3S
Message from PDP Alumni
6th batch: Employment: NTT Docomo, Inc.
Faculty of Faculty of Economics Department of Economics, PDP 6th batch (enrolled in April 2020)
Graduated from Mita High School
I first came into contact with accounting at PDP and became fascinated by its fascination and depth. I think it was a great achievement to encounter an exciting academic field. I began to think that I wanted to use what I learned in accounting in my work, and my future direction was also decided.
The exam period for my degree at the University of London overlapped with my job hunting period, so it was really difficult to balance both. I am very happy that I was able to successfully complete my degree and receive a job offer from NTT Docomo Inc. in the accounting and finance field. I am currently studying to obtain the first-level Japanese Bookkeeping qualification.
PDP is definitely a program that will broaden your future possibilities. It was hard to continue working hard for four years, and there were times when I wanted to give up, but at the end of the day, I found myself in a position that I could never have imagined before I enrolled. I would encourage anyone who is even the slightest bit interested in PDP to give it a try.
5th batch: Graduate School of the University of Konstanz
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Finance PDP 5th batch (enrolled in April 2019)
Graduated from Kokubunji Metropolitan High School Tokyo
Rather than simply learning English, the PDP allows me to use English to study economics, so I feel I have acquired more practical English skills. Among the subjects, I found econometrics, which requires knowledge of mathematics and statistics, difficult, but by studying with my friends and striving for a high score, I was able to achieve a good score and was accepted into the graduate school of the University of Konstanz in Germany. I am currently studying data science there. I was nervous about living abroad for the first time, but I am having a lot of fun applying what I learned in the PDP to more specialized research. In the future, I would like to gain practical experience through an internship at a company.
Graduated from Kokubunji Metropolitan High School Tokyo
Rather than simply learning English, the PDP allows me to use English to study economics, so I feel I have acquired more practical English skills. Among the subjects, I found econometrics, which requires knowledge of mathematics and statistics, difficult, but by studying with my friends and striving for a high score, I was able to achieve a good score and was accepted into the graduate school of the University of Konstanz in Germany. I am currently studying data science there. I was nervous about living abroad for the first time, but I am having a lot of fun applying what I learned in the PDP to more specialized research. In the future, I would like to gain practical experience through an internship at a company.
4th batch: Employment: Macromill Inc.
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 4th batch (enrolled in April 2018)
Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Komatsugawa High School
Main job duties
Through surveys, we increase the resolution of consumer behavior and psychology and deliver consumer insights to client companies (customers).
I often have to contact customers directly to ensure their requests are reflected in surveys. It's fun to hear firsthand what people are saying on the ground, as it gives me the opportunity to learn about the perspectives of various industries. I also have the opportunity to explain the results of my research to customers in debriefing sessions, so I feel that I'm gaining the know-how to speak in public, even though I'm a researcher (who researches market needs before companies develop and sell products). My current working style is a hybrid, incorporating remote work and coming into the office about twice a week. Another attractive feature is the flextime system, which gives me a certain degree of discretion in how I use my time.
Looking back on my PDP studies
People are very interested in the fact that I have "learned globally" both during my job search and after joining the company, and I believe that it will eventually become a point of differentiation for me within the company. Right now I am learning the basics through domestic surveys, but the company also conducts global surveys, so I would like to become more actively involved in them in the future. The biggest skill I have acquired is what Professor Togo mentioned the other day: "GRIT (the ability to persevere)." I'm sure there will be many times in the future when I feel like giving up, not just during job hunting, but my success experience at PDP is supporting me as an example of how effort and persistence can take shape.
Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Komatsugawa High School
Main job duties
Through surveys, we increase the resolution of consumer behavior and psychology and deliver consumer insights to client companies (customers).
