A Warm Welcome: S-TISA Hosts Science Tokyo’s Spring Welcome Party
On May 16, 2025, the Science Tokyo International Students' Association (S-TISA) hosted its second welcome party at Hisao & Hiroko Taki Plaza. Following the success of the inaugural event held in autumn last year, this spring edition drew even greater attention, welcoming around 230 international students.
This event was made possible thanks to the full support and collaboration of the S-TISA Council, dedicated event team volunteers, and constant help from the Student Support Division.
The party started by introducing S-TISA, sharing what they do, and inviting everyone to join future events to help make the international student community more fun and supportive.
As the ice breaker, the event began with a fun 30-minute twist on the classic game Bingo. This was an engaging and interactive way for participants to meet new people from diverse backgrounds and initiate meaningful conversations. Prizes such as Science Tokyo merchandise were handed out to the winners.
A large world map was also displayed, allowing participants to place stickers to indicate where they come from. This simple yet meaningful activity beautifully showcased the diversity of the international community and served as a reminder of the journey taken to be together in this space.
To add more excitement to the event, a special Aikido performance was held by the university's official Aikido Club. Given the large number of international students among the club members, the performance was particularly engaging. Showcasing elements of club activities and culture in this way will inspire international students.
Afterwards, welcome speeches were given by President and Chief Academic Officer (CAO) Yujiro Tanaka and Tokyo Tech Alumni Association President Kiyoto Ido, who both shared encouraging words with the new international students, leaving a deep impression on all of them.
Following that, it was time to eat. A variety of food options were provided by Tsubame Co-op, with special attention to participants' needs, including religious dietary restrictions (such as Halal) and food allergies. Enjoying good food together made the atmosphere more relaxed and fun, encouraging conversations and making the evening even more enjoyable.
Comments from S-TISA Event team
Shambhava Sood from India (PR team leader, Event MC)
3rd year Bachelor’s, Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering
This year, I had the chance to try something new by being the MC at S-TISA’s Spring Welcome Party. It was a gratifying experience that allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds among both the participants and those working quietly behind the scenes. My role was to keep the event moving ahead, but more importantly, I hoped to help create a space where people felt comfortable enough to talk, share, and enjoy each other’s company. Simple moments, like a Bingo game leading to real conversations or chatting with postgraduate students over food, made the evening feel special. I was reminded of how important it is to make room for connection, especially when so many of us are far from home and looking for a sense of belonging.
Nabilah Hannani from Indonesia (Event committee leader)
2nd year PhD, Graduate Major in Human Centered Science and Biomedical Engineering
This Welcome Party was my second time participating as part of the event team. Despite the responsibilities I had, I truly enjoyed being part of this event — it brought international students together and gave them a warm welcome to our university. I’m looking forward to more S-TISA events in the future.
Ayoob Ilyas from India (Chief Coordinator)
4th year Bachelor’s, Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering
It was my 6th time being in the WP team and the first time with TMDU-based participants. The party was overwhelming — we had over 300 registrants and about 230 participants — so Taki Plaza B2 was at its limit. The Aikido club performed this time, which I thought turned out great. Some elements could have been improved, such as the photo and food line organization, but it worked out in the end. We do read all the feedback and are trying our best to improve. Thank you for joining us and looking forward to seeing everybody at the next one.
Contact
Click on the link below to make an inquiry to International Student Support Group.
International Student Support Group, Student Support Division
- Remarks
- Please use the form found on this page (https://forms.office.com/r/tRbt6Bf0GQ) to make inquiries.