Midsummer Night’s Dream

I first heard about the CAMPUS Asia program through a friend who had spent time at Tokyo Tech. His stories, full of fond memories and personal growth, stayed with me. They planted a quiet dream inside me, a hope that one day I might follow in his footsteps. Although life took me in different directions and the timing was never quite right, I never let go of that dream. Finally, during my master’s program, the opportunity came, and I found myself in Professor Maeda’s lab at Tokyo Tech, ready to begin my own journey.

The experience turned out to be more than I had imagined. It wasn’t just about research or academic achievement. It was a chance to meet people with diverse backgrounds and aspirations, each with their own unique path. Through these encounters, I started to question my own ambitions, realizing that dreams don’t always have to be grand or solely focused on research. Sometimes, they can be about personal fulfillment, or simply the process of exploration.

During my two and a half months in Japan, I found space to think deeply about my future, my goals, and the kind of life I want to lead. While I haven’t found all the answers yet, this program has given me clarity and direction. Like a fleeting ‘midsummer night’s dream,’ the experience has left a lasting impact, and I carry it with me as I continue on my journey.

Participating in the Campus Asia program at Tokyo Tech has been an immensely rewarding experience. In Professor Murota’s lab, I received valuable guidance, particularly in educational research methods, which greatly enhanced my understanding of the intersection between technology and education. During the two months of the research-oriented program, I efficiently completed my study plan and received positive recognition from the professors.

With the support of my tutor and lab colleagues, I also made significant progress in improving my Japanese language skills, allowing me to engage more deeply in academic discussions and daily interactions.

Beyond the academic growth, I built lasting friendships with my fellow lab members, whose collaboration and kindness made the experience even more fulfilling. In addition to my studies, I also explored Tokyo’s famous landmarks on weekends and holidays, indulging in delicious local cuisine and experienced traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and even attended a breathtaking fireworks festival. These cultural experiences enriched my time in Japan, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the vibrant culture while creating unforgettable memories alongside my academic achievements.

Overall, my time in the Campus Asia program has been an unforgettable experience to me. The combination of rigorous research, cultural immersion, and meaningful friendships has broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to future academic endeavors.

Yiran Sun