Ms Natsuki Sumita (completed EU Studies Undergraduate Diploma Programme in Spring 2025)
■Affiliation at the time of completion of the programme: School of Law, Kyushu University *Completed the programme before graduation
For those considering applying to the EU-DPs, the key benefit I gained from undertaking it was that it sparked my interest in the EU. I myself first saw the EU-DPs leaflet during my second-year guidance session at the School of Law. As many courses in the School of Law were relatively compatible with the EU-DPs requirements, I decided to enroll. During my second year, I also participated in the EU Study Tour*, visiting EU institutions at the heart of EU politics and economics, such as the European Parliament and the European Central Bank. The EU is an organization established by smaller European nations uniting during an era dominated by major powers like Russia and the United States. Its approach to engaging with other countries differs entirely from that of Japan, and learning about its political, economic, and cultural development and communication was consistently fascinating and refreshing. Regarding the European Central Bank in particular, I was struck by the distinctiveness of its role: it makes policy decisions considering each country’s political and economic situation, stabilizes the value of the common currency, the euro, and operates independently from governments.
Upon completing the EU-DPs, I thought that when I eventually take up a job involving engagement with Europe, these events might feel somewhat familiar. I believe that building knowledge about the EU during the university years is an opportunity to broaden one’s horizons. Regardless of the career path chosen later, the experiences and knowledge gained during university will serve as a driving force and hold great significance.
I am delighted to have completed this programme, which provided the catalyst for my interest in the EU. My sincere thanks to the staff at the EU Centre who supported me during the study tour and coursework.
*This EU study tour was offered as a Kyushu University AY 2024 course in the “EU 論実習セミナー” (English course title: “EU Study Tour”), which is part of General Subjects, KIKAN Education for Undergraduate Schools / Special Skill Development Courses, KIKAN Education for Graduate Schools (EU-DPs designated course).