How did Sakura Science Plan play a role in your study / research in Japan?

In Sakura Science Plan, I was introduced to many innovative scientific researches being conducted in universities and research institutes. Additionally, I was also given special lectures by Nobel Laureate in Physics, Dr. Toshihide Masukawa on “Today’s Science and Society”. It was a great honor for me to engage in direct contact with Japan’s leading-edge science and technology experts through visits to universities and research institutions. After the trip, I understand more about Japan’s high level of commitment to science and technology as well as some main points of Japanese culture. Having experienced such a helpful exchange program, I was eager to come back to Japan to study. Two years later, I applied for a full-scholarship program and was admitted to School of Medicine, IUHW International university of health and welfare.

Please describe your comments freely related to your life in Japan.

I spend most of my time on campus studying medical subjects, participating in Basic medical research group and also club activity. I am very impressed by challenging yet active-learning environment where we are encouraged to think by ourselves, to discuss and to share our opinions with classmates. Moreover, as Japan is a modern country with high level commitment to science and technology, we study about up-to-date medical devices and technologies, and we also study and practice history taking and physical examination utilizing simulation center on campus.
To me, Japan is extremely good environment to live and study, however, we are usually under high-pressure because of long working, studying hours and high workload. For that reason, in addition to studying, my friends and I also participate in club activities to relax after school. Japan is not only famous for high technologies and living standard but also well-known for its traditional values shown in its cuisine, festivals, historical places.　

Please describe your message to people who are going to participate in this program.

Being a member of Sakura Science Plan was an eye-opening and life-changing experience to me. I was profoundly impressed and inspired by Japanese Nobel prize laureates, all the professors and friends that I met during the program. For that reason, I strongly recommend you to participate in this program, especially if you are interested in Japanese culture, its word-class technology and education system. As Japan provides more and more scholarships for international students, you can find helpful information about exchange programs, scholarships on Japanese government’s website, Japanese universities and organizations’ websites.