VOICES
ACE Inbound Exchange Student 2025 Spring
Mr. Lim Heng Yi
Home University: National University of Singapore
A Semester of Learning, Laughter, and Local Discoveries at Rikkyo!
Participating in the ACE Program at Rikkyo University has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. The program offered a unique blend of rigorous learning and interactive teaching methods. I enrolled in the Cubic Curriculum course, Business Communication, taught by Professor Fowler, which left a strong impression on me. The course emphasized practical skills such as negotiation, game theory, and strategies for building competitive advantage. Rather than relying on conventional lectures or class slides, the sessions were conducted in an engaging and discussion-driven style. This unique format challenged us to think critically, exchange perspectives openly, and build arguments in real time. It not only deepened my understanding of the subject matter but also strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively with peers from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds.
Beyond this, I also appreciated the wide range of courses offered in English. I had the chance to take classes across different faculties such as Japanese Arts, Finance, Bilingualism Studies, and Health Science, which exposed me to disciplines outside my main field of study. This interdisciplinary variety enriched my academic experience, as I could draw connections between seemingly divergent perspectives. It broadened the way I think about problem-solving and gave me a more holistic approach to learning.
Life in Japan as part of the ACE Program was equally enriching. Rikkyo University and the ACE program team provided a welcoming and supportive environment that made it easy to adapt to a new culture. The vibrant campus offered many opportunities to connect with both international and Japanese students. Platforms such as the Global Lounge, the language exchange program, and the buddy program encouraged us to engage with one another in meaningful ways. I also joined a badminton student circle, which became a highlight of my time at Rikkyo. The circle not only allowed me to continue a sport I enjoy but also gave me the chance to bond with Japanese students outside the classroom. Practices and casual matches often turned into moments of laughter and shared learning, and the friendships I built there became some of the most memorable parts of my exchange. These initiatives and experiences helped me feel less like a visitor and more like part of a genuine community.
Outside the classroom, I enjoyed exploring Tokyo, a city where tradition and modernity coexist so seamlessly. Everyday experiences from navigating the train system to discovering local cuisine were moments of learning in their own right. On weekends, I also took the opportunity to travel beyond Tokyo to other parts of Japan. These trips allowed me to connect what I learned in class to the history, stories, and people I encountered in different regions, enriching my understanding of Japan as a whole.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to take part in the ACE Program. It has broadened both my academic and personal horizons, equipping me with valuable skills, intercultural experiences, and unforgettable memories that I will carry into my future studies and career.