Moving to Japan after graduation: scholarships, self-funding studies, work

Hi everyone, I’d like to ask for some advice about my near future and I’d really appreciate any insights!

I’m currently finishing my degree in Japanese Studies in Italy, and I’m planning to apply for the MEXT scholarship this year (embassy recommendation). My main goal now is to move to Japan for a master’s degree.

I already did a study abroad semester in Osaka where I met my current girlfriend, and I’m aiming to take the JLPT N1 by the end of this year. My academic performance is quite solid, but of course I know the competition for MEXT is quite high.

So if I don’t manage to get the MEXT scholarship, I’m still planning to try other private scholarships and as a last resort, I’d even consider self-funding my studies while working part-time in Japan.

What I’d really like to ask is: how realistic and advisable is this plan?

Since my academic background is in Japanese Studies, if I continue studying in Japan it would likely be in a similar field, and I’m aware that this is not necessarily the strongest path in terms of career opportunities.

At the same time, I’m also considering a different option: going to Japan and using that opportunity to expand my skill set by studying something different or switching fields, for example moving into business, communication, or other more practical areas.

So I’d really appreciate any advice on this as well: would it make sense to pivot academically while in Japan, or would that be too difficult?

I know this might sound a bit naive, but at the moment my main goal is simply to move to Japan and start building a foundation for a future there. Because of that, I don’t have a very rigid plan yet, I’m open to different paths such as a master’s degree, research programs, or other academic opportunities.

The issue is and I’m fully aware of it that, realistically speaking, my current background doesn’t give me many concrete skills beyond language proficiency. So I understand that, from an objective point of view, my expectations might not be very solid.

However, right now what matters most to me is being able to return to Japan and gain experience in any way, whether in an academic setting or just through work.

So I’d really like to ask, especially those of you who have already gone through something similar, what would you do in my situation? (Also, if anyone has experience with alternative scholarships, changing fields in Japan, or self-funded study, I’d really appreciate hearing your thoughts! )

Thanks in advance!