Students / AlumniRikkyo University, Master of Social Development and Administration Course (MSDA)
Messages from MSDA Alumni
Class of 2024
Carlos Antonio ZUNIGA RUBI
MSDA 2022 student
National Origin: Honduras
National Origin: Honduras
Why did you decide to study abroad at Rikkyo University?
When looking for a university, I analyzed several master's degrees and options around Japan. I chose Rikkyo and its master’s in social development and administration (MSDA) Course because it had a combination of high academic rigor, analysis of society, but also, an important area of knowledge "hands on" in socioeconomic development in its classes. Likewise, in the search I found that Rikkyo University was widely recognized nationally and internationally.
What are you currently studying?
Among my research interests are immigration issues (specifically, the impact of programs or policies that try to generate "reasons to stay") and local economic development. My research is currently focused on the impact of international cooperation development programs on the growth of small businesses in Honduras. Since my work in Honduras has always involved promoting economic growth, I find the different ways that exist to generate local livelihoods with a manageable social and environmental impact extremely interesting. For my thesis research, I had the opportunity to analyze the impact of a community movement on the entrepreneurs in a village in my country. It was extremely satisfying to be able to scientifically analyze the results of the movement and learn from my faculty professors about how to carry out academically rigorous research. Although the research process is distinctive from the one in my country, the excellent guidance provided by the university allowed me to obtain fascinating findings in my research.
In general, the experience of studying at Rikkyo, with a variety of courses to choose from in the areas of public policy, gender, social development and research methodology, strengthened the foundations of my research ability, so I could choose the best path to study the topic of my interest. and find the correct method to investigate it.
In general, the experience of studying at Rikkyo, with a variety of courses to choose from in the areas of public policy, gender, social development and research methodology, strengthened the foundations of my research ability, so I could choose the best path to study the topic of my interest. and find the correct method to investigate it.
Please tell us about extracurricular activities and moments you find enjoyable.
At the lookout of Mount Misen, Itsukushima Island. I learned a lot about the effects of the war and society reconstruction of the city during the Hiroshima visit.
A few months after arriving in Japan I was invited to an amateur volleyball group made up of Japanese and foreigners; I had played volleyball in high school, and thanks to them I was able to resume my hobby and we met several times a month to play. Additionally, with my friends who like photography we take short trips to practice, take photographs and take advantage of sightseeing in the incredible places that Japan has. Finally, since Japan is a very mountainous country, I have gone hiking several times in the mountains around Tokyo and in other prefectures when visiting.
Tell us about your interactions in classes, seminars, international exchange events, etc. Do you interact with Japanese students?
I have given several talks to Japanese middle and high school students during my time here, about curiosities about my country and about the things I do at university. Additionally, I know several Japanese students from my university and others in Japan. It is a stimulating experience for both of us, since our countries and regions are very far apart, so commenting on student life and daily life is very enriching for both parties.
Tell us about your personal growth from studying abroad and your future goals.
The time studying abroad gave me a broader perspective of society, a greater context of the situations in Asia and Africa, thanks to the classmates and people I met during the two years in Japan. In addition to this, I personally grew much more as a human being, learned the basics of a new language and was exposed to various cultures.
As for my future plans, I return to my country to contribute to the efforts to provide temporary work in an orderly and regular manner abroad for Hondurans. Then I want to explore returning to do my doctoral studies or work on sustainable development programs in Southeast Asia, since it is a place that will always have an important place in my heart.
As for my future plans, I return to my country to contribute to the efforts to provide temporary work in an orderly and regular manner abroad for Hondurans. Then I want to explore returning to do my doctoral studies or work on sustainable development programs in Southeast Asia, since it is a place that will always have an important place in my heart.
