1)      What made you participate in the program?

I joined this program for two main reasons.

First, I wanted to study abroad. I had never considered it before my third year of university due to a lack of confidence in my English. That changed in my fourth year when I joined a lab with many international students. Speaking English frequently with them made me want to improve my skills to express myself more effectively. It also inspired me to challenge myself in an English-only environment as an international student. This program was a perfect match because my only available time was the summer of my second master's year, and it offered the chance to research at a top Asian university during that period.

Second, I wanted to create future opportunities to work abroad. I will soon start my career as a data scientist at a Japanese trading company, and I am confident that the experience from this program will be a great asset if I have the chance to work overseas.

2)      What is the program about? What did you learn from the program?

I learned two major things from this program.

The first is that I am capable of thriving overseas. As my first study abroad experience, and as the only Japanese participant, it was challenging. However, I had an incredibly rewarding research life, which built my self-confidence. The experience of presenting my research in English and advancing it with a professor there is something I know will be invaluable for future international conferences and for any opportunity to work abroad.

The second thing I learned is just how incredible this program is. The support from the organizers, led by Kim Yuna, was exceptional, and I am deeply grateful. They provided funding for my housing, flights, and research, which made the entire experience incredibly affordable.

On top of that, I had the privilege of conducting world-class research at Korea's top science institute, taking weekly Korean language classes, and spending my weekends exploring the country. The professor and students in my lab were wonderfully welcoming, taking me out to eat on many occasions. I also formed strong bonds with the other participants from China and Singapore, making friends I will cherish for life. One month was barely enough time to take in everything this amazing program had to offer. It has truly been an unforgettable experience thatI will remember for my entire life.

3)      What did you like most about the program?

It is difficult to decide on the best experience. I was the only Japanese there, but I rather think it made the whole experience better. The day trip was particularly enjoyable - I really enjoyed walking through Jeonju Hanok village in Hanbok. All the members of the program looked fit and happy. The bus was also arranged by Yuna, so the transfer was smooth and very comfortable. I would like to visit there again one day with the same members, including Yuna.

4)      How do you think your experience in this program will affect your future studies and career?

I no longer feel any resistance to going abroad and communicating with people from other countries, and I am even more motivated to get in touch with more foreign countries. I made friends with many foreigners and it became my lifelong goal to have at least one friend in every country. That way I can have a guide in any country I go to. After graduation, I fear that I will not have many opportunities to speak English as I will be working in Japan for a while. Therefore, from next year I plan to move into a shared house where I can live with people from other countries and live with them. I would like to make use of the experience I have   gained from this program to change my future work and daily life into a more global one and make my life more enjoyable.