Kansai Gaidai University Students Launch Careers with Airbus and Graduate Studies

Five students who transferred to the Faculty of International Symbiosis at Kansai Gaidai University in 2024 graduated this spring. The students received their diplomas on March 14th, and were greeted by Professor Linda Boaker, chair of the Department of International Coexistence, as they embark on their future endeavors.

Brian Florentine: From Exchange Student to Airbus Helicopters Japan

Brian Florentine, a graduate from Northern Arizona University, began his academic journey at Kansai Gaidai University as an exchange student in February 2024. He transferred to the Faculty of International Symbiosis in the fall semester of the same year, citing his growing affection for Japan and the university itself. “After entering university, I started studying Japanese and fell in love with Japan, and I fell in love with Kansai Gaidai University. I wanted to stay here until I graduate,” Florentine stated.

Initially not planning to pursue a career in Japan, Florentine’s path shifted in November of last year. While considering options in mechanical maintenance, including vocational school, a visit to the university’s career center in December led to an unexpected opportunity with Airbus Helicopter Japan. The company was seeking technical staff for maintenance roles, sparking Florentine’s interest in helicopters.

Following a selection interview and hangar tour on February 4th, Florentine received a job offer. He expressed his gratitude to the Career Center for their support, noting their “accurate support” was instrumental in his success. The Career Center highlighted Florentine’s high Japanese language ability, as well as his collaborative spirit, as key factors in his employment.

Florentine’s father, an aircraft mechanic himself, expressed pride in his son’s achievement. Florentine will be based at the Airbus Helicopter Japan office at Kobe Airport, where he will train as a helicopter maintenance professional.

Van de Wetering-Sena: Continuing Studies and Exploring Career Options

Van de Wetering-Sena arrived in Japan in August 2023 from The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. Inspired by her mother, a sushi chef, she had a long-standing interest in Japanese culture and chose Kansai Gaidai University for its diverse course offerings and opportunities for interaction with Japanese students.

Her experience at Kansai Gaidai University proved fulfilling, with classes taught in Japanese and participation in the Global Innovation Program (GIP) fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. She transferred to the Faculty of International Coexistence in February of the following year.

Sena began considering employment in Japan shortly after transferring, but initially faced challenges due to her Japanese language skills. She advises other international students to consult the Career Center early in their job search. “If any international students are even thinking about finding a job in Japan, please consult the Career Center immediately,” she said.

Sena will be attending the Graduate School of Global Studies at Doshisha University from April, where she plans to continue her research while exploring career opportunities in marketing and the bridal industry. She also expressed a desire to pursue a career in academia.

The graduates received their diplomas from Professor Boaker at the Tanimoto Memorial Auditorium on the Hirakata Chugu Campus. Professor Boaker expressed her joy in having worked with the talented students, as they move forward into their future careers.