Study in Japan Fair (Suva, Fiji)

"Bula vinaka!
I’m Mere, a proud Fijian currently enjoying my first semester at APU in Beppu, Japan!"

How did you know about APU?
"My APU journey began when I first heard about the university from one of their amazing advisors who visited my school. Later, I saw APU again at the Study in Japan Fair at the Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva."

How was your experience at the Study in Japan Fair in Fiji in 2024?
"It was such a fun and eye-opening experience! There were Japanese games, cultural activities, and lots of laughter in the waiting room. I even picked up the word tanoshii (which means fun in Japanese!). The actual presentation featured helpful info from APU, JICA, and even alumni, which made it clear that Pacific Islanders can thrive in Japan."

How is life at APU so far?
"Now that I’m here, life in Beppu has been a whirlwind of adventure and learning. I’ve made friends from every corner of the globe, tasted dishes I’d never even heard of before, and even picked up some conversational phrases in languages beyond Japanese and English. I’m part of the APU Rugby Club and the Combat Sports Club, and I’ve also found a spiritual home with the FGOC church community downtown. University life isn’t easy—but when you know your why and keep God at the center of your journey, you’ll find the strength to keep going. APU has already changed my life, and I can’t wait to see where this road leads next!"

Do you have any advice for Fijians and other Pacific Islanders hoping to study at APU?
"At first, I was hesitant to apply—especially because of the application fee—but with my parents’ encouragement and faith, I took the leap. And honestly? Best decision ever. That small fee is nothing compared to the incredible scholarship APU offered me. The process is completely online and yes, it involves a mountain of paperwork, but trust me—it’s totally worth it. Of course, there are times when I miss my family, my dog, and—of course—Punjas biscuits! But in those moments, I remind myself that I’m here for a reason, and that God has a purpose for me in this season of my life. What really helps with the homesickness is the incredibly supportive and tight-knit Pacific Islander community here in Beppu. It’s like having a piece of home right here with me.”

"Bula vinaka!
My name is Hiromi Nawalu, I’m from Fiji and I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Sustainability and Tourism at APU."

How did you know about APU?
"I first learned about APU through my mother, who was a teacher at Marist Brothers High school and would help her students apply to study here. However, I found about the Study in Japan Fair in Fiji (2023) through a friend who saw the advertisement on Instagram and sent it to me. At the time I was looking for opportunities to try and apply for scholarships to study overseas and so my friend thought it would be a good idea to check out the workshop together."

How was your experience at the Study in Japan Fair in Fiji in 2023?
"I really loved the Fair, there was so much that drew me to APU just from the events from that day alone. The networking relationships that come with being a graduate of APU, their sustainability courses and getting to experience the Japanese culture and life here in Beppu. After attending the Fair, I started working on the application process and was super fortunate to have help from their admissions counselor.
The application can look a little difficult at first but it helps to stay on top of the deadlines and have someone you can contact if you have questions."

How is life at APU so far?
"Great! Beppu kind of reminds me of Suva, since it’s right by the sea. Living on campus is such a great experience, especially when it comes to making friends with students from various countries (APU has one of the biggest dormitory populations of international students in Japan). The food is great, there’s so much to learn about the way they do things here."

Do you have any advice for Fijians and other Pacific Islanders hoping to study at APU?
"Everything except for your courses wiil be in Japanese, so be sure to come mentally prepared to learn the language (it’s super rewarding, you won't regret it!). APU also has loads of extra curricular activities that you can participate in and have an enjoyable time while studying here.”

"Reflecting on my transformative journey at APU invokes a profound sense of gratitude. APU's commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow through a holistic approach to education is what attracted me to the university. At APU, I discovered a vibrant tapestry of cultures, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and cherished. Through immersive intercultural exchanges, I not only gained a deeper understanding of different perspectives but also developed invaluable skills in cross-cultural communication and collaboration. This environment develops students to be a conduit between cultures and I was able to participate in multiple extra-curricular activities including leading the annual Oceania Week multicultural week event, Kumon’s summer English Immersion Camp, and participating as part of the hip-hop dance group Arteographers. All these experiences alongside students from all corners of the globe further enriched the learning environment through the development of critical and innovative thinking, entrepreneurial spirit and resilience.

As a Rotuman lad from Fiji and a Pacific islander at heart, APU offers an opportunity for our people to truly realize their full potential and position ourselves at the key intersection between the Pacific and international community. In this critical time as the region battles climate change and geopolitical security, APU’s education is a difference maker and equips us with the tools and mindset to tackle these complex challenges of the modern world.

However, the fondest of memories will always be the informal exchanges over yangnyeom chicken and rice from the food truck with classmates, freezing in the cold winter rain while lining up for the bus to town and the candid conversations with the ojisan (uncle) from the vegetable market near Beppu Station."

"As I reminisce about my days of being an international student in a foreign land, miles away from family and friends, I truly give thanks for such an opportunity. I know it wasn't by chance but I believe that it was a blessing from God's hands. I'm deeply grateful for the sacrificial love of my family, without which I would never have made it to Japan.

APU brought the world closer to me, I could meet, learn, study and eat with people from all ends of the earth. My journey met rough seas but I didn't face those seas alone. Rough seas are part of the journey but they're never meant to be faced alone.

Thankfully, I found a community of people (Full Gospel Oita Church, FGOC) who genuinely cared for and empowered me through thick and thin to keep moving forward. I've grown to love Beppu, Oita. My journey in this land continues. I'm living and working in Oita, helping to raise up the next generation (in the area of education) whilst also serving at the local church, FGOC which has become my home away from home."

