By: G. Vinuri Udeshi Perera
New seasons, new beginnings, and another new semester here at APU. But something’s different this time; we have a whole new type of classes to experience this semester. With Covid-19 showing very few signs of dying down soon, APU has been working hard to make sure the students are still able to have a fruitful university experience.
So, as there are a whole lot of new things to experience at APU this semester, we’ve decided to ask some first-year students, both Japanese and international, how they’re settling into Beppu and what they think of Switch and Hybrid style classes.
Settling into Beppu
Settling into a strange new environment can be scary sometimes. International students say it took them from 2 weeks to 2 months to transition and adjust to life in a new country, with the help of their newfound friends who are in the same predicament. However, most students we talked to expressed that they have now come to enjoy Beppu and life at APU. Most students say they like Beppu as it is rich in nature and that the tranquillity makes them feel at ease.
"Especially for a university student who is just beginning her life in a foreign country, the best thing about Beppu is the amount of nature in town and surrounding it." said a first-year from Kenya.
On the other hand, some Japanese students told us that they feel that there are very few places to hang out in comparison to their own hometowns, but are enjoying Beppu nevertheless. (The answer to this, I believe, lies in a little exploring. If you're new, why not try the tried and true hangout sites like Joyfull and BSB?)
Hybrid and Switch Classes
So, now that we've sort of settled in, let's talk about classes. This semester, APU is offering two types of classes; Hybrid and Switch, both a totally new experience to first-year students. Those who we spoke to say that they prefer in-person classes to online classes for a few reasons, mainly being that it's easier to concentrate when in class. Furthermore, it seems that it is easier to connect with the professors and fellow classmates in in-person classes.
"It's easier to concentrate during in-person classes because when taking online classes it just feels like I'm watching TV. When I'm in class, I feel that the professors are speaking to us which is better than just looking at a screen." said a first-year from Yokohama.
"I want to go to campus each week if possible because it's easier to make friends." Added a first-year from Fukuoka.
Adjusting to a New Environment: Just a Few Tips
For any new students interested in tips for getting used to a new environment, here are some tips that have been recommended by senpais.
Talk to your RAs. They're here to help.
Be prepared for the weather. Here at APU, the winters can be extremely cold and the wind could probably knock you down.
Talk with friends and floormates, interact with them as much as possible. Cook together and have fun.
Explore Beppu. Go to onsen, restaurants and cafes. Familiarise yourself with your new town.
So, this has been the outcome of our conversations with a few first years. If you're a first-year yourself, why not try out some of our tips. And if none of that works, ice cream always helps. Hope everyone has a great semester!
Image Sources: https://admissions.apu.ac.jp/apply_online/
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/jr-kyushu-student-pass-report-a-gourmet-adventure/