Host institution/organization in Japan:
International Course in Social Informatics,
Graduate School of Informatics
Kyoto University
October 2015－September 2017

Since I was young, I have always admired Japan for its technology advancement and its sophisticated culture. I have never thought I eventually have a chance to visit as well as studying my Master’s degree here in Kyoto. After arriving Japan, I think my first impression toward this country has gradually changed. I first thought Japan has a very strict culture with so many customs and rules of living, but later on, I found that these are the core values and unique points of this country. I gradually changed my perception and got to understand more about this country and its people. Life in Japan is so neat and organized (even though I sometimes feel like it is too organized for me), which makes it very safe and comfortable for living. Actually, Y-E-S Award program is the starting point of my strong interest and curiosity about Japan. Thanks to Y-E-S program, I have a chance to explore my obscure passion and make a good decision to pursue my Master’s degree in Kyoto University. A part of my decision-making in pursuing higher education in Japan is attributed to the opportunity to go to Tokyo as a preparatory committee member of the first Honda Y-E-S Forum 2015 as it gave me a clear image of Japan, its society and people, and especially its great emphasis on education system. This is basically how my journey starts, and I am making the best out of my time in Japan to expand my academic world and cultivate the cultural understanding of this mysteriously sophisticated country.