Pursuing the college motto—"Love Thy God, Love Thy Neighbor," Kobe College seeks to provide an environment and education based on Christian principles that nurture individuals who understand their role in their environment and can act upon it, without being swayed by the trend of the times, thinking beyond personal interests, discerning what is truly important for humanity, with genuine empathy for others.
The college insignia of a three-leaf clover represents the tripartite development of body, mind, and spirit. Kobe College seeks to nurture "liberated individuals"—women with open minds, flexible thinking, and sound judgment.
Since its establishment in 1875, Kobe College has valued education in global understanding. Students are encouraged to enhance their understanding by developing their English proficiency by participating in study abroad programs and interacting with people from foreign universities and organizations.
In keeping with the school motto "Love Thy God, Love Thy Neighbor," Kobe College continues the legacy of Christian-based education. Students are expected to see the gifts God has given them and use them, individually and with others, in response to God's call on their lives.
As a college that values small-group instruction, faculty and staff at Kobe College make academic and personal support available to international students. International students have ample opportunity to interact with Japanese students and experience Japanese culture.
In the buddy system, Japanese students are paired up with international students to help them get used to their new environment and settle in at school. The "buddy" can help with things such as welcoming a student at the airport, assisting in address registration, applying for health insurance, signing up for a cell-phone contract, shopping, and registering for university classes. The buddies also plan events such as Tanabata parties and Christmas parties, providing fun opportunities for international students to know Japanese students. Generally, these "buddies" are the first Japanese friend's international students make.
Called "KC Guides," a group of Japanese students gives tours to international students and faculty from affiliated institutions around campus and Nishinomiya city. They also escort guests around Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto, introducing the history and culture of the places they visit in English.
The homestay program allows international students to experience Japanese life by spending time in a Japanese student's home on weekends (for short-term international students) or during the holidays (for long-term international students). Kobe College will make every effort to make the best student–family match before the student arrived in Japan.
The on-campus Mary and Grace Stowe Dormitories have 179 single rooms (each with a toilet). Each room is furnished with a desk, bookshelf, bed, dresser, refrigerator, and an air conditioner. Residents are free to use communal kitchens, lounges, showers, and baths. The matron, who speaks English, is always present to answer questions international students may have.
A dormitory for international students opened in 2012. It is situated very conveniently by Kobe College's main gate. Residents of this house enjoy the magnificent beauty of Okadayama's seasons—the cherry blossoms of spring, dark-green leaves of summer, and tinted foliage of fall.
The English Zone is an English-only room open to anyone who wants to speak English. International students, Japanese students, and English-speaking instructors drop by between classes for informal conversation. The room has also become a base for various volunteer activities.
International exchange students with outstanding academic performance may receive scholarships from JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) or HUMAP (Hyogo University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific) during their exchange period at Kobe College. For further information, contact Kobe College International Programs Center.
