UTSIP Kashiwa 2025
by Timea Jarosova This summer, I completed a 6 week internship at the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, with the Frith Lab, a computational biology lab. At my home university, I worked in a wet lab focusing on viruses, but I wanted to gain experience in genetics, one of my favourite fields. This program was the perfect opportunity. Dr. Frith and the other members of the lab were very welcoming and supported me throughout my project. I chose to analyze previously unclassified mobile genetic sequences in the human genome. Working entirely in code was new for me, which presented a fantastic challenge that helped me grow as a scientist. I was able to use several types of software to pull out genetic data from databanks and create a consensus sequence, allowing me to find more spots in the human genome where the sequence is present. I discovered a lot about the field of evolutionary biology. I was even able to attend a conference with my lab, where I met many experts in the field and heard interesting lectures. In fact, I even got inspiration for what I might want to study as a graduate student. I feel that this program hugely boosted my career, scientific ability, and introduced me to fantastic people who made the program wonderful. I am so thankful to the University of Tokyo and FUTI for the experience.
Johns Hopkins Clinical Electives
by Wakana Inumaru First of all, I’d like to thank FUTI for supporting my clinical electives abroad. I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a 4-week clinical elective at two institutions: Johns Hopkins University and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. I was a part of the pediatric surgery department and transplant surgery department consecutively, at each university. I. Pediatric Surgery at Johns Hopkins i. Daily Schedule 5:00-5:30 check on assigned patients5:30-6:15 sign out6:15-7:15 rounds7:30-10:00 surgery①10:00-10:20 review surgery① / prepare for surgery②10:20-13:00 surgery②13:00-13:20 lunch13:20-15:30 surgery③15:30-17:00 consults, emergency cases17:00-17:40 sign-out ii. Sign-out I presented assigned patients every day. During the first week, I was responsible for two patients, which increased to three in the second and third weeks, and four in the final week. iii. Rounds The pediatric surgery service typically had between 20 and 40 inpatients at any given time. Rounds usually began in the PICU, followed by the general pediatric ward and then the NICU. Since many patients (or their parents) were Spanish-speaking and many physicians were fluent in Spanish, communication was often conducted in Spanish. iv. Surgery Johns Hopkins has a very high surgical volume and a dedicated pediatric hospital building. One entire floor was reserved for pediatric surgeries, with 12 operating rooms exclusively for children. Pediatric surgeries were performed daily, averaging about three cases per day. Patients were referred from surrounding areas, with e a broad spectrum of symptoms. Some of the most memorable cases I observed included ileal atresia, esophageal atresia, bowel necrosis caused by a lactobezoar, gastroschisis repair in neonates, ovarian tumors, pelvic Ewing sarcoma, emergency splenectomy, and robotic-assisted procedures using the Da Vinci system.Additionally, about half of the pediatric surgery attendings specialized in burn and trauma care, so I was able to observe laser therapy and skin grafting for extensive burns. v. Consults At Hopkins, the pediatric surgery team was typically the first to be consulted for children presenting to the ED with trauma or burns. Assisting with CT scans and X-rays for a child who had suffered multiple fractures in a traffic accident on a Saturday was an unforgettable experience. Besides trauma cases, we were also consulted by other pediatric departments. For example, we were asked to evaluate a swollen gastrostomy site, or to determine whether a lung abscess secondary to pneumonia required drainage. I accompanied the residents on these consults and participated in the assessments. vi. Surgical Experience and Skills Development My time in the OR allowed me to significantly improve my technical skills, including assisting techniques and suturing. Before each surgery, I waited for the patient’s arrival and helped transport the bed to the OR with the anesthesia team. I assisted with tasks such as transferring the patient to the operating table and positioning them, working closely with the anesthesiologists and nurses. In the OR, I frequently served as the second assistant and helped with wound closure. I also volunteered to hold the camera during laparoscopic procedures, which attendings kindly allowed. Although I had prior exposure to some surgical techniques, this was my first opportunity to perform