[Special Feature] The JIU Marshall Family

The Marshall family has a connection to JIU. Brian, the father, came to Japan as an exchange student from the fall of 1998 to the summer of 2000, where he met Yuriko (graduated from the Faculty of Humanities in 2002). Their son, Liam (a second-year student Faculty of Tourism Department of Tourism), is currently studying at JIU, having left his family in Canada. When his parents returned home for a visit, they came to Chiba Togane Campus and shared their connection to JIU, what motivated them to attend a Japanese university, and their fulfilling Campus Life.

JIU's encounter and their respective connections

Yuriko: After working as a professional, I entered university through the entrance exam for working adults. I was working in Tokyo, but I felt a little tired of city life and wanted to study again at university, so I was attracted to Josai International University, which I could commute to from my hometown, and applied there. In my second year of university, I used the JEAP study abroad program* and studied in Canada for about a year, which was a very important experience that has led me to where I am today.

Brian: I studied Japanese and Chinese at Camosun College in Canada. I came across JIU when I was considering studying abroad in Japan. At the time, JIU had limited slots for international students and was not in a major city, so I felt it would be suitable for learning Japanese and enrolled as an exchange student. I was able to make friends regardless of my major, and I still keep in touch with my classmates from that time.

Yuriko: I met him in college. We became friends at the Canadian booth at the university festival because we had a common interest. Later, since my family ran a guesthouse, I ended up hosting him as a homestay student. Our friendship continued, and before I knew it, he had become part of the family. (laughs)

Liam: I've heard a little bit about how my parents met. Because JIU is part of the family, I've been very familiar with her since childhood. Not only my parents, but my grandparents and other relatives are all connected to JIU, and they're all gathered around me.

A family sharing memories

Regarding Liam's plans for higher education

Yuriko: I currently live in Canada, so I wanted to continue to be involved with universities in some way. Then, in July 2024, when I returned to Japan for a visit, I attended an open campus event with my son, who was considering universities. I still remember being so captivated by the Faculty of Faculty of Tourism 's explanation and presentation that I thought, "I want to enroll here myself."

Liam: I love entertaining people and I'm very interested in world cultures. I also enjoy creative work such as graphic design and other design-related activities, and I'd like to try my hand at a wide range of projects, including brochure production.

Brian: At the time, my son's future path was still undecided. However, I was confident that JIU would provide an environment where he could develop his personality, which is characterized by his interest in various things and his desire to try many different things. Since JIU is a place with which we also have a connection, we were able to send our son with peace of mind.

Liam: I'm currently commuting from my mother's family home. I'm enjoying university, and I'm blessed with great friends and professors, so I'm having a fulfilling Campus Life.

Then and Now

Yuriko: I visited the university for the first time in a long time when I participated in the open campus. When I saw Professor Kurabayashi's face, I was instantly transported back to that time. The area around the university had also changed. The number of faculties had increased since I was a student, and the fields of study had expanded, making me realize that the university is growing with the times. I used to come here often when International Education Center 's office was in Building F. I remember filling out paperwork here when I was studying abroad. It brings back memories. This is where I first met you, wearing that red dress, isn't it?

Brian: That's right. I was walking with a teacher who was also from Canada. It's really nostalgic. Seeing the teachers I took classes from and the teachers I used to see around campus made me feel like I was back in my student days. I'm happy to see the university's development, and I still check the university's social media regularly.

A family chatting and laughing at a place full of memories.

Student life and future goals

Liam: I'm surprised by how much more interaction I have with international students, not just English speakers, compared to when I lived in Canada. I've been able to become friends with students from Poland, Norway, Hungary, and other countries, and I feel like I'm having a wealth of experiences outside of studying.

Yuriko: It seems the students from Poland and Norway have already graduated, but they're still keeping in touch. They often contact me saying they've made unexpected connections that they couldn't have experienced in Canada, and that they're feeling fulfilled.

Brian: He seems to be very inspired by meeting international students from various countries and taking classes with students from all over Japan.

Liam: I love challenges, so I'm looking forward to the projects that will start in my second year and the seminar assignments from my third year. I would also love to travel to countries around the world with unspoiled nature and lesser-known regions.

Yuriko: I always tell them to give it their all and not be afraid to try new things. I'd rather they regret trying than regret not trying at all.

Brian: Although we live far apart, in Canada and Japan, I feel at ease because I'm living with my family. I want to provide as much support as possible so that he can have a fulfilling university life.

A photo that gives a glimpse into their close relationship.

JEAP (Josai Education Abroad Program) is Josai International University 's unique study abroad program. Credits earned at the host university are recognized as credits required for graduation from Josai, allowing students to graduate in four years without taking a leave of absence from the university. Long-term study abroad programs include privately funded study abroad and exchange study abroad.

Josai International University offers a scholarship program where the alumni association covers the equivalent of the entrance fee for children of graduates who enroll at Josai International University.