How did Cambridge International A Levels prepare you for university?
Cambridge International A Levels prepared me well for university by giving me strong academic skills and helping me become more disciplined. The challenging curriculum let me explore each subject in depth, especially mathematics.
Cambridge International A Levels also taught me to manage my time well. With a lot of material to study and strict deadlines, I learned to plan my time carefully and focus on the most important tasks. This skill has been really useful in helping me keep up with my university work. Aside from that, the topic coverage in A Levels goes over the first year of university, so that really helped lessen the load while I eased into living in a foreign country.
Why did you decide to study in Japan?
I decided to study in Japan after visiting the country on holiday in 2019. I fell in love with Japan's clean, organised environment, and it felt like the perfect distance from home. The university curriculum here seemed interesting, and there were many scholarship opportunities. Kyushu University’s new campus, the largest in Japan, is surrounded by beautiful nature, which I thought would be a great place to relax after studies. Ultimately, receiving a full-ride scholarship made my decision to come here final. My course is an international programme and is taught in English.
How have you settled into university in Japan?
Life as an international student in Japan has been great, especially because of the amazing food! At Kyushu University, international students are required to take Japanese language courses during the first three semesters, which has helped me adjust gradually. While there’s a noticeable cultural barrier between Japanese and international students, it becomes a normal part of daily life over time and feels easier to navigate as you get used to it.
What new opportunities has studying in Japan opened up for you?
Studying in Japan has opened up several new opportunities for me. I’ve had the chance to interact with students from many different cultures, which has broadened my perspective. Being here has also allowed me to connect more deeply with my Indonesian culture, as I often represent it within the international community in Japan. Additionally, my Japanese language skills have improved, allowing me to communicate more effectively and feel more integrated into daily life here.
Cambridge has launched a new Cambridge IGCSE Japanese as a foreign language qualification. How do you think this will benefit students?
I think it will be a fantastic stepping stone for students who want to study in Japan. Learning the language early on will make it much easier to adapt to daily life and navigate common situations, like asking for directions, ordering food, or understanding local signs and announcements. When I first moved here, I encountered a few challenges due to language barriers, so having a foundation in Japanese would have helped me feel more confident.
Beyond language, the Cambridge IGCSE course will also give students a valuable introduction to Japanese culture, helping them understand social norms and cultural expectations, which can make a big difference in adjusting smoothly to life in Japan.
What advice would you give to other Cambridge students who are considering applying to university in Japan?
For Cambridge students considering university in Japan, I’d recommend learning as much Japanese as possible beforehand. Even basic language skills can make a big difference in your daily life and help you feel more comfortable in a new environment.
It’s also important to research the curriculum and degree courses carefully to make sure they align with your academic interests and career goals. Japanese university programmes can be unique, so knowing if the course structure matches what you're looking for is essential.
Finally, think about your long-term goals—whether you want to focus on academic research, prepare for a corporate job, or explore another path. Japan offers diverse opportunities, but having a clear goal will help you make the most of your university experience.
What are your career plans after university?
After university, I’m still exploring my options. I’m looking forward to gaining more lab experience to see if I’m more drawn to research or hands-on applications. I’m particularly interested in the semiconductor industry, and with TSMC opening a new plant in Kumamoto, Japan, I’m excited to explore potential career opportunities in this field here in Japan.