Shun Sato, although born in Japan, has lived in Indonesia since he was six-months old. He studied at an American school with a wide variety of students and teachers, each with different backgrounds. Growing up in a globally diverse environment exposed him to a wide range of perspectives and cultures from an early age, shaping both his worldview and academic interests.
Indonesia is the place Shun calls home, yet growing up outside of Japan has made him feel that he is not quite “Japanese enough.” His desire to reconnect to his Japanese roots led him to pursue his studies at the University of Tokyo.
Shun speaks highly of Programs in English at Komaba’s (PEAK) international and discussion-based environment. The small class sizes, with often less than 30 students and upwards of 10 nationalities, create a community where students, seniors, and lecturers interact closely. He notes that April entry students can greatly benefit from these diverse and global classes where open debate and communication thrive.
Through the foundation of knowledge provided by Shun’s major, Japan in East Asia, Shun hopes to pursue a career in the business sector. Drawing from his Japanese heritage and international upbringing, he envisions himself as a bridge between Japan and the global market. He is particularly eager to deepen his understanding of Japan’s role within the global system and believes that April entry students can further enrich PEAK by bringing broader perspectives on Japan to the program.
Transitioning to life in Tokyo came with challenges. Shun had grown accustomed to Indonesia’s slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle — a sharp contrast to Tokyo’s relentless “racing course.” Another adjustment was the strong emphasis on seniority in Japan. In Indonesia, he felt that people sought to connect on an equal level regardless of age or status. In Japan, hierarchical structures and seniority shape communication in club and academic settings — a dynamic which Shun has found constraining. Regardless, when he found difficulty adjusting to the workload of university life, Shun credits his upperclassmen for their continuous support.
Outside of academics, Shun has made many valuable memories with other international students at Mejirodai International Village. Through late nights in the common areas and playing pool in the lobby, they have nurtured close friendships. Shun has also become close with many April entry students who join PEAK courses and through club activities, namely Sekai International United FC and Our Vision for Asian Leadership, an inter-collegiate circle which competes in the International Business Contest annually across East Asia. Although the PEAK and April entry communities can often be distinct and separate, he really appreciated Komabasai, a uniquely Japanese event, where he witnessed both of his communities, and identities, interact and come together as one.
To April entry students, Shun makes his message clear: take the initiative to interact with international students and take PEAK classes, saying “you never know what you might find” — be it new perspectives, friendships, or opportunities. 【絆】
The post Shun Sato (PEAK JEA): Navigating Identity and Community at UTokyo first appeared on 東大新聞オンライン.
Shun Sato (PEAK JEA): Navigating Identity and Community at UTokyo 2026 IUSTITIA.BG – Investigations 2009-2025 2026-04-17 02:00:25
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