◆About Konan University
Konan University is a private comprehensive university in Kobe with over 100 years of history. With 8 faculties, 14 departments, 1 interdisciplinary program, and 4 graduate schools, the university offers a wide range of academic disciplines, such as the Faculty of Letters, the Faculty of Science and Engineering, and the Faculty of Economics, allowing students to deepen their knowledge across various fields. The main Okamoto Campus is located in a lush, comfortable residential area, conveniently situated just about 20 minutes from Sannomiya and 30 minutes from Osaka.
With approximately 9,000 students, Konan University is committed to “small-group education where each student is known by name.” The small size of seminars and research groups fosters close communication between faculty and students, allowing for more attentive support of students’ growth and learning.
The campus is neither too large nor too small, providing a perfect balance. In recent years, the university has developed a new facility called “Konan Infinity Commons” (nicknamed “iCommons”), which features a cafeteria, club rooms, student lounges, a training room, and even a kitchen for student use, making it a multifunctional and well-equipped space. This facility has become a popular hub for student life.
So, what is it like to study and live at Konan University? To delve deeper into student life, we interviewed Wang Haoyu, an international student. Let’s explore the unique appeal of Konan University through the experiences of this current student!
◆Current Student Interview: Wang Haoyu, 2nd Year, Faculty of Letters, Department of History and Culture
Why did you choose to enroll in the Department of History and Culture at Konan University’s Faculty of Letters?
I had originally planned to study Japanese history at a university. Through a mock lecture during a web-based open campus event, I was captivated by the fact that the Arabian region shared a connection with Japan during the Mongol invasions. This new perspective rekindled my interest in history, and I felt that Konan University would offer me many learning opportunities. Additionally, the “Reki Labo” history lab activities were a key factor in my decision to enroll.
What kind of activities does Reki Labo involve?
In Reki Labo, students from the Department of History and Culture independently read and discuss documents like ancient manuscripts or modern historical materials on topics they are interested in. We also exchange materials and engage in discussions. We even visit locations as needed. It feels like a club activity, and it’s a lot of fun.
Moreover, Reki Labo is a truly free space. Students often propose and consult with teachers about themes they are interested in, and these ideas are frequently realized. I think this bottom-up learning environment is unique to Konan.
What are you currently studying?
I belong to a seminar where I focus on ancient and medieval history, specifically the history of armed monks known as “Sohei.” I also take courses on the history of Arabia and Europe, and I enjoy learning by comparing the histories of different regions.
Besides history, I’ve also taken courses in the Faculty of Economics. At Konan University, you can study various fields, which allows you to analyze history from different perspectives, and I think that’s really valuable.
What has it been like to study at Konan University?
I feel that I’ve become better at thinking about things from multiple angles and in a more three-dimensional way. The close relationship with teachers, who are almost like friends (*laughs*), makes it very easy to ask questions, and the teachers are always kind in their responses. I think this close relationship with teachers is something rare compared to other universities.
Additionally, the seminars in the faculty are relatively small, almost like graduate seminars, with about 10 to 20 people. I don’t think you often see undergraduate seminars with this small of a group.
What clubs are you involved in?
I’m part of the Antique Art Research Club, where we study various aspects of Japanese traditional culture and art. Each year, the students choose a theme and conduct research together. For example, last year’s theme was Buddhist statues. We visited museums and temples in Kyoto and Nara to observe the statues, comparing them with historical documents, which was incredibly enjoyable and informative.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
It has to be the Department of History and Culture’s library! I often read books there, have lunch, or interact with senior students from my department. I also frequently visit the university library and the study areas.
From Wang’s experiences, it’s clear that he thoroughly enjoys his life at Konan University, both academically and in extracurricular activities. The university’s commitment to small-group education, where each student is known by name, and the campus’s perfect layout that’s neither too large nor too small, allow it to finely support students’ academic and everyday needs. This is perhaps the greatest appeal of being a “medium-sized comprehensive university.”
◎Learn More About Wang’s Study Abroad Experience in Kobe!
“Fascinated by Japanese Tradition, Aspiring to Become a Researcher”