them repeatedly, and the hands-on experience I gained at Hopkins was invaluable—especially as a fifth-year medical student. One particularly memorable case was assisting an attending one-on-one during a posterior neck mass excision. I was given the opportunity to use the electrocautery (bovie) and perform parts of the procedure as the primary operator. Being entrusted with this level of responsibility and receiving direct instruction was a rare and extremely rewarding experience. II. Transplant Surgery at Mount Sinai i. Summary At Mount Sinai, the transplant surgery department primarily focused on liver and kidney transplants, with additional hepatobiliary procedures. When notified of available donor organs, the team would travel, often on short notice, across the East Coast, day or night, to procure them. ii. Scheduled Surgeries I had the chance to observe several scheduled procedures, including living donor kidney transplants, Whipple procedures for pancreatic cancer, liver resections for hepatocellular carcinoma, and robot-assisted cholecystectomies. Most of these were new to me, and I gained valuable exposure to both surgical and non-surgical treatment approaches for liver and pancreatic cancers. iii. Organ Procurement and Recipient Surgery When a donor became available at a nearby hospital and the team accepted the offer, we would travel by car or plane for organ procurement. This was one of the most exciting parts of the elective, with many opportunities for student involvement. I participated in three procurements and assisted in retrieving the liver and kidney, as well as closing the donor afterward. v. Surgical Experience and Skills Development Transplant surgery is a field with significant differences between the U.S. and Japan, particularly in terms of the number of available donors and frequency of recipient surgeries. Through this elective, I gained in-depth knowledge of transplant procedures, post-transplant patient care, and the use of immunosuppressive therapy. I also progressively improved my ability to assist in high-stakes, complex surgeries, contributing more confidently and effectively each day. III. Simulation Training Johns Hopkins and Mount Sinai both had a simulation center available for residents and students to practice surgical skills. I visited whenever I had time and trained on the Da Vinci robotic surgical system. The simulator was identical to the machines used in actual procedures. Given that the Da Vinci systems are extremely expensive and access to practice in Tokyo is limited, this was a rare and valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience. Acknowledgment The opportunity to participate in surgeries at two distinctly different institutions in the U.S. has given me invaluable perspectives and insights that will have a lasting impact on my future career as a surgeon. I am deeply grateful to Friends of UTokyo for their generous support of my clinical electives. This experience was truly the highlight of my student life, and it would not have been possible without your help.
Stanford Summer Session
by Seigo Hayami This summer, I participated in the Stanford Summer Session, an eight-week program that allowed me to study and experience life at Stanford University. I enrolled in CS148: Introduction to Computer Graphics and Imaging and CS229: Machine Learning. These courses not only gave me the chance to learn new things, but also allowed me to experience firsthand how classes are taught at Stanford. In CS148, I learned about the fundamental concepts of computer graphics. The course was approachable, combining lectures with group activities and culminating in a final project where we created original 3D-rendered scenes. CS 229 was more challenging. It required heavy assignments and a demanding final exam. Through the workload was tough, I gained a much deeper understanding of machine learning. Learning machine learning at Stanford was one of my goals and I am proud that I achieved it. Beyond academics, I could make so many friends from diverse backgrounds. Living in a dorm with those brilliant students was one of the most memorable experiences. We studied together, talked a lot, played sports, and traveled on weekends. These experiences gave me not only unforgettable memories but also a global network of friends. Highlights included visiting Yosemite National Park and Los Angeles, as well as joining summer school-organized activities like amusement park trips, a soccer game, and a bay cruise. These experiences gave me not only unforgettable memories but also a global network of friends. Overall, I had a really good time at Stanford. It challenged me academically, enriched me culturally, and built connections. I am deeply grateful to FUTI for providing me with this opportunity.
