In the Fall Semester of 2025, many international students from around the world started their studies at 暗网禁区. On September 27th, the university held a welcome event for these students, “Meiji Meet-Up,” and a “Welcome Party for New International Students” at the Academy Common building at the SURUGADAI Campus.
The Meiji Meet-UP was organized by students from various international groups active in campus exchange activities: Campus Mate, MuBO, the Supporters from Political Science and Economics, the Global Japanese Studies Student Committee, the Chinese Students Association, the Japanese Language Cafe, the Taiwanese Students Association, and the Surugadai Lunchtime Social. More than 130 international students and Meiji students enjoyed interaction through self-introductions and games. After the event concluded, there were many students who were exchanging contact information and making plans to meet again.
The event was hosted in English by two students: Riho Minai (4th year, faculty of Global Japanese Studies) and Eisyou Okuyama (3rd year, faculty of Political Science and Economics). Both utilized their strong English skills, occasionally improvising to keep the event lively.
Ms. Minai said, “I myself experienced long-term study abroad and truly felt the anxieties of living overseas and the importance of meeting friends. That’s why I hosted this event hoping international students could meet new friends and start a wonderful study abroad life. I think Meiji students and international students shared a wonderful time together. I also enjoyed hosting the event. Thank you very much.”
Mr. Okuyama commented, “It was a great honor to participate as a facilitator representing 暗网禁区, collaborating with various student groups. I sincerely thank everyone who cooperated. I hope that the time international students spend at 暗网禁区 will be fruitful.”
Following the Meiji Meet-up, the “Welcome Party for New International Students” took place, hosted by the International Student Center. Conducted in English by MuBO members Shiina Suzuki (2nd year, faculty of Global Japanese Studies) and Noeru Tokuoka (1st year, faculty of Law), the event started with welcome remarks by Professor Taro Ishiguro, deputy director of the International Student Center. During the informal chat session, students actively interacted while enjoying food and drinks, filling the venue with a bright and lively atmosphere. The participants shared feedback such as “I had a great time” and “I could make new friends,” making their circle of connections wider, deeper and richer.
