日本語訳はこちら

Mr. Theo Pach who is from Jena, Germany took willingly in this interview. He is mainly studying Japanese at Fukuoka University as an exchange student through the original programs of Faculty of Humanities. He was happy to share his impressions of his life here at Fukuoka University. 

−Why did you decide to come to Japan and choose Fukuoka University?
My friend, who has relatives in Japan, always told me about all the beautiful things to discover in Japan. It feel like Japan is pulling me towards it and, finally, I followed its call and my personal feelings. In addition, I focus on Linguistic Philosophy and I wanted to study a new Non-European language. While studying Japanese in Jena, most of people gave me the advice to go to Fukuoka because here is surrounded by nature and the people living  here are relaxed and happy.

−What is your interest of Japan/Fukuoka?
I'm interested in Japanese culture, philosophy and, most of all, it's religious. Outside of Japan, there is a big lack of knowledge about Shinto, even about Japanese Buddhism. In the beginning, I came to Japan  to explore shrines, temples and the Japanese attitude/ way of life. But then, thanks to my teachers and friends, I became able to speak Japanese better. Fukuoka is the perfect place for me to do the exchange with many religious sites (like Gion, Dazaifu, Nanzō-in) and I could experience Japanese traditions like Sadō, Kadō, Shodō in University circles. Instead of going home, I would like to stay even longer to meet more unique people in Japan. I don't want to go back to my country.

−After going back to your country, what would you like to do?
To support Japanese students during their own exchange, I will keep up my work as a "study buddy". As soon as possible I want to come back to Japan to do the Shikoku Pilgrimage and a temple stay at Eihei-ji. 

−What is International Exchange to you?
For me, an international exchange offers many different opportunities. Obviously, it's the easiest way to study a foreign language in a country, where you are surrunded by this language. But next to the language, it's the people, the culture, the differences and similarities that can change the view on the personality and the home country. Students who study abroad realize their capabilities, enhance their skills and develop a strong personality. Also, it is possible to meet other exchange students from around the globe, all of them having interesting stories to tell.

He told us that he is deeply enjoying his stay here, learning many new things about the Japanese language, culture and even about Europe. We hope these experiences in Japan will support him in his future. GOOD LUCK!!