Turning Setbacks into Strength: Bringing More Joy to People’s Lives

Q. Why did you choose the Faculty of Humanities?

I’ve always loved English and once dreamed of becoming a teacher. I wanted to share the joy of communicating through language with as many people as possible.

To me, teaching is a profession that can enrich people’s lives. Sophia’s strong focus on English education made it an ideal place to study the language, its history, and how it is taught. That’s why I chose the Department of English Literature. I was also attracted by the university’s international environment and diverse academic opportunities.

Q. What were you most involved in during your time at university?

The two things I devoted most of my time to were the teacher-training program and educational support activities.

The teacher-training program was demanding, with extensive coursework, assignments, and long-term requirements. To support one another, we built a community within the program, sharing information and helping each other stay on track. Looking back, it felt like everyone was putting Sophia’s educational philosophy, “For Others, With Others,” into practice.

I also took on a coordinating role at the request of a professor. Through those experiences, I came to see leadership as creating an environment where everyone can do their best. I later served as a student leader during a short-term study-abroad program in the UK.

Another focus for me was educational support. I joined a student-run NPO and also worked on a local government program providing career education and academic support for students from financially disadvantaged households. Alongside teaching, I helped run the program. During my time there, the number of students grew from around 20 to nearly 100, and university enrollment rates improved as well. Through these experiences, I came to value supporting people from their perspective and becoming someone they could turn to.

Q. How did you overcome the challenges you faced?

I’ve always been curious and quick to take action. That led me to get involved in a wide range of activities, from the teacher-training program to NPO work.

At the same time, changes in my family circumstances meant that I needed to support myself financially while attending university. With the help of scholarships, I worked part-time jobs to cover my living expenses while continuing to pursue new challenges. I also worked at clothing stores and electronics retailers with many international customers, which helped to improve my language skills.

Looking back, I was able to get through those busy years because of the people who supported me and the friends who encouraged me along the way. Just as important was my determination to follow through on everything I chose to take on.

Q. Why did you choose Oriental Land instead of becoming a teacher?

What mattered most to me was creating memorable experiences and bringing more joy to people’s lives. I went through some difficult experiences growing up, and felt that Oriental Land would be a place where I could help create an environment where everyone can smile. I was also drawn to the company’s commitment to creating happiness through outstanding guest experiences.

Another reason was the strong connection I saw between the company’s values and the educational support activities I had been involved in. Oriental Land is committed not only to its guests, but also to contributing to future generations and society as a whole.

I participated in internships at more than ten companies, but what stood out most was the warmth of the people I met at Oriental Land. Their ability to listen, support one another, and genuinely care about others made a lasting impression on me.

Q. How did you make use of the Career Center?

The first time I attended a mock interview session, I was told, “At this rate, you won’t make it.” I hadn’t been able to communicate my experiences or passion effectively. This was a true wake-up call. After that, I became a regular at the Career Center, seeking advice and practicing for interviews. I made a conscious effort to listen to feedback and put it into action.

One example was studying the integrated reports of the companies I was interested in. It helped me think more deeply about what I admired in each company and how I could contribute.

I kept that approach all the way through my final interviews. On reflection, I realized that humility and empathy have always been important to me. Recognizing that instilled the confidence to trust myself and be my authentic self during the search for employment.

Q. Any messages for current students?

No matter where you are or what challenges you’re facing, you can find opportunities anywhere. If there’s something you believe in, don’t give up on it halfway; see it through to the end.

When I was unsure about my future, I always returned to one core goal: bringing more joy and meaning to people’s lives. Following that goal helped me find my own path.

Most importantly, value the people around you. Everything I’ve accomplished has been possible because of the support of others. Growing alongside others helped me become the person I am today.

※Please note that the information in this article is current as of October 2025.