I often have to contact customers directly to ensure their requests are reflected in surveys. It's fun to hear firsthand what people are saying on the ground, as it gives me the opportunity to learn about the perspectives of various industries. I also have the opportunity to explain the results of my research to customers in debriefing sessions, so I feel that I'm gaining the know-how to speak in public, even though I'm a researcher (who researches market needs before companies develop and sell products). My current working style is a hybrid, incorporating remote work and coming into the office about twice a week. Another attractive feature is the flextime system, which gives me a certain degree of discretion in how I use my time.
Looking back on my PDP studies
People are very interested in the fact that I have "learned globally" both during my job search and after joining the company, and I believe that it will eventually become a point of differentiation for me within the company. Right now I am learning the basics through domestic surveys, but the company also conducts global surveys, so I would like to become more actively involved in them in the future. The biggest skill I have acquired is what Professor Togo mentioned the other day: "GRIT (the ability to persevere)." I'm sure there will be many times in the future when I feel like giving up, not just during job hunting, but my success experience at PDP is supporting me as an example of how effort and persistence can take shape.
4th batch employment: Avanade Co., Ltd.
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 4th batch (enrolled in April 2018)
Graduated from Toyo High School in Shizuoka Prefecture
Main job duties
I currently work in a department related to data analysis. When you hear the term "data analysis," you might think that the job simply involves comparing data, but I also perform engineering tasks such as collecting data and converting it so that it can be used with the tools of my choice. Each project involves a different industry and uses different tools, so I learn about the industry and how to use tools through various projects.
Looking back on my PDP studies
I believe that my desire to learn new things and my ability to continue studying them are useful in my current job. In PDP, as you progress through the grades, you are able to study a wider range of subjects and more difficult subjects. No matter which field you choose, you must study that subject for a year and pass an exam, and you repeat this cycle four times (over four years). I believe that the ability to continue studying and the attitude of continuing to learn with curiosity while studying are necessary for continuing my current job, and PDP was a very meaningful program that allowed me to acquire these skills.
About the Boston Career Forum, which I attended during my job hunting while I was a student
The best thing about participating in the Boston Career Forum (Boscari) was meeting international university students there. Because Boscari is a job hunting forum in Boston, I was able to meet many job-hunting students who are living at universities overseas. Meeting people I would not easily meet in Japan was both stimulating and a valuable opportunity that motivated me to work hard.
Graduated from Toyo High School in Shizuoka Prefecture
Main job duties
I currently work in a department related to data analysis. When you hear the term "data analysis," you might think that the job simply involves comparing data, but I also perform engineering tasks such as collecting data and converting it so that it can be used with the tools of my choice. Each project involves a different industry and uses different tools, so I learn about the industry and how to use tools through various projects.
Looking back on my PDP studies
I believe that my desire to learn new things and my ability to continue studying them are useful in my current job. In PDP, as you progress through the grades, you are able to study a wider range of subjects and more difficult subjects. No matter which field you choose, you must study that subject for a year and pass an exam, and you repeat this cycle four times (over four years). I believe that the ability to continue studying and the attitude of continuing to learn with curiosity while studying are necessary for continuing my current job, and PDP was a very meaningful program that allowed me to acquire these skills.
About the Boston Career Forum, which I attended during my job hunting while I was a student
The best thing about participating in the Boston Career Forum (Boscari) was meeting international university students there. Because Boscari is a job hunting forum in Boston, I was able to meet many job-hunting students who are living at universities overseas. Meeting people I would not easily meet in Japan was both stimulating and a valuable opportunity that motivated me to work hard.
3rd batch graduates' place of employment: Subaru Corporation, Overseas Vehicle Division
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 3rd batch (enrolled in April 2017)
Graduated from Chiba Prefectural Sakura High School
Main job duties
Shipping finished vehicles, handling defective vehicles, processing invoices, etc. When it comes to shipping finished vehicles, I'm in charge of both exporting through a trading company (indirect trade) and exporting by booking a ship directly with a shipping company (direct trade). As a result, I'm involved with many people, including market managers within the company, as well as people in charge of trading companies, shipping companies, and logistics companies, and when problems arise, I'm always in contact with someone and giving instructions, so I often work with people outside my department.
