Keio University

Interviews with Current Students

Student Perspectives on FIT Admissions

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  FIT admissions seeks to achieve an optimal “fit” between Faculty of Law faculty members and students who have chosen the Faculty of Law at Keio University as their first choice and are eager to learn there.

Rather than relying on uniform evaluation criteria, FIT admissions emphasizes an applicant’s individual abilities and experiences. We spoke with current students who were admitted through this process and are now leading fulfilling university lives at the Faculty of Law.  

Why did you apply to the Faculty of Law at Keio University?

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Student S, First-year student, Department of Political Science

Iwate Prefectural Ichinoseki Daiichi High School graduate

Student K

I was particularly drawn to the Faculty of Law’s philosophy of cultivating individuals who are both specialists and generalists. I believed I could apply the broad education gained from foreign language and humanities subjects—along with the specialized knowledge from the unique learning opportunities at Faculty of Law—to any field in the future.

Student T

I chose the Faculty of Law for its comprehensive curriculum and flexibility. I believe that true achievement comes from thoroughly mastering the fundamentals. I believe that establishing a solid foundation during the first and second years is what turns knowledge into something truly reliable and enduring.

Student J

I felt I could broaden my perspective by studying languages, natural sciences, and the humanities while deepening my legal knowledge. I feel that the philosophy of cultivating distinctive students who have a second field of specialization in addition to their major is truly embodied here.

Student S

I wanted to international security, international political theory, and international relations, and to absorb the advanced knowledge of professors who are active on the global stage. The opportunity to study comprehensive, cross-disciplinary knowledge across a wide range of academic fields, in addition to specialized expertise, was also extremely appealing.

Why did you decide to apply through FIT admissions?

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Student K, First-year student, Department of Political Science

Konan Girls' High School graduate

Student K

I thought that the FIT admissions process would evaluate, in a comprehensive and multi-faceted way, the efforts I had made throughout high school, including academics, club activities, and extracurricular experiences. Another reason I chose the FIT admissions process was that I believed it would allow me to proactively communicate my future vision—specifically, my desire to pursue a form of learning that is only possible at Keio University.

Student T

I believe the appeal of the FIT admissions process lies in how easily applicants can convey their passion for their chosen path. While a baseline level of academic ability is of course required, I chose the FIT admissions process because I felt it allowed me to directly express my strong desire to study at Keio University’s Faculty of Law.

Student J

I belonged to the baton twirling club in high school and competed in national tournaments many times, so I felt that the FIT admissions process was the one that would truly allow me to make use of that experience.

Student S

I understood that the FIT admissions process values a student’s individuality rather than just academic ability or test scores, and I felt it would allow me to effectively showcase my experience living abroad as well as my achievements in prefectural and national competitions through club activities.

How did you prepare?

Student K

In my statement of purpose and interviews, I focused on how to clearly and concretely convey what I had worked hard on and what only I could do.

Student T

I focused on clarifying what I truly wanted to do. I rewrote my statement of purpose until I was fully satisfied and carefully read the brochures. For those who are able to, I think it’s important to actually visit the university campus. I believe what really matters is whether you can develop a strong conviction within yourself that you want to go to Keio University.

How did you spend your high school years?

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Student J, First-year student, Department of Law

Aichi Shukutoku High School graduate

Student J

I had baton twirling club practice six days a week, from morning until night. It was very difficult to secure time for studying, but I was able to have the valuable experience of competing in national competitions, so I consider those three years to be a very important part of my life.

Student S

When I was in junior high school, I lived in Australia for two years due to my parent’s work. In high school, I joined the English debate club and participated in various domestic competitions. In addition, I read many books to expand my knowledge, and continued to focus on my English studies after returning to Japan, striving not to lose my fluency.

What is your university life like?

Student K

My first year at university was really fulfilling and intense. While focusing on my specialized studies, I was also able to take liberal arts and foreign language subjects, which allowed me to gain a broad range of knowledge. I grew through the learning gained from the highly flexible course registration unique to the Department of Political Science, as well as new relationships and encounters with different environments, which contributed greatly to my personal growth.

Student T

I am taking an intensive German course. I had never been exposed to German before, but I became interested after learning that many everyday words have German origins. I recommend the intensive course because it allows you to develop stronger language skills and engage in internationally diverse interactions.

What are your dreams for the future?

Student K

I am interested in the initiatives of individuals and companies that address global social issues. I want to play a part in creating an environment where more people can see the challenges of environmental problems and conflicts as issues relevant to their own lives.

Student T

My dream is to become an announcer. After broadening my own perspective, I want to speak out to prevent sad events from recurring and connect with the people on the other side of the screen. Through a career in broadcasting, I hope to help enrich people’s daily lives.

Student J

I am considering a career in the legal profession. Although I know it will be a challenging path, I found it very appealing after listening to lawyers and prosecutors speak at my university. I want to become a lawyer who is a strong advocate for women.

Student S

My dream is to become a diplomat. At university, I want to enhance my skills to solve global-scale issues with a global perspective.

Could you say a few final words to high school students?

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Student T, First-year student, Department of Law

Miyazaki Omiya High School graduate

Student K

I think you will inevitably hit a wall when studying for entrance exams. When that happens, look back on all the hard work you’ve done and your future goals, and find that one thing that makes you say, “This is it!” I believe what matters most is not whether it’s big or small, but that it was something only you could accomplish.

Student T

To all high school students: to me, a university is, quite literally, a place for learning on a grand scale. It’s not so much about what is right or wrong. What is unique to a university is its capacity to gather a wide range of ideas and the openness to embrace them. Keio University offers exactly that kind of environment, along with many peers who share the same spirit. Let’s expand our learning together at Keio University!