Student Interview with Zehra Gulen | ISI Japanese Language School

Zehra Gulen

From Turkey
Tokyo-Shinjuku Campus

Chiba University
Department of Forensic Toxicology
Admitted

Hello! Could you please introduce yourself?: Hello, everyone. My name is Zehra Gulen, and I'm from Turkey. I enjoy listening to music, traveling, and taking photographs in my free time. During my undergraduate studies, I majored in Biology at Istanbul University in Turkey.
Why did you choose to study in Japan?: I had always been interested in Japanese culture and language. At the same time, I wanted to continue studying in Japan and gain more international experience while working here in the future. Therefore, I decided to come to Japan after graduation and study abroad.
Do you remember your first day in Japan? How did you feel at the time?: Of course, I remember that day. When I first came to Japan, I actually had very mixed feelings. It was my first time leaving my family and friends and coming to a completely unfamiliar country, so I felt lonely and afraid, and I also worried a lot.
However, as time passed, I gradually became accustomed to life here. Japan now feels like a “second home” to me. I have also met many dear friends here who are like family, and I feel truly fortunate.
What kind of country is Japan to you?: I think Japan is a very safe and clean country, and Japanese people are very polite and kind.
At first, I was sometimes surprised by the cultural differences. However, as I had more opportunities to experience Japanese culture and gained a deeper understanding of it, I began to enjoy living in Japan more and more. I was also able to learn many new values and cultural customs.
What was the happiest moment during your study abroad experience?: International students often feel anxious about their future. Questions such as “What should I do next?”, “Which path should I choose?”, and “Which school suits for me?” are always on their minds.
For me, the happiest moment was when I received the acceptance email from Chiba University’s graduate school. The moment I saw the acceptance letter, I was truly delighted and finally felt relieved.
Is there anyone or any experience in Japan that you will never forget?: When I first came to Japan, I found it more difficult than I had expected to make friends. I felt especially nervous when trying to make Japanese friends.
However, I gradually realized that living abroad can be very enjoyable when you meet the right people. Now, I have not only Japanese friends but also many friends from all over the world. We often go out and spend weekends together. These friendships are a very important part of my study abroad experience.
How did you learn about ISI Japanese Language School, and why did you ultimately choose ISI?: At the time, I learned about ISI Japanese Language School while searching online for language schools in Japan.
I was particularly drawn to its excellent reputation and the fact that its campuses are located in Tokyo. In addition, I had heard that ISI provides comprehensive support for students seeking further education and attracts international students from all over the world.
I ultimately chose ISI because I felt that I would be able not only to learn Japanese but also to experience a wide variety of cultures from different countries.
How was your learning experience at ISI?: Overall, I had a very positive learning experience at ISI. All of the teachers were kind, and the learning atmosphere with my classmates was also excellent.
I especially liked how everyone worked hard together and supported one another. Through my time at ISI, I was able not only to improve my Japanese language skills but also to meet many wonderful friends.
Was there a teacher you particularly liked?: Yes, I am truly grateful to Instructor Kajimori.
The instructor genuinely cared about each student, offering support not only with our studies but also with our daily lives. I was in her class for a long time, but unfortunately, the class assignments were changed three months before graduation, and I had to continue my studies in a new class.
Although I was sad to leave the class, I will always be grateful for the support she gave me.
Which university and research field were you accepted into?: I was accepted into the Graduate School of Chiba University. My research field is Forensic Toxicology.
What did the university entrance exam mainly consist of?: It was mainly about interview.
During the interview, I was asked about my academic background, my research interests, and my future goals. Most importantly, I needed to clearly explain why I became interested in forensic toxicology and what I hope to research in the future.
What was the biggest challenge during your application process, and how did you overcome it?: The biggest challenge was identifying the research field I truly wanted to pursue.
In addition, I needed to find a professor who would be willing to supervise me, and I was hoping to work with someone who could communicate in English.
To achieve my goal, I researched many universities and laboratories and proactively reached out to professors by email. It was a challenging process, but I never gave up, and eventually I could find the research field that was the best fit for me.
How do you think you have grown through your study abroad experience?: I believe I have become much more independent than before.
Living alone in a foreign country taught me how to solve problems on my own and take responsibility for my decisions. These experiences taught me how to think independently and solve problems on my own.
At the same time, I gained a much deeper understanding of the importance of different cultures and perspectives.
Is there anything you're looking forward to in your new life?: I'm really looking forward to starting my research journey.
I hope to gain new knowledge, explore my field of interest in greater depth, and build my experience as I work toward achieving my goals.
If you had to describe your study abroad experience in three keywords, what would they be?: I would choose challenge, growth, and connection.
First, challenge. Living in an unfamiliar country and studying in Japanese was a major challenge in itself.
Next, growth. Through my study abroad experience, I feel that I have become a stronger and more mature person.
Finally, connection. In Japan, I met many wonderful friends from all over the world. These meaningful connections will remain some of the most unforgettable memories of my life.

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