From The Field | 2008-15
2008-2011 | Paul Iliffe | Tokyo Institute of Technology
Japanese Government (MEXT) Postgraduate Scholarship
at Tokyo Institute of Technology (Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)
from April 2008 to September 2011
The fundamental reason why I chose to study in Japan was because I wanted to learn about something new. At the time I was eager to undertake a PhD in the field of astronautics, which is the study of how things fly in space. The United States, Germany, France, and Italy, amongst several other countries boast strong heritage in space programmes and research. However, I felt that my knowledge of space-activities in Japan should be improved. Japan is one of the leading nations in space-activities, boasts a module on the International Space Station, an internationally competitive space- industry, and plentiful research in the field. Furthermore, I was eager to see a new place, to learn a new language, and to experience a new culture.
My method of finding a suitable place to study in Japan was to go through a list of universities and search for laboratories that focussed on astronautical research. I wrote to several professors, discussed the possibility of studying under their supervision, and finally agreed with Prof. Matsunaga at the Tokyo Institute of Technology. Once in Japan I discovered a website which lists many of the laboratories in Japan that study space-related fields. This could be useful for people who are searching for similar opportunities: http://www.unisec.jp/member/university- e.html
When I first arrived in Japan, I spoke no Japanese. The community of international students at my dormitory and at the university were very helpful in helping me to adjust to life there, to learn about Japan and to learn Japanese. The Japanese students were also very supportive and encouraging when people made an effort to speak Japanese. I joined the university gymnastics club which was a nice way to socialise with Japanese students and to improve my language ability. Learning Japanese was an enjoyable process, of course difficult at times, but a rewarding one.
Whilst I lived in Japan I stayed in three places over the three and a half years that I was there. Firstly, I lived in a dormitory for international students, thereafter I shared a flat with three friends (an Indonesian, a Bulgarian, and a Columbian), and finally I rented my own apartment close to the university.
Above all my experience in Japan helped me to broaden my mind. My reason for going was to do this, but I learnt more than I expected. I came to understand more about space activities, research methods and research strategy. I also learnt about Japanese society, its language, country and culture. The experience has built a strong connection between Japan and me which I hope to keep and develop through time.
Before leaving for Japan, I recommend students who are going to study in Japan to do some background reading in their field of study and also into Japan. Learning some Japanese will help in life there and can help international students to feel better integrated into their daily lives in Japan.