others, so it was quite challenging for me.
Family Support and Celebrations
Did your parents and family celebrate when you got admitted? Yes, they were very happy. It was a “well done” moment, with a little bit of money and freedom.
The Intense Study Period
I’m sure you studied extremely hard in the year leading to the test. Especially in January and February, I just studied. Literally, the whole day was just studying. I told myself that these few months would be the months I study the most in my life. If I didn’t give 100%, I’d regret it.
Challenges in Different Subjects
How hard was it to make it here? It was really hard. I lived in America, so I didn’t have a hard time with English, but math was tough. Even for literature, you have to do math. That was hard for me.
Postgraduate Admission
Was it difficult to get into Tokyo University for postgrad? For postgrad, the most important thing is your experience in the major you’re going to study. I had research experience in batteries, so I got into a lab with the same research area. Professors here like students with scientific experience.
Job Prospects After Graduation
Do you think it’ll be difficult to find a job after graduating? Tokyo University is the best university in Japan, so it’s not difficult to find a job. But for foreigners, it’s harder due to the language barrier. Japanese industries prefer local students as it’s easier to communicate with them.
Future Plans
Would you consider staying here after graduation or going back to China? I’m still confused about my future work, but if I get a chance to work here, I’ll consider it.
The Competitive Job Market
After graduation, is it easy to find a job? I don’t think so. The competition is tough, and you need special skills to stand out in the job market.
Conclusion
The journey to Tokyo University is filled with challenges, intense study routines, and moments of celebration. While the future holds uncertainties, the experience of studying at one of Japan’s top universities is undoubtedly rewarding.
