Details

• Japan
• MAEXINT-24
• Graduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

Travel and Logistics Once you receive your official acceptance, I highly recommend booking your flights as early as possible to secure the best rates. For my exchange, I flew from Munich to Tokyo. While it is possible to fly directly into Nagoya, flights to Tokyo are generally more cost-effective and offer better connections. I chose to arrive in Japan a few weeks before the semester started. This allowed me to travel and familiarize myself with the country’s culture and infrastructure before my academic commitments began. Housing and Arrival One major advantage of this exchange program is that the university provides guaranteed housing, so you do not need to search for an apartment independently. However, please note that there are fixed move-in periods. It is essential to be present during these times. I recommend arriving in your host city at least one day before your move-in date to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth transition into your dormitory. Financial Preparation Despite its high-tech reputation, Japan remains a cash-heavy society. I suggest exchanging a sufficient amount of currency before your departure to cover initial expenses. Furthermore, I strongly recommend applying for a specialized travel credit card beforehand. Standard German credit cards often incur significant transaction fees abroad; having a card tailored for international use will save you a considerable amount of money in the long run.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation Search and Experience As previously mentioned, the NUCB (Nagoya University of Commerce and Business) offers university-managed housing, which simplifies the process significantly. While it is theoretically possible to search for private accommodation, the university provides detailed guidance on their own housing options, which most exchange students choose to utilize. Housing Types and Assignment Currently, there are three main residences for international students located throughout the city. A key point to keep in mind is that students cannot choose their specific residence; the university handles the assignment process. For instance, although I arrived with two colleagues from the same Master’s program, we were all assigned to different dormitories. Location and Proximity I was assigned to the most centrally located residence, which was excellent in terms of convenience. My dormitory was within easy walking distance of the city center, and the commute to the university campus was very short—only two stops by subway. The area felt exceptionally safe, which is typical for residential zones in Japan. Facilities and Practical Tips The rooms are designed with a minimalist approach but provide all the essentials for a semester abroad. Each room includes: - A private bathroom - A small kitchenette with a stove - An in-room washing machine (Note: Japanese washing machines typically use cold water only) What I wish I had known beforehand: The rooms do not come with towels. I purchased mine at a local supermarket shortly after arrival. If you have space in your luggage, you might want to bring a basic set for the first few days; otherwise, they are easily and affordably available nearby.

3. Academic life at host university

Academic Culture and Teaching Style The academic approach at NUCB differs significantly from the system at WU Vienna. The university strictly follows the Case Method, where the primary learning material consists of business cases that must be analyzed beforehand and discussed in class. Grading System: The "Curved Grading" Method A critical factor to consider is that NUCB employs a relative grading scale (curved grading). This means: - Only 10% of the students in a class can receive an A. - Conversely, the bottom 10% of the class fail the course automatically. - The remaining students are distributed across the intermediate grades. Because of this system, the competition can be intense. Furthermore, approximately 75% of your final grade is determined by class participation, with the remaining 25% typically coming from written reports or assignments. Course Structure Each course is highly intensive and consists of four sessions: - MBA Courses: Typically held on weekends. - Regular Courses: Held over four consecutive days during the week. - Daily Workload: You will discuss two cases per day, and sessions usually last the entire day. Challenges with Class Participation While the focus on participation is designed to push students out of their comfort zones, it presents several practical challenges: - Class Size: In classes with up to 80 students, it is often impossible for everyone to contribute meaningfully. - Quality vs. Quantity: Since participation is the primary grading metric, many students tend to speak just to be heard, sometimes providing little intellectual value or even reading AI-generated responses (ChatGPT). This can be frustrating for those seeking a deep, content-driven discussion. - Subjectivity: Grading is highly dependent on the professor’s subjective perception. Despite active engagement, there is a risk of not being called upon, which directly impacts your grade. Practical Tips for the Classroom - Seating Matters: We noticed that seating is strategic. It is crucial to sit within the professor’s direct line of sight. If you sit on the periphery, you risk being overlooked during discussions. - Additional Costs: Be aware that students are required to pay for the licensed cases and simulations used in class separately.

5. Every day life in the host country

Safety and Public Transport Japan is renowned for its exceptional level of safety, and my experience in Nagoya was no exception. Regardless of the time of day, I felt completely secure navigating the city. The local population is incredibly respectful and helpful, which makes adapting to the new environment very easy. Regarding logistics, Nagoya is excellently connected: - Local Transit: The city features a highly efficient subway and bus network, making the daily commute and city exploration seamless. - National/International Travel: Nagoya has its own international airport (Centrair), providing easy access to other parts of Japan and neighboring Asian countries. Additionally, being a major stop on the Shinkansen (bullet train) line makes trips to Tokyo or Kyoto very convenient. Social Life and Networking One of the highlights of the exchange was the immediate social integration. Because NUCB houses most international students in the same residences, it is very easy to connect with people from all over the world. - Community: You will find yourself part of a vibrant international community from day one. This leads to many organized trips, shared dinners, and social gatherings. - Leisure and Sports: Nagoya offers a wide range of activities, from traditional shrines and museums to modern shopping districts like Sakae. For those interested in sports, there are numerous local gyms and public parks, though most international students tend to organize their own group activities and excursions.

6. Testimonial

Japan is undoubtedly the most beautiful country I have ever visited, offering an incredible variety of experiences—from Caribbean-style beaches in the south to world-class skiing in the north. While the travel and cultural opportunities were absolute highlights, the academic experience at NUCB was disappointing, as the grading system prioritized the quantity of participation over actual intellectual depth. Ultimately, the exchange was a personal success due to the breathtaking diversity of the country, even though the host university’s academic level did not meet my expectations.