2025 University of Tokyo Summer School Report
Conner McKillop
It’s easy to get swept up in the fast pace of life, constantly chasing the next milestone and forgetting to slow down, to notice the beauty in the everyday, and to appreciate the smaller moments. For me, the University of Tokyo Summer School offered that much-needed pause. It was a breath of fresh air nestled in the rolling hills of Yugawara and framed by the sweeping seas of Atami. Geographically, it was picturesque but more importantly, it offered something deeper, an opportunity to learn from and build meaningful friendships with people from all over the world.
From the moment I arrived at Haneda Airport, the transition into life in Japan felt seamless. With step-by-step instructions from the organising committee in hand, I felt not only prepared but genuinely excited to embrace whatever lay ahead. That sense of readiness deepened as I met the other international students and our student guides from the University of Tokyo. Just a day earlier, these individuals had been complete strangers living thousands of kilometers away, yet connecting with them felt natural and effortless. What was supposed to be a one day paid stint for our student guides, turned into a week long unpaid commitment, sustained not by obligation, but a sense of friendship – or so they tell me.
As the Summer School progressed, those early connections began to flourish. Our small, close-knit group chat gradually expanded to over twenty members, as more students found the confidence to step out of their shells and engage. Casual hallway remarks often sparked extended conversations, and with such a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, meaningful dialogue was never far away. Over time, the highlight of my days shifted from learning the interesting Summer School content, to meeting new people and deepening the friendships I had formed.
This year’s Summer School centered around the theme “Introduction to US Law.” While I initially had some reservations about this topic, I found that the curriculum was thoughtfully designed for students from civil law backgrounds, many of whom may not have had prior exposure to the intricacies of the United States legal system. Covering a broad spectrum of topics – from federalism and income taxation to press freedom – the program offered a comprehensive overview that was both accessible and intellectually engaging. Cognizant of the programs’ time limitations, the lectures were thoughtfully condensed and provided participants with a high-level foundational understanding of key legal considerations relevant to anyone whose future career might involve legal interactions with the United States.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Summer School to anyone considering applying. The experience was deeply rewarding, and the professors and fellow students were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly approachable and supportive.