Host institution/organization in Japan:
Kimihiko Nakano, Professor, Dr.Eng.
Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo
Maｙ-July 2019

"The internship at University of Tokyo, was a life-changing experience. I was able to try my hands at one of the most fascinating research and innovation buzz, automated driving. I was lucky enough to use driving simulators and be a part of real time automated driving experiments. The kind of support, facilities and inspiration I received from my Professor and Honda foundation was extra ordinary. However, another treasured part of this visit was the culture and life of Tokyo. Trips around Tokyo were both fun and engaging. Some moments are imprinted in my memories. Also, I was able to meet a lot of people, around my work and stay, and learn a lot about their culture. Two things about the culture which I experienced at a very personal level was humility and punctuality. A hallmark of which is the metro system. To see trains, reach on the exact strike of the second was out of world. Learning the Japanese language was a bit difficult at first, just like the chopsticks. But soon I felt endeared by the language and people. the work culture is driven by passion rather than any specific reward, and my guides were deeply inspiring. At the same time, I could find remarkable freedom in carrying out my own research. I would love to come here for further studies. Finally, it would be unfair not to mention, the merry time I had shopping around the streets of Ginza, Shinjuku and Akihabara. I believe The Honda YES plus is life time opportunity, that should be grabbed with both hands. Thankful to Honda Foundation for this award."