Harvard Summer Program
by Lanxuan Gao I attended Harvard Summer School from July 14th to August 1st, 2025. I sincerely appreciate the financial support of Friends of UTokyo during this program. This program was also a GLP GEfIL Abroad program, in which students are required to join a summer school or similar international program once a year. I first found Harvard Summer School in the document provided by the GLP office in UTokyo. I took the class “Entrepreneurship from the Perspective of Business and Intellectual Property Law.” There were two main purposes for this program: 1) Understand and familiarize myself with the concept of intellectual property (IP) and laws regarding it. 2) Meet PhD students in Boston to understand their situation and life. My major at UTokyo is physics, so it might seem strange for me to take a class about IP law. This is strongly related to my dream of creating usable quantum computers for society. Quantum computing is a state-of-the-art technology and requires intensive research and efforts. However, I have heard that in such a tech area, disputes regarding IPs often happen. One example I remember is the dispute between Nichia Corporation and Shuji Nakamura, the inventor of the blue LED. I wanted to first get familiar with the concept of IPs and the laws regarding them, which might help me, my company, and my lab in the future to avoid these kinds of conflicts. The second purpose is about my desire to acquire a PhD degree in the US. I have been considering pursuing a PhD degree in the US for years because of its strong and superior research power and the close collaboration between industry and academia. So I thought it was a good opportunity to visit labs in person, directly asking PhD students about the environment and the research they have there. Besides, Boston has one of the greatest communities and people doing research in quantum computing, so I really wanted to see them. Trying to achieve these two goals, my days in Boston mainly consisted of two schedules: 1.Attend the class and do assignments. 2.Meet and talk to PhD students in Boston. Life in Boston was full of wonderfulness, comfort, passion, and new findings. I had classes from 3–6 pm, four days a week from Monday to Thursday. The building of our classroom was somewhat separated from Harvard Yard, which is the main campus of Harvard College, but it was around a five-minute walk from the place. Every day, we were given some readings about legal cases and basic ideas about IPs, including patent, copyright, and trademark. One of the cases that strongly impressed me was the dispute between Mark Zuckerberg and ConnectU. In 2004, Harvard students Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss and Divya Narendra sued Mark Zuckerberg, alleging he broke an oral agreement to help build their social networking site, ConnectU (originally HarvardConnection, to connect Harvard students like a dating app), and instead used their idea and code to create Facebook. Zuckerberg was just hired part-time by ConnectU then and there was no signed contract. Everything was just oral and informal. As a result, the case was settled in 2008 when Facebook agreed to pay $20 million in cash and transfer over a million shares to the plaintiffs. Obviously, they could have gotten more if they had had a formal contract. This was a good example for me to remember that it is always important to have formal documents when creating any kind of IP. Besides, what made this case more interesting to me is the fact that it just happened at Harvard. It turned out that the plaintiffs actually gave a complaint to Harvard originally, which was rejected by Harvard. This case later also resulted in a more detailed rule about IP at Harvard. There was also a mock trial at the end of the course. Students were divided into groups to represent an individual or the lawyers of the individual in a copyright infringement case. All the groups were given documents about the general information of the case and some evidence, e.g., the defendant’s diary, network history, and computer disk history. However, there was not direct evidence of an illegal download of songs by the defendant. The process of the trial was like a detective story. We were required to discover who downloaded them with only a limited amount of information. This also impressed me, as it showed that it is sometimes very difficult to prove an infringement. Other than the class, I had the opportunity to visit labs in Harvard and MIT. Boston is highly renowned for the research of cold atom systems, an area of physics ideal for quantum computers. I could meet more than ten PhD students there. I asked them mainly about their research and, especially important now, funding. Funding cuts are a serious problem for many universities in the US now, especially in Harvard, so I was very fortunate to be able to hear the real situation in person. These experiences definitely help me refine the plan for my future. Achieving these two goals, I am now confident that I am able to achieve my goal of creating quantum computers usable in real society. Again, I express my greatest gratitude to Friends of UTokyo, who helped make my dream come true.