Looking back on my PDP studies
Thinking about things in terms of "abstract vs concrete" or analogies, and being able to move swiftly under a tight schedule are probably skills that are necessary for any job, and I think my experience at PDP was beneficial in that it allowed me to cultivate these to some extent. Also, as a BSc, I feel that I have a better sense for numbers than my liberal arts seniors.
Graduated from Chiba Prefectural Sakura High School
Main job duties
Shipping finished vehicles, handling defective vehicles, processing invoices, etc. When it comes to shipping finished vehicles, I'm in charge of both exporting through a trading company (indirect trade) and exporting by booking a ship directly with a shipping company (direct trade). As a result, I'm involved with many people, including market managers within the company, as well as people in charge of trading companies, shipping companies, and logistics companies, and when problems arise, I'm always in contact with someone and giving instructions, so I often work with people outside my department.
Looking back on my PDP studies
Thinking about things in terms of "abstract vs concrete" or analogies, and being able to move swiftly under a tight schedule are probably skills that are necessary for any job, and I think my experience at PDP was beneficial in that it allowed me to cultivate these to some extent. Also, as a BSc, I feel that I have a better sense for numbers than my liberal arts seniors.
2nd batch: Employment: Station Japan Co., Ltd.
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 2nd batch (enrolled in April 2016)
Graduated from Renaissance High School
Studying economics in English presented many challenges, but PDP greatly expanded my horizons. I was able to persevere for four and a half years because I strongly felt that my efforts were rewarded, such as improving my English every day and getting the opportunity to study abroad at SIM. Currently, I work as a business analyst at an IT company, supporting requirements definition between Japanese clients and development teams in China and the US for offshore development projects. While I need to organize technical requirements and communicate them accurately, I can confidently utilize the English skills, logical thinking, and communication skills I developed at PDP to avoid misunderstandings due to language differences.
Graduated from Renaissance High School
Studying economics in English presented many challenges, but PDP greatly expanded my horizons. I was able to persevere for four and a half years because I strongly felt that my efforts were rewarded, such as improving my English every day and getting the opportunity to study abroad at SIM. Currently, I work as a business analyst at an IT company, supporting requirements definition between Japanese clients and development teams in China and the US for offshore development projects. While I need to organize technical requirements and communicate them accurately, I can confidently utilize the English skills, logical thinking, and communication skills I developed at PDP to avoid misunderstandings due to language differences.
2nd batch: Employment: Infosys Limited
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 2nd batch (enrolled in April 2016)
Graduated from Omiya Kaisei High School
Main job duties
I work in the AMS (Application Management Service) department of a foreign automobile manufacturer, providing bilingual support as the first point of contact for business users. My job involves receiving requests and issues related to the applications used by business users, verifying them, and then passing them on to the next level of support team as appropriate, managing them until the end. Since I work fully remotely, I work from home or a nearby cafe.
Looking back on my PDP studies
When studying PDP, I believe it is necessary to know the reasons and background behind theories as well. This makes studying more enjoyable as you can connect the dots and understand things better, rather than just memorizing everything. Getting into the habit of asking yourself "why does this happen?" is a skill that will be useful even when you enter society. If you don't understand "why does this happen," there's a high chance you'll stumble at the next step. I believe this is the same when studying PDP.
Also, when you don't understand something, it's important to "ask questions." When you enter society, if you don't raise your hand, others will assume there's no problem, and things will just move forward. There may be an atmosphere in Japanese classes where it's difficult to ask questions, but there's nothing shameful about asking questions. It's far better than proceeding without understanding, only to have problems later and regret it. And because PDP classes are held with a small group of people who share the same goals, I think it's an environment where it's easy to ask questions.
