Today, I would like to share my journey from Myanmar to Science Tokyo and reflect on the experiences that have shaped me as an international graduate student in Japan.
A dream that began in Myanmar
My interest in studying in Japan began when I was an undergraduate student in Myanmar. Several of my professors had studied in Japan, and I was inspired by their stories about Japanese education, research environments, and technological advancement. Listening to their experiences made me curious about Japan and planted a dream in my mind: one day, I wanted to continue my studies there.
After graduating from Yangon Technological University (YTU), I immediately enrolled in a master’s program. During this period, I learned about the Okazaki Kaheita International Scholarship Foundation. Receiving this scholarship became a turning point in my life. It opened the door to opportunities that I had only imagined and brought me one step closer to achieving my dream of studying in Japan.
Leaving my family, friends, and familiar surroundings was not an easy decision. At the same time, I felt excited about the possibility of experiencing a new culture, new cuisine, learning a new language, and challenging myself in a completely different environment. With all those emotions, I took my first-ever international flight to pursue my dream.
My first year in Japan
On March 28, 2024, I arrived in Japan.
Although I was very excited, I was also nervous. Everything felt new, from the language and transportation system to daily life and social customs. Simple tasks that many people take for granted, such as completing administrative procedures or navigating train stations, felt challenging at first.
Before entering graduate school, I spent one year studying Japanese at the Tokyo Japanese Language Education Center (JASSO). During that time, I learned Japanese from the ground up while simultaneously preparing my application for graduate studies at Science Tokyo. Looking back, this period played an important role in helping me adapt to life and academics in Japan.
Studying Japanese was not always easy. There were times when I struggled to express myself or fully understand conversations. However, each small improvement gave me confidence. Beyond language learning, I was also learning how to live independently in Japan and adapt to a different culture.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this period was meeting people from different countries. Through classes, cultural activities, and scholarship events, I built friendships with students from diverse backgrounds. These interactions broadened my perspective and helped me understand the value of cultural exchange.
Becoming a student at Science Tokyo
After a year of studying Japanese and adapting to life in Japan, I was finally ready to take the next step toward my goal.
In April 2025, I entered the master’s program at the Institute of Science Tokyo.
Starting graduate school was another significant milestone. Compared to language school, the academic environment required a different level of commitment and responsibility. I joined a research laboratory and began researching waste management and sustainability. My current research focuses on understanding how human behavior influences waste-related problems.
Life as a graduate student has been both challenging and rewarding. Research often requires patience, critical thinking, and persistence. There are times when experiments or analyses do not go as planned, and there are moments when deadlines feel overwhelming. However, these experiences have taught me how to approach problems systematically and continue learning even when progress seems slow.
I am also grateful for the support I have received from my professors, laboratory members, classmates, and friends. Their guidance and encouragement have played an important role in helping me adapt to academic life in Japan.
Finding growth beyond the classroom
When people think about studying abroad, they often focus on academics. However, my experience has taught me that studying abroad is also a journey of personal growth.
Going to new places also made my life more enjoyable. I always looked forward to exploring new places and planning weekend trips. These experiences allowed me to learn more about Japan while creating unforgettable memories. Living in a foreign country has helped me become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It has taught me how to communicate across cultures and how to build meaningful relationships with people from different backgrounds.
Like many international students, I have experienced moments of uncertainty and homesickness. During those times, I realized the importance of having people I could rely on. Whether it was a friend offering encouragement, a teacher providing advice, or members of the scholarship foundation supporting students, these connections helped me move forward.
These experiences have reminded me that success is not achieved alone. Behind every achievement are people who quietly provide support, guidance, and encouragement along the way.
Looking ahead
If you are thinking about studying abroad, I would like to encourage you not to be afraid of taking the first step. The journey may include challenges, uncertainties, and unexpected obstacles, but it can also bring valuable experiences, meaningful friendships, and opportunities for growth.
Looking back, the path from Myanmar to Science Tokyo has been longer and more complex than I originally imagined. Yet every step—from receiving a scholarship, to studying Japanese, to becoming a graduate student—has contributed to making me the person I am today. The dream that began in Myanmar has taken me farther than I ever imagined, and I look forward to continuing this journey at Science Tokyo.
I am excited to see where the next chapter of this journey will lead.