University of Tokyo’s Quark Nuclear Science Institute
by Samuel Degen This summer, I had the wonderful opportunity to pursue research in Japan as a part of the 2025 University of Tokyo Research Internship Program (UTRIP). With support from Friends of UTokyo, Inc. (FUTI), I worked at the University of Tokyo’s Quark Nuclear Science Institute, helping initiate a new collaboration between UCLA, the University of Tokyo, and Chongqing University. Together, we began to develop a theoretical benchmark and connection to experiment for a promising approach to describing the many-body nature of nuclear matter. My time in Tokyo greatly expanded how I view the global nature of science, prompted deep reflection on my own character and biases, and inspired me to pursue a path as an international leader in communicating theoretical physics in a rapidly changing academic world. When studying Japanese at UCLA, I became captivated by Japan’s rich cultural landscape and was determined to one day experience it firsthand. Though I did not have the means to explore through travel alone, I wondered if I could combine that interest with my research ambitions as I prepare for a career as a professor. With FUTI’s support, the opportunity to realize this unique combination was profoundly meaningful. My graduate coursework and prior research experiences had prepared me technically, but the process of identifying a research group, securing funding, and independently launching a new project abroad built a confidence I had never felt before. One of my long-term goals is to use modern tools to connect fundamental theory with observable phenomena, so I found an excellent match with the work Haozhao Liang pursues in nuclear theory at the University of Tokyo. The project itself addresses a central challenge in modern physics: developing a unified, microscopic understanding of quantum many-body systems. The framework we explored, known as the “Functional Renormalization Group-aided Density Functional Theory,” could help connect the fundamental interactions of quarks and gluons to measurable properties of complex quantum systems. Potential applications include reliable predictions for advanced reactors, explaining the origin of heavy elements in the universe, understanding neutron star properties relevant for next-generation gravitational wave observations and dark matter searches, ultracold atom experiments, and more. My work at the Quark Nuclear Science Institute applied this framework to an experimentally realizable model that can serve as a benchmark for new theories – helping bridge this promising fundamental theory with experimental observables for the first time. I first presented this work at the conclusion of UTRIP in Tokyo, and later when invited to speak at UCLA’s Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates. As we move toward publication, I am continuing to share this research internationally: next at the APS Far West Section conference (October 2025), then the APS Global Physics Summit (March 2026) – the largest physics conference in the world. Working in a multilingual research group taught me how essential clear communication is for effective collaboration. Leading discussions with colleagues whose first language was not English challenged me to express complex ideas in multiple ways. These experiences honed my ability to convey scientific ideas across linguistic and cultural barriers – a skill that I plan to carry with me as I seek out further leadership roles in global scientific discussions. Before this experience, I had already learned the value of communicating theory abroad – due in large part to previous talks at international meetings, such as a research presentation last year at the largest conference on plasma physics and a mathematical physics lecture earlier in the summer in Canada. However, the vastly different scientific and cultural backgrounds of those involved in UTRIP showed me the importance of identifying and communicating the broader impact of my work as well. As a result, I developed a better sense of how to share my research so that it may be appreciated by non-experts and even inspire cross-disciplinary discussion. Undertaking this research independently in a foreign country gave me a glimpse of what a global career in science can feel like. My personal growth and the opportunities to share this work across borders has shown me that aspiring to be a global leader in communicating theoretical physics is achievable through experiences such as this – and only possible due to the generous support of funding agencies like Friends of UTokyo. Since returning to UCLA, I have built on this momentum by beginning a project that uses field theory to model how environmental effects near black holes influence gravitational-wave signals. In the coming academic year, I am continuing our international collaboration and pursuing this new project thanks to the crucial support of FUTI, the Mani L. Bhaumik Institute for Theoretical Physics, and UCLA’s Undergraduate Research Scholars Program. I am also refining my skills in communicating the broader impacts of my research by seeking out speaking opportunities, such as my upcoming talk on the new UCLA project at the California Amplitudes Meeting (November 2025). Reflecting on my summer in Japan, I see how much this experience shaped both my character and my aspirations. I am more aware of the cultural perspectives that shape scientific collaboration and more determined to create spaces where international dialogue can thrive. I am deeply grateful to have been able to build collaborations and share ideas across borders at a time when it seems many are intent on raising new ones. I hope to return to the University of Tokyo in the future. Above all, I am thankful to FUTI for enabling me to grow not only as a researcher but as a communicator, collaborator, and aspiring global leader in theoretical physics. — Learn more about my research and ongoing projects at samdegen.com
