Beyond Borders: How My Dual Degree Shaped Me

Global Insights, Regional Impact: My Role at MUFG

I chose to join MUFG Bank’s Asia Planning Office because of my strong interest in regional strategy and corporate finance. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) is Japan’s largest bank and ranks as the ninth-largest financial institution globally by total assets. Its Singapore branch, serving as the APAC regional headquarters, provides an ideal environment for engaging in high-level regional management and strategic planning.

In my role, I am responsible for analysing the performance of regional branches and functions, developing strategic initiatives, and coordinating directly with Tokyo headquarters and APAC offices. This global exposure aligns with my academic background in the Dual Degree Program at Ritsumeikan University and the Australian National University, where I gained a deep understanding of Asia-Pacific economies and developed cross-cultural communication skills. These skills have been crucial in navigating the complexities of regional management and formulating strategies that resonate across diverse markets.

Beyond Borders: How My Dual Degree Shaped Me

The four-year journey was intense yet deeply enriching. The Dual Degree Program pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program exposed me to two distinct academic systems, cultural perspectives, and learning methodologies. The first two years were primarily shaped by remote learning, travel restrictions, and adapting to an unpredictable world, all of which helped me develop resilience, adaptability, and self-discipline.

Despite the challenges, the program offered a unique blend of academic and cultural insights. At Ritsumeikan, I honed my critical thinking and adaptability through a liberal arts curriculum, while ANU provided a rigorous foundation in Asia-Pacific affairs, economics, and regional strategy. Balancing coursework across two universities required effective time management, resilience, and cross-cultural communication skills—all of which have been invaluable in my career at MUFG Bank.

Looking back, this journey shaped both my academic and professional growth, equipping me with the ability to thrive in diverse environments and global industries. Overcoming the challenges of COVID-19 while pursuing two degrees made the experience even more rewarding, reinforcing my commitment to continuous learning and global engagement.

The World is a Classroom: Learning from Cultural Contrasts

Cultural shock was not a one-time event during my dual degree journey—it was a daily occurrence, and that made it all the more exciting. Whether it was adjusting to the debate-heavy discussions at ANU or adapting to a learning environment at Ritsumeikan that emphasized structured discussions and careful reasoning, every day brought new perspectives, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

One moment that stood out was a group project on economic policies. At Ritsumeikan, discussions followed a structured and thoughtful approach, with an emphasis on careful reasoning and respectful exchanges. At ANU, group work was fast-paced, filled with debates where interrupting to challenge ideas wasn’t seen as rude—it was encouraged. The shift was overwhelming at first, but over time, it became clear: different ways of thinking don’t clash—they complement.

What started as cultural shocks became daily lessons in adaptability and open-mindedness. From classroom discussions to casual conversations, these experiences shaped the way I approach global challenges today. The ability to see beyond cultural differences and find value in diverse perspectives has been one of the most valuable takeaways from this incredible journey.

Choosing Ritsumeikan University’s Global Liberal Arts (GLA) program means stepping into a truly international learning environment. Be ready to challenge yourself, think critically, and engage with diverse perspectives from students and professors from across the globe. As part of the dual degree program with ANU, you will experience two distinct academic systems, cultural settings, and ways of thinking—preparing you for a global career.

The journey won’t always be easy, but it will surely be transformative. Stay open-minded, embrace different cultures, and see every challenge as an opportunity to grow. This is more than just earning two degrees—it’s a journey beyond borders. Are you ready to take the first step?