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38The first time I was told that I received the Monbukagakusho Japanese Studies Scholarship to study at Shimane University for one year, I actually didn't even know where Shimane Prefecture was located. I heard that the campus was in a small city, so I was really worried about public transportation, facilities, and the most important thing, food. I am a Muslim, so I can only consume food that is Halal, which is a dietary standard according to Islamic law.Ronald KatongoleGraduate School of Natural Science and TechnologyBut after coming to Shimane University, it did not really take time for me to adapt. There is beautiful nature, and cultural and historical spots in every corner of the city. It feels really calming when walking around the city, especially around Matsue Castle. I can walk to places since everything is close by. It is a really nice environment for enjoying life and focusing on study.One thing that is really memorable from my experience of living in Matsue and being a student at Shimane University is the people of Shimane. I joined a movie making class that helped me make new friends with Japanese people and other exchange students. We play basketball every Thursday at the university’s gym. It is really fun! I also joined one of the biggest festivals in Matsue called “Musha Gyouretsu”. I joined in the practice and performed together with Matsue residents in the festival even though I am a foreigner, but they treated me with a lot of kind-ness just as if I were any other resident. This is one of my most memorable experiences.There are a lot more experiences that I would definitely not have had if I’d chosen another university other than Shimane University. This city might be small, but that is the real reason why I feel this city’s warmth. I am very grateful for every single day I have spent here. Shimane University is definitely the best place for you to study and enjoy your life!The prospect of undertaking a course abroad is quite challenging, especially as a private student, but being inspired by the natural environment and the quality products in Japan, I resolved to undertake a Master’s degree at Shimane University, Japan. Adapting to life in Japan was the most challenging hurdle, but the great services offered by International Student Section and the student tutoring system enabled me settle within a short time. I have enjoyed a range of activities such as field trips, camps and other activities that introduced me to many famous and cultural places such as Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine and castles. This has given me rich life experiences based on unique historical traditions that have been sustained amidst the modern era of technology. The university is situated in calm and cool city with a mountainous landscape covered by trees. A climate such as this provides quality fresh air that relaxes the mind, especially at places such as Lafcadio Hearn’s beloved sunset scenery of Lake Shinji. It is a gratifying visit. The community here has strong ties with the international students, which has encouraged me to embrace several festivals such as Horanenya, Mikoshi and more. These make day-to-day life livelier in Japanese culture. Although my primary interest in coming to Shimane was quality research, I have also experienced quality balanced time at Shimane University with a myriad of memorable events that will last for a lifetime. I greatly acknowledge the efforts of the International Student Section for helping students’ lives flourish. Andi Meiliiqa Rachmi Mutia LarasatiFaculty of Law and LiteratureShimane University: A place to enjoy your study and lifeShimane University: A home away from homeVoice of overseas students