Living Groups

Soshigaya International House and Arrupe International Residence are both operated as shared-style international dormitories, where students from diverse backgrounds live together.In these two residences, living groups are formed as the fundamental residential communities in order to support students’ personal growth through communal living in a diverse environment. All residents belong to one of these living groups, and facilities such as kitchens are managed as shared spaces.

Living Group Meetings

Within each living group, a meeting attended by all members is held once a month. At these meetings, residents discuss matters related to communal living, such as the use of shared spaces that are essential to daily life, as well as dormitory events. In addition to discussions, group activities may also be conducted, making these meetings an important opportunity for communication among participants.

LGL Living Group Leader

Each living group at Sophia Soshigaya International House and Arrupe International Residence has an appointed Living Group Leader (hereinafter referred to as “LGL”). As representatives of the residents, LGLs provide support to new residents upon their move-in and plan exchange events within the dormitory, thereby contributing to the development of dormitory culture. In addition, they work in collaboration with dormitory managers and the Center for Student Affairs to provide support that ensures residents can live safely and comfortably.

While each resident in Sophia Dormitory is expected to take an active and independent role in the community, LGLs, as leaders, play a key role in facilitating and supporting these daily activities of the residents.

Sophia Edagawa Men’s Dormitory, while consisting of single-room units, also places importance on interaction among residents. To promote and lead engagement across the entire dormitory, certain residents are appointed as LGLs. Through organizing a variety of activities each month, LGLs foster interaction among residents and strive to cultivate a strong dormitory culture.

LGL Training

Training sessions are held each semester for individuals beginning their activities as LGLs. In these sessions, participants learn about the mindset expected of an LGL as well as skills useful for leadership activities, such as communication, team building, and project management, through a combination of lectures by instructors, group work, and presentations. In addition, LGLs engage in the planning, development, and preparation of an event schedule for the entire semester.

The LGL training sessions are conducted jointly across all dormitories and also provide opportunities for interaction beyond individual residences. LGLs are expected not only to carry out their roles individually, but also to collaborate with one another to develop activities that involve the dormitory community as a whole. Accordingly, these training sessions serve as an important opportunity to strengthen connections among LGLs.

How to Become an LGL

LGLs are appointed on a semester basis. Residents become eligible to apply starting from the semester following their move-in. Recruitment takes place each semester, and candidates are selected from among the applicants and appointed by the Director of Center for Student Affairs. Many residents continue their LGL activities across multiple semesters.

Sophia Dormitory welcomes residents who are willing to actively commit to dormitory life as LGLs.
Why not take on the challenge yourself?