Reflective Journey: An Exploration at Yale University’s Summer Session
by Nao Sumi I, Nao Sumi, harbored the esteemed privilege to immerse myself in the world-renowned academic environment of Yale University during its Summer Session, a journey generously supported by the FUTI scholarship. With a thirst for knowledge and a quest for intellectual enrichment, I opted for two diverse yet intensely informative courses: Computer Science 50 (CS50) and Disinformation and Democracy. The compelling academic vigor of Yale University and its multicultural tapestry promised insights beyond traditional learning paradigms. Firstly, embarking on CS50 was akin to navigating a labyrinth of computational knowledge, where each session unraveled novel concepts and methodologies. The intricate tapestry of programming languages, algorithms, and extensive assignments shaped my computational acumen, infusing a structured approach to problem-solving and analytical thinking. Secondly, delving into the intricate realms of Disinformation and Democracy was enlightening. This course meticulously unraveled the complexities of information warfare, traversing the landscape from the Cold War’s “active measures” by the KGB to the modern-day Putin regime’s intricate web of propaganda. The focus was not merely on theoretical exposition but also on contextual understanding, dissecting Russia’s interference in U.S. elections and examining the multifaceted repercussions of disinformation campaigns facilitated by social media. I learned to scrutinize the intricate interplay between cognitive biases and information manipulation and to discern the vulnerabilities inherent within American society, heightened by social media and exploited by external entities. The course culminated in an exploration of practical policy solutions aimed at mitigating the impacts of disinformation on democratic establishments, enhancing my proficiency in applying social capital theory and devising innovative strategies to combat information warfare. The amalgamation of theoretical frameworks and practical insights from both courses has broadened my intellectual horizons, equipping me with multifaceted perspectives. I honed my analytical acuity, developed a nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics between technology, information, and democracy, and forged a resilient approach to tackling unprecedented challenges in the evolving global landscape. The teaching methodologies at Yale emphasized meticulous preparation and fostered an environment ripe for intellectual discourse. The interaction with professors and peers was enlightening, prompting me to refine my thoughts and elucidate my viewpoints succinctly. The reciprocal exchange of ideas and the shared quest for knowledge have been monumental in sculpting my academic and personal development. The unprecedented academic rigor and the diverse pool of intellectual minds at Yale transcended my expectations. The fusion of theoretical knowledge, extensive discussions, real-world applications, and the relentless pursuit of excellence have been pivotal in shaping my academic journey, revealing unexplored territories of knowledge, and presenting a holistic panorama of learning experiences. Beyond academics, the Summer Session was a confluence of cultures, fostering international camaraderie. My interactions with students from the Yale-National University of Singapore and other corners of the world enriched my cultural palette, providing a myriad of perspectives and broadening my worldview. The symphony of diverse thoughts, languages, and traditions was a celebration of global unity, reinforcing the importance of mutual respect and understanding in our interconnected world. In addition, immersing myself in American culture was a journey of self-discovery. The nuanced dynamics of the American lifestyle, the pursuit of work-life balance, and the essence of personal and academic growth were profound learning curves. The availability of a comprehensive support system and a plethora of culinary delights accentuated my stay, offering glimpses into the vibrant tapestry of American life. Most importantly, my journey at Yale would not have materialized without the benevolent support of the FUTI Scholarship. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment to fostering intellectual growth and global perspectives. Their support has been a beacon of hope, illuminating my path towards academic excellence and cultural enrichment. My odyssey at Yale University’s Summer Session, woven with the threads of the FUTI Scholarship, has been a transformative amalgamation of intellectual pursuits, cultural assimilations, and self-revelation. The fusion of rigorous academics, global friendships, and cultural exchanges has meticulously reshaped my worldview, refined my aspirations and fortified my resolve to contribute to the global tapestry of knowledge and humanity. My journey has been a beacon, illuminating uncharted territories of knowledge and culture, and it is my fervent hope that the insights gleaned from this enriching sojourn will resonate with my peers and contemporaries, inspiring a relentless pursuit of knowledge, mutual respect, and global unity. The multifaceted learnings have kindled a flame within me, a flame that aspires to bring light to the world and endeavors to bridge the chasms between cultures, ideologies, and societies.
