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Episode

The eight competencies developed at Ritsumeikan Academy.
We introduce how they are developed through daily experiences, along with diverse episodes.

*These episodes are based on responses actually submitted by students at every level of education—including elementary, junior high, and high school students, as well as university and graduate students—in the Quantitative Survey for Ritsumeikan Academy Competency Framework conducted in the 2024 academic year. Information that could identify individuals has been removed or modified before publication.

Since I was a kid, I have always loved talking and playing with other people around me. Back in the days, I spent a lot of time hanging out with my friends and sharing daily events around me with them. We went to each other houses and played card together while talking about our days at school. I was considered as a smart kid back then, especially in English so my friends would come and ask me about English homework. I enjoyed sharing what I knew with them because I found I could be helpful to them. Another thing which I am really good at is giving pieces of advice for relationships. Many of my friends ask me for bits of advice regarding relationships with their loved ones or even disliked ones. I think it is because I am good at listening and I often give them ideas which they never think about. I also do not have much conflicts with anybody as if something goes wrong, I am always the one who say sorry and show attitudes to move toward a better things. I do not like fighting and quarelling against anybody and anythings. That might be because I am afraid to be hurted and hurt other people. My friends tell me I am easy to cry whenever I feel sad. I do not like but also not hate this part of me. Because I do not like the feeling to be hurted and sad so I always careful with words and actions in order not to hurt anyone. And thus that makes me good at talking and building relationships with others. I have always enjoyed playing and chatting with those around me, even as a little child. I used to hang out with my pals a lot and tell them about the things that happened in my life. We visited one other's homes and played cards while discussing our school days. Back then, I was thought to be a bright child, particularly in English, so my buddies would come to me with English homework questions. I discovered that I could be of assistance to them, therefore I appreciated sharing my knowledge with them. My ability to offer relationship counsel is another one of my strong points. A lot of my friends ask me for small pieces of advice about how to interact with their loved ones or even those they don't like. I believe it's because I listen well and frequently offer them options that they would never consider. Additionally, I don't have many disagreements with people since I'm the one who constantly apologizes and adopts a positive outlook in order to make things better. I don't enjoy arguing and fighting with people or things. This may be because I'm scared of getting hurt and hurting other people. According to my friends, I cry easily when I'm depressed. Although I dislike this aspect of myself, I also do not despise it. I always take care with my words and actions to avoid hurting anyone because I dislike the feeling of being unhappy and wounded. As a result, I'm skilled at interacting with people and establishing rapport.

Empathy

I’ve realized that everyone is dealing with their own struggles, even if we can’t see what’s going on in their lives. That understanding has taught me how important it is to be empathetic. When you take the time to be there for someone and show them support, it can make such a difference. Being empathetic means helping people feel seen, loved, and understood, even in their toughest moments. It’s about creating a positive space where they know they’re not alone. I’ve found that showing a little kindness and understanding goes a long way—not just in making others feel better but also in making the world a brighter, more positive place for everyone.

Empathy

When I failed a mid term exam, I try to learn from my mistakes and do better in the second half of the lecture.

Empathy

I learned how to innovate and learn how to be empathetic because I am taking all of my classes through an international perspective rather than an American one. My classes are being taught by professors from all over the world, and I'm having conversations with people about different issues and events while hearing so many different perspectives.

Empathy

People helped me decide whats best for me and what I need to do and when I need to do it, mostly seniors and other friends who have more experience than me.

Empathy

When my friends asking me for advice, I can see how I can put myself in their shoes as before I find it difficult to think emotionally.

Empathy

empathy when helping others during times of need.

Empathy

During my final year of high school, I volunteered as a mentor in our school’s peer support program, working with younger students facing academic and social challenges. One student struggled with feelings of isolation and self-doubt, initially finding it hard to open up. By actively listening, reflecting their emotions, and imagining their perspective, I built trust and created a safe space for them to express themselves. Over time, they grew more confident, and seeing their progress reinforced the importance of empathy in fostering meaningful connections. This experience not only helped the student but also deepened my understanding of others and myself, making empathy a lifelong skill I strive to nurture.

Empathy

My whole life through meeting and having relationships with many friends.

Empathy