"Beyond cultural exchange, APU's commitment to instilling the values of inclusivity and social responsibility was evident during a field study I joined on Society and Persons With Disabilities (PWD) in Japan. This experience was deeply impactful as it allowed me to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Engaging with PWDs not only expanded my perspective but also instilled in me a sense of empathy and advocacy for marginalized communities. It was truly inspirational to witness these athletes, engineers, and young students make the impossible possible. I am truly thankful for this and have fond recollections of this time, especially being able to play a great game of wheelchair basketball.

Moreover, one of the most remarkable aspects of studying at APU has been the opportunity to learn from students and teachers from all corners of the globe. I was a member of two student-led organizations: the Academic Office's ALRCS and the Oceania Students Association (OSA). Both taught me how to become a human bridge for my country and the world. Whether it was working on group projects with classmates and teachers from Japan, Micronesia, the Philippines, or Iran, APU gave me the chance to experience learning that transcends borders. Even the shortest of encounters with the local community such as a conversation with a grandmother sitting next to me in the bus have become precious memories."

"Kaselehlioa and Konnichiwa! My name is Gillian and I am from the Federated States of Micronesia. In this journey, I have embraced experiences as an important process towards growth. Embracing the unknown has become a word of prayer in my life—high-flying opportunities even in the lows. The fresh cultural tapestry of Beppu, and indeed Japan, with its hot springs and other breathtaking sceneries, has served as a fresh reminder of the beauty that lies within diversity. APU, in particular, has symbolized the melting pot of ideas and innovations, where each voice has a chance, and each dream is encouraged. The friendships I have made there with people who came from the farthest corners of the world have been priceless to me. Such ties have shown me the meaning of genuine empathy and understanding and annihilated barriers I had no idea existed.

As my time here progresses, I find myself more adaptable, open-minded, and ready to tackle whatever comes my way. The experiences both in and out of the classroom were glimpses of a future in which the world presented itself as a confidently navigable place. To all of those who would follow, I'd say: leap into the adventure with your heart wide open. The challenges look gigantic, yet for sure lie rewards of personal growth, lifelong friendships, and invaluable insights. This experience has been one not of academic achievement, but indeed a journey of self-discovery, for which I am the most grateful.”

As an international student learning in Japan, Beppu to be precise, living in AP House has been a great experience. I have been able make new friends, learn Japanese by applying them in the conversations I have with my mates,etc. There is also a socio-cultural environment, where you will be able to interact with other people and even build a forever connection with other people. As a new student, living in AP House is super convenient and welcoming. You get to go to the library at night to study and attend classes close by. Living in AP House will also prepare you to live in Beppu and its environment. This is because, the school helps with all the registration processes and helps you with documents so you know what to do when you move out. Also, some basic language that you will learn that is actually going to save your life when shopping, at the bank etc. There has been several experiences in AP house but I would say, I really loved the House Event held on each floor. It was a great experience to meet all my floor members and eat with them. Our RAs had us play games where each member won gifts such as books, pens, bus tickets, food, etc. We also got the chance to take cute pictures in groups and made memories. Through this house event, I have made myself a Japanese name; Watanabe (わたなべ)

Recipient of 100% APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship

Regarding the scholarship I received from APU, it plays a main role in helping me financially, which made it possible for me to study at APU without any concern about the financial issues that I might have in paying the tuition and living expenses, enabling me to focus on academic life even more. Additionally, it became my motivation to study hard every day to be suitable for the scholarship from the first day I knew about it and further became one of the main factors that pushed me to pursue my dream of finding new knowledge both academically and in life, along with seeking a unique experience and culture in this new place called Japan.

Recipient of 100% APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship

As the economy world over was and still is hard hit by COVID-19, among many other happenings, it was really daunting for me when it came to applying to universities not fully knowing how my family would be able to afford the fees involved. Getting admitted to and receiving the tuition reduction scholarship at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University was and remains a great blessing. Currently in my second year, I have had the opportunity to learn another language, experience not only the Japanese culture, but also many others; learn from great professors while in such a unique and culturally diverse community. It is such a dream come true. I will forever be sincerely grateful for it.

Recipient of 100% APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship

I would like to thank Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University for awarding me with the APU Tuition Reduction Scholarship Award for the cohort of Fall 2020. I grew up in a household where neither my grandparents nor parents attended university. Nonetheless, it was assumed, from the start, that I would be the first in the family to attend higher education, moreover, overseas at that. Thus, this opportunity was all the more meaningful to them and me in fulfilling this expectation and desire. Through this scholarship, I was able to pursue my studies through and despite the challenges of the pandemic. I feel that with the scholarship, I am able to confidently explore the range of opportunities available at APU; from taking APS subjects that interest me, to joining the American Sign Language club, volunteering at an animal shelter, and taking part in the overseas student exchange program, a long time dream.

The reason I recommend AP House is that you will be able to experience the culture of many different countries. In AP House, the kitchen, shower room, and washing machine are all shared. My favorite part is the kitchen. In the kitchen, there is a space to eat together, so you can share your meals with other international students. I believe that I have been able to make friends with many international students because of the shared kitchen. So far, I have enjoyed many cuisines from different countries. For example, “the real” Indian curry cooked by a friend from India, tomato pasta from Italy, chicken adobo, which is the comfort food from the Philippines, and Myanmar-style fried noodles. Cooking with a friend from an international student not only allows you to become friends with them but also to enjoy food from many different countries! I believe that food is an important way to strengthen bonds with people, regardless of nationality. Please enjoy the cuisine of different countries when you join APU!