My Journey at Columbia University
by Benbo Yue First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude again to the scholarship donors and to the organizers at Friends of UTokyo, Inc. Your generous support has not only made it possible for students like me to pursue academic aspirations but has also profoundly shaped the course of my life. Without your selfless support, every moment of insight and inspiration I experienced here would have remained a distant and unattainable dream. Spring semester is the last part of my journey at Columbia University. This final semester offered a powerful capstone to my academic journey, connecting economic theory, data science, and climate innovation in ways that sharpened both my analytical thinking and real-world relevance. In the Economics of energy class, I led a group study on how the shale gas revolution reshaped U.S. natural gas prices. Using a difference-in-differences approach, we quantified how domestic oversupply initially depressed prices and how LNG export liberalization reversed this trend. This project strengthened my ability to translate complex economic shocks into measurable price effects. My Python for Public Policy course deepened this quantitative lens. Testing Okun’s Law, I used macroeconometric modeling and time-series techniques in Python to evaluate the dynamic relationship between unemployment and GDP growth. Beyond technical execution, the process taught me how to evaluate real-world labor-output tradeoffs using modern econometric tools. At the frontier of climate tech, my team in Artificial Intelligence and Climate Change designed a platform to monitor individual carbon footprints using transaction and behavioral data. This project challenged me to think about data ethics, algorithm design, and user engagement all at once—skills critical for designing AI tools that serve sustainability goals. Meanwhile, the Central Bank Crisis Management course allowed me to explore unconventional monetary policy through the lens of Japan’s Yield Curve Control. It was both a lesson in macro-financial engineering and a case study on the risks of prolonged intervention. Lastly, I concluded my Empirical Econometrics project with a forward-looking study on China’s housing market. By applying cross-country demographic models to forecast price trends through 2050, we found that population decline and aging will likely exert long-term downward pressure on real estate value, a finding with serious implications for fiscal and social planning. Together, these experiences have not only equipped me with stronger analytical and programming skills but also deepened my conviction that rigorous, cross-disciplinary approaches are essential to tackling economic and climate challenges ahead. Among all the knowledge and skills I gained during my time here, the most valuable experience was undoubtedly the people I met. Their warmth, boldness, and willingness to embrace change left a lasting impression on me. I was inspired by their intellectual curiosity and deep respect for differences, a spirit that challenged and expanded my worldview. These encounters gave me a truly global perspective. They encouraged me to step beyond the cultural expectations of rigid collectivism I grew up with and to explore the values of western individualism. I learned not to measure myself solely by stiff discipline, but to take responsibility for my own happiness, to do what I am passionate about. I found that it’s okay to break from convention, to take risks, and most importantly to speak up, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. As Felix Wang, this year’s student speaker at the SIPA graduation, so powerfully put it: “Keep caring — when it’s hard, when it’s thankless, when the world constantly tells you not to.” That message, and the people who embodied it, will stay with me long after graduation. As I close this chapter, I want to once again extend my deepest gratitude to the scholarship donors and Friends of UTokyo, Inc. Your generosity not only supported my academic journey but also opened doors to perspectives and experiences that have transformed my life. With this foundation, I am committed to continuing my exploration of economic studies, seeking to better understand the forces that shape our world and the policies that can improve it. More importantly, I hope to pass on what I’ve learned—to extend the inspiration I received to those who have not yet had the same opportunity, and to use what I’ve gained here to contribute meaningfully to others.
Learning at the University of Chicago MBA: Practical Lesson from a Startup Endeavor
by Takeshi Yamamoto 1. Introduction My name is Takeshi Yamamoto, a recipient of the Hsun Kwei & Aiko Takizawa Chou Scholarship for the 2024 academic year. I completed my studies at the University of Michigan Law School in 2023 and earned my MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2025. I have since returned to Japan and am currently practicing as a lawyer in the Kansai region. This invaluable experience in the U.S. would not have been possible without the support of the Hsun Kwei & Aiko Takizawa Chou Scholarship. I wish to express my profound gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Chou, and to all the members of FUTI. This report will outline the key lessons I learned during my MBA studies at the University of Chicago, particularly from my practical experiences beyond the academic curriculum. Furthermore, it will detail my future aspirations and how I intend to apply these experiences to contribute to solving social issues in Japan. 2. Learning at the University of Chicago MBA: Practical Lesson from a Startup Endeavor While pursuing my MBA, I participated in an IT startup seeking to address a significant social issue in Chicago: the challenges faced by immigrants. Our startup’s objective was to develop an IT platform to assist immigrants aspiring to settle in the U.S. by centralizing essential information, streamlining administrative procedures for work permits and visas, and facilitating smoother collaboration with legal professionals. My responsibilities extended beyond providing legal advice based on my professional background. I also contributed by negotiating with prospective partners such as Refugee One, establishing guidelines for personal information management, and formulating our financial strategy. Regrettably, the venture did not achieve its ultimate objectives. Although we had a promising concept that addressed a tangible user need and had identified potential partners, we encountered several obstacles. Delays in product development with our partner and an adverse shift in the macro-environment—including policy changes and subsidy reductions for immigrants following a new U.S. presidential administration—impeded our progress. Consequently, as we were unable to establish a clear path to monetization, we could not secure funding from venture capital (VC). I frequently engaged in discussions