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

Sakura gave me the first chance and became a gateway for my dreams to come true. The first time I got financial support from Sakura Science Plan was for the Yosakoi Summer School in 2014. I could fully enjoy my summer school and not worry about anything because of this. It was impressive. I created many memories and friends during that time. I also learned how to perform in the Yosakoi Festival, how can I live in Japan, and how important the Japanese language. Because I had the opportunity to come to Japan for the first time, I came again in 2016 as an internship student at Kochi University of Technology. If I had never come to Japan before, my opportunity to become an internship student may have been slimmer. Now, I revisit Japan again as a master degree student. You can see how much Sakura Science change my life. It started everything and opened a big future for me. Thank you very much Sakura Science Plan, to become a gateway for my current study in Japan.

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

When I came back to Japan, I felt like I'm coming back home. I can remember all the memories that I have in here. In one side, I miss it so much. On another side, I want to explore more new places, new roads, new experiences, and new moments that I can spend in here. I'm studying computer science at the Center for Human-Engaged Computing laboratory. I am learning a lot of advanced technology and a lot of different perspectives than in my country. My professor is also very kind and nice. Every week we have a seminar, meeting, and sometimes we will talk about personal sharing or about papers. I also came to this laboratory 2 years ago for an internship. Now, I need to meet new people and try to make new friends. I also get a lot of guidance from the university's International Relation Center about how to live here. I hope I can get some scholarships for my living cost.

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

For my juniors, please try to ask more and don't be shy to everyone. You have a very big opportunity to be in here. If you don't understand anything, please ask. Don't worry about what the others think about you. Be confident, be proud of yourself, and give the best effort that you have. Also, don't forget to enjoy and making a lot of experiences in here. When you feel unmotivated or tired, remember why you are here and why you are excited to be here. Don't forget to smile and be happy.