Interview with an overseas student

Tran Thi Bich Ngoc from Vietnam

Q. Why did you want to study at Fukushima University's School of Food and Agricultural Sciences?

-- There were two main reasons why I chose to study at the Fukushima University's School of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

First, I am very interested in food science. I initially decided to study in Japan because of my strong desire to develop food products. I believe that studying in the Department of Food and Agricultural Sciences, which covers not only food science but also a wide range of areas related to food and agriculture, will allow me to pursue my future goals effectively.

Second, compared with other universities, Fukushima University's Department of Food and Agricultural Sciences actively engages students in hands-on agricultural practices. I wanted to learn how farmers work and understand the challenges they face, so that I could create high-quality products that reach consumers.
Additionally, I sought more opportunities to interact with the Japanese people and learn about their culture.

Q. What did you gain from your four years of study?

-- During my four years, I majored in agricultural management and distribution of agricultural products. I attended lectures on these subjects and participated in practical agricultural training with the Date City Agricultural Products Group in the Fukushima Prefecture. We focused on the greenhouse cultivation of strawberries in Date City to enhance productivity and quality.

My responsibilities included analyzing data from strawberry greenhouses, conducting taste surveys, and interviewing farmers. Through these activities, I improved my agricultural skills and became proficient in Excel and PowerPoint. I also enhanced my communication skills by interacting with local farmers, which helped me grow professionally.

Q. What kind of work do you want to do in the future?

-- In future, I aim to use Vietnamese agricultural products to provide safe and secure food to people worldwide. Initially, I would like to work for a Japanese company that manufactures food products, focusing on the management of equipment, raw materials, and quality control. After gaining this experience, I plan to return to Vietnam to contribute to the development of my home country.

Q. What do you like about Fukushima Prefecture?

-- The people of Fukushima City are kind and supportive. From the members of the Faculty of Food and Agriculture and the International Center to my colleagues in my part-time job, everyone has been very helpful, allowing me to study and live in peace.

One of the favored aspects of this region is its unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. During the Edo period, I often visited the Kasumigake-Castle Park chrysanthemum exhibition in Nihonmatsu, which has a long history, and Ouchi Juku School. I also looked forward to winter, as it rarely snows in Vietnam and I enjoy skipping with friends every year.

Fukushima also hosts sports championships, events, and festivals aimed at foreigners two to three times a year. These events offer great opportunities for cultural exchanges with people from Japan and other countries.

Field study at a strawberry farm in Date City. On This farm, a high-tech IoT management method was introduced.

Vietnamese student communities. We opened a Vietnamese cuisine booth during the Fukushima Festival.