with leaders at Refugee One, a well-known NPO in Chicago. Their words left a strong impression on me: “Addressing the immigration problem is complex due to the multitude of stakeholders involved, yet there is a lack of a central figure to orchestrate these negotiations. Assisting immigrants on a case-by-case basis does not resolve the fundamental issues.” It became clear that collaboration with local Chicago politicians and social welfare NPOs was imperative. As a minority in the U.S. myself, I became acutely aware of our lack of such networks. Through this experience, I gained a profound understanding of the critical importance for a social-impact startup to cultivate and maintain its ecosystem. This ecosystem comprises not only VCs but also a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including government agencies and local politicians. I came to fully appreciate the complexities of lobbying, fundraising, and the necessity of crafting a compelling narrative to persuade relevant parties. This was a practical lesson in effecting social change from a minority perspective—an insight I would not have otherwise gained solely by practicing law in Japan. 3. Future Goals: Establishing an Ecosystem to Support Foreign Entrepreneurs in Japan Japan is confronting multifaceted issues, including demographic shifts, economic stagnation, and the imperative to globalize. In this context, startups are pivotal in creating agile and innovative solutions. Concurrent with the growth in inbound tourism and business, the number of foreign entrepreneurs in Japan is on the rise. They originate from diverse backgrounds; some have academic experience in Japan, others have worked for Japanese corporations, and a growing number come to Japan with the express purpose of launching a business. According to statistics from the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (as of December 2024), the number of foreign nationals in the Kansai region with “Business Manager” status of residence has reached approximately 9,472, an 18% increase from the previous year, a trend that is projected to continue. Given my background in both law and business in the U.S., combined with my experience of engaging in a startup as a minority, I am convinced that my most meaningful contribution to Japanese society can be made by supporting foreign entrepreneurs, who constitute another minority group within Japan. In the Kansai region, my professional base, the number of foreign entrepreneurs is increasing, partly due to initiatives by local governments. A local government, for instance, has established a support desk for foreign entrepreneurs. However, a comprehensive, one-stop legal support framework for the challenges they face is currently lacking. My experience in Chicago taught me that the legal support startups require extends beyond conventional legal advice; it must be intrinsically integrated with their business strategy. For instance, when an entrepreneur ventures into a regulated industry, a lawyer should assume a proactive role in devising strategies to engage stakeholders and navigate the complex process of obtaining regulatory approvals, providing support through to execution. There is significant value in a lawyer’s role to elucidate the nuances of the Japanese business environment and objectives of laws and regulations, and to collaboratively devise solutions with foreign entrepreneurs. My ambition is to become a leading expert in startup law in the Kansai region and to spearhead the establishment of a “Legal Strategy Hub for Foreign Entrepreneurs.” Specifically, I aim to form partnerships with municipal governments such as Osaka and Kobe, and with academic institutions including Osaka University and Kyoto University. By establishing a function within their existing hubs to deliver integrated legal and consulting services, I aspire to serve as a bridge between the business and legal sectors. (This concept is inspired by the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center, an entrepreneurial ecosystem where local law firms provide a broad array of consulting services that transcend traditional legal support.) Since my return to Japan, my legal practice has frequently involved advising both Japanese companies on their global expansion and their foreign employees. I have
Political Science at the University of Michigan
by Itsuki Umeyama I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. and Mrs. Chou, whose generous support through the Hsun Kwei & Aiko Takizawa Chou Scholarship, administered by Friends of UTokyo, Inc. (FUTI), made a meaningful difference in my graduate studies. I entered the Ph.D. program in Political Science at the University of Michigan immediately after graduating from the University of Tokyo, and this support was especially helpful in covering my relocation expenses. Many people hesitate to pursue new experiences—not only due to fear of the unknown but also because of the financial burden such decisions can bring. From that perspective, the scholarship lifted a major source of stress and allowed me to begin this new chapter of my academic journey with confidence. My first year in the Ph.D. program has been the most transformative period of my life. It has truly changed me. Before starting, I had broad interests in certain topics but wasn’t sure if I could commit to them throughout my academic career. Now, I’ve discovered a research question that I care about deeply, one I am committed to pursuing for the long term. This turning point came during a conversation with one of my professors. We were discussing my research ideas when she said, “You can do well studying your own country because you understand where its problems lie, and that’s where strong political science research begins.” Her words gave me a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. I’ve never followed a conventional path—starting with being a high school girl in a rural area aspiring to attend the University of Tokyo. That experience, among others, has shaped my perspective. Because I’ve often stood outside the mainstream, I’ve learned to see the world differently—a quality that helps me identify overlooked or hidden social and political issues. Currently, I’m studying the lives of Japanese repatriates who returned after the country’s defeat in 1945—people often forgotten in the chaos of the postwar period. Alongside my academic growth, I’ve also formed good friendships. The Ph.D. program in the U.S. welcomes anyone with a passion for research, resulting in a student body that is not only ethnically diverse but also rich in life experiences. Many of my peers worked before entering the program. Hearing their stories—why they left their jobs to pursue academia—has been eye-opening and deeply inspiring. Thank you again for supporting me financially. Because of your generosity, I was able to experience this wonderful and life-changing first year in the Ph.D. program at the University of Michigan.
