公開日 2025年06月05日
On June 2, 2025, a special lunch event with President Otani was held at Global Commons in the International Center. It was an informal gathering where participants had the chance to share their thoughts on a variety of topics while enjoying sweets and eating their obento (box lunches).
A total of 18 people joined the event, including Japanese and international students as well as faculty members.
Students exchanged views with President Otani on their interests, goals, and even concerns related to their university life and studies.
As the conversation flowed, the president listened attentively and took notes on each student's opinions and suggestions, which covered topics such as the availability of university facilities, budgeting, and the cost of living in Japan.
President Otani also shared that when he was a professor at the School of Medicine, his office was always open for students to ask questions and express their daily concerns. That is why he values these kinds of opportunities to hear directly from students, just as he did back then.
Another topic discussed was the role of Global Commons. The president emphasized the importance of these spaces within the university (there are seven in total) and encouraged everyone to feel free to use them for studying, spending time with friends, and engaging in cultural exchange between international and Japanese students.
The president recommended a book called "Pioneering Academic Learning" by Hajime Nakamura.
He also recommended a book available in the Global Commons library and encouraged students to explore the collection, which includes a wide range of titles in both English and Japanese.
More sessions are planned for later this year — don’t miss the next one!
