Student Voices 2027 #004 Faculty of Law, Department of Political Science

While attending open campuses at various universities, I experienced the fascination of law through a mock lecture in a Faculty of Law and decided I wanted to study it. On the other hand, I could not let go of my interest in political science due to my experience living abroad and my interest in international politics sparked by world history classes.

When I was struggling to choose between the two fields, I discovered the Department of Political Science on the Keio University website, which offers a wealth of international politics classes while still requiring core law subjects. I was strongly drawn to an environment where I could study both law and international politics, and I decided to apply to Keio University.

Since my third year, I have belonged to a seminar (kenkyukai) on American politics, where I receive intensive guidance that was unavailable in high school, such as active discussions in small groups and individual meetings with the professor. I am glad I joined the seminar because it has helped me develop the ability to formulate my own questions and proceed with research, while also expanding my circle of friends.

Furthermore, because I can also take classes from the Department of Law, I study international law throughout the spring and fall semesters. In the International Law Seminar during the spring semester, I took a class themed "Considerations from the Perspective of Diplomatic Practice" taught by an active diplomat. Not only can I pursue my interest in law to the fullest, but I can also meet and challenge myself alongside friends with similar interests.

The faculty is home to many leading experts in their respective fields. I often come across them while reading the newspaper, and in class, I sometimes hear their views on domestic and international political news that is updated daily. I feel proud to be able to learn in such a blessed environment.

I also believe that student diversity is one of our strengths. You can interact with people from a wide variety of backgrounds—returnees, students from rural areas, students from Keio's affiliated schools, members of clubs or the Athletic Association, and those working hard on off-campus activities—which is incomparable to the social circles I had up through high school. Student life spent while being exposed to new values is very stimulating.

Having belonged to the hard tennis club in high school, I continue to play tennis in a circle at university. Since Keio University has many university-authorized tennis circles, you can choose the one that suits you best. I also belong to a study group circle. This is a student organization where members study diplomacy, law, and civil service exams; in addition to study sessions, it organizes various events such as visits to law firms, central government ministries, and embassies, as well as lectures.

Studying for entrance exams is tough, but an environment where you will feel glad you worked hard is waiting for you on the other side. Please examine your options carefully and find a university and faculty you truly want to attend. I would be very happy if that choice is the Department of Political Science in the Keio University Faculty of Law.

This article was published in the university guide "Guidebook 2027" for prospective students.

The latest guidebook is available as a PDF or digital pamphlet. Please check the "Guidebook" webpage.