Johns Hopkins University Krieger School of Arts and Sciences
Michael Seiichiro Tsutagawa Since August 2024, with the generous support of Friends of UTokyo, Inc., and ITO FOUNDATION U.S.A., I have been studying abroad at the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Krieger School of Arts and Sciences. As a Medicine major at the University of Tokyo, I have primarily focused on Biology coursework and gained firsthand exposure to the U.S. medical field through clinical shadowing and academic research. Additionally, I’ve taken the opportunity to explore new academic interests—namely, Linguistics and Language Learning—which I hadn’t been able to pursue at UTokyo. Over the course of the year, I completed three Biology courses: General Biology, Cell Biology, and AIDS. These courses provided a layered and enriching educational experience. General Biology, an introductory course designed for first-year students, offered a comprehensive overview of biological disciplines and introduced essential English terminology. This foundational knowledge supported my success in more advanced courses during the second semester. Cell Biology delved deeply into cellular structures and mechanisms, building upon my previous studies at UTokyo. Meanwhile, the AIDS course introduced specialized content in immunology and pharmacology, equipping me with a nuanced understanding of HIV/AIDS treatment and its biological underpinnings. Taken together, these courses complemented each other well in terms of content difficulty and specialization, significantly enhancing both my academic growth and intellectual curiosity. Perhaps the most ambitious academic endeavor I undertook during this exchange was joining a research lab at JHU—one of the world’s leading research universities. Since the start of the spring semester, I have been actively engaged in research at Dr. Hungoo Lee’s lab in the Department of Genetic Medicine. The lab investigates Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), a leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder, as well as other repeat expansion disorders. The research focuses on uncovering the epigenetic mechanisms behind these conditions and exploring pharmacological interventions. I’ve committed over 15 hours per week to research, conducting experiments involving iPSC culture and participating in several independent projects. This experience has been transformative. Before this exchange, I had little exposure to or interest in research and had only envisioned a future as a practicing physician. However, working at the forefront of medical science at JHU has broadened my perspective—I am now seriously considering a career path that combines clinical practice and research, such as pursuing an MD-PhD or becoming a clinician-researcher. This shift in aspiration would not have been possible without the opportunity to immerse myself in real-world academic research. In addition to lab work, I also had the chance to shadow Dr. Sonia Dalal in the Internal Medicine department at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Observing patient care across diverse racial and age demographics gave me a clearer picture of the American healthcare system and helped me envision what a medical career in the U.S. might look like. Another major goal of my exchange year was to step outside the sciences and engage with new academic fields, particularly Linguistics and Language Learning. I enrolled in year-long Korean and French courses, and one semester of Spanish. Through these, I gained both language proficiency and cultural insight, especially into Latin American and Francophone societies. By the end of the academic year, I had reached a CEFR level of C1 in Korean and A2 in French. I also audited a Neurolinguistics course that explored the relationship between brain anatomy and language processing—an interdisciplinary area that bridged my interests in Medicine and Linguistics. Beyond the classroom, I made the most of my time in the U.S. by traveling to cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston. Exploring historical landmarks and sharing these experiences with fellow exchange students helped deepen our friendships. I also joined the Johns Hopkins University Debating Council (JHUDC), continuing my passion for English parliamentary debate. Throughout the year, I represented JHU in competitions at Harvard and Princeton, as well as at the North American Championships in Kingston, Canada. Representing UTokyo, I also competed in the World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC) in Panama. These events offered intellectually stimulating experiences and allowed me to connect with peers from universities around the world. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Friends of UTokyo, Inc., for their generous support. This invaluable opportunity has been a significant highlight of my academic journey, and it would not have been possible without their assistance.