Looking back on my student days, I think studying PDP itself is a great learning material that helps you develop the habit of thinking about "why something is the way it is" and then "asking questions" when you don't understand.
Graduated from Omiya Kaisei High School
Main job duties
I work in the AMS (Application Management Service) department of a foreign automobile manufacturer, providing bilingual support as the first point of contact for business users. My job involves receiving requests and issues related to the applications used by business users, verifying them, and then passing them on to the next level of support team as appropriate, managing them until the end. Since I work fully remotely, I work from home or a nearby cafe.
Looking back on my PDP studies
When studying PDP, I believe it is necessary to know the reasons and background behind theories as well. This makes studying more enjoyable as you can connect the dots and understand things better, rather than just memorizing everything. Getting into the habit of asking yourself "why does this happen?" is a skill that will be useful even when you enter society. If you don't understand "why does this happen," there's a high chance you'll stumble at the next step. I believe this is the same when studying PDP.
Also, when you don't understand something, it's important to "ask questions." When you enter society, if you don't raise your hand, others will assume there's no problem, and things will just move forward. There may be an atmosphere in Japanese classes where it's difficult to ask questions, but there's nothing shameful about asking questions. It's far better than proceeding without understanding, only to have problems later and regret it. And because PDP classes are held with a small group of people who share the same goals, I think it's an environment where it's easy to ask questions.
Looking back on my student days, I think studying PDP itself is a great learning material that helps you develop the habit of thinking about "why something is the way it is" and then "asking questions" when you don't understand.
1st batch graduates' employment: Global marketing research company
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 1st batch (enrolled in April 2015)
Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Fuji High School
PDP has helped me in two ways and continues to help me in my work today. First, I was able to study "in English." I currently work for a foreign marketing research company and use English every day. Being used to thinking of English as "just a language" has led to smooth communication at work. Second, it has made me constantly think, "Why?" "Really?" You can't pass the PDP exam by memorization alone. You need to think logically and understand why the answer is what it is. Logical thinking is important in marketing, so having that skill since I was a student has been very useful.
Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Fuji High School
PDP has helped me in two ways and continues to help me in my work today. First, I was able to study "in English." I currently work for a foreign marketing research company and use English every day. Being used to thinking of English as "just a language" has led to smooth communication at work. Second, it has made me constantly think, "Why?" "Really?" You can't pass the PDP exam by memorization alone. You need to think logically and understand why the answer is what it is. Logical thinking is important in marketing, so having that skill since I was a student has been very useful.
1st batch graduates' employment: Trend Micro Inc.
Faculty Faculty of Economics Department of Management PDP 1st batch (enrolled in April 2015)
Graduated from Shizuoka High School
I was able to take classes in small groups, and because I was close to the professors, I was blessed with opportunities to proactively ask questions. I felt that the learning environment was extremely fulfilling. Having to complete two university classes in a limited amount of time taught me how to use my time strategically. Although I sometimes became mentally exhausted from studying for long periods of time, I was able to maintain my motivation by studying daily together with my classmates.
We often had discussions in class, which helped me to express my opinions logically during job interviews and group discussions. I believe that the mindset I gained through PDP, which is to proactively take on new challenges, will be useful even after I get a job. After graduation, I would like to use my experience at PDP to work in a position where I can have an impact on society.
Graduated from Shizuoka High School
I was able to take classes in small groups, and because I was close to the professors, I was blessed with opportunities to proactively ask questions. I felt that the learning environment was extremely fulfilling. Having to complete two university classes in a limited amount of time taught me how to use my time strategically. Although I sometimes became mentally exhausted from studying for long periods of time, I was able to maintain my motivation by studying daily together with my classmates.
We often had discussions in class, which helped me to express my opinions logically during job interviews and group discussions. I believe that the mindset I gained through PDP, which is to proactively take on new challenges, will be useful even after I get a job. After graduation, I would like to use my experience at PDP to work in a position where I can have an impact on society.