by Miruna Neacsu
My name is Miruna Neacsu, and I am a student at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in the United States, pursuing a major in Physics with a minor in Computer Science. This summer, I had the opportunity to participate in the UTSIP Kashiwa, through the generous sponsorship of FUTI program, and it has been more than just a dream, it has been the “Inception” of my journey. I had always dreamed of visiting Japan, becoming part of the UTokyo community, and getting a sense of what my future as a Master’s student might look like. At the same time, I wanted to apply my background in Physics and Computer Science to take steps toward a career in healthcare technology. Through UTSIP, all these dreams came together, not just separately but as one meaningful experience.
During UTSIP I had the honor of being a summer research intern under the mentorship of Professor Kotani Kiyoshi at the Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies. My work focused on the “Time dynamics of Auditory Steady-State Responses (ASSR),” a project examining how the brain synchronizes its electrical activity with repetitive auditory stimuli. This line of research holds significant clinical potential, particularly in the context of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), a condition affecting nearly 30% of patients for whom standard antipsychotic therapies prove ineffective. ASSR, especially at the 40 Hz frequency, stand out as a promising, non-invasive EEG marker capable of distinguishing TRS patients and guiding more personalized approaches to treatment, while also offering a cost-effective alternative to costly or invasive methods like PET imaging.
I approached this research with dedication, integrating the theoretical and experimental knowledge I had gained throughout my academic career. This commitment was recognized at the program’s final, when I received the “Best Presentation Award,” a distinction symbolized by the gift of a traditional Japanese cup, an achievement I treasure with pride.
Beyond research, UTSIP Kashiwa offered valuable perspectives on the intersection of science, technology, and society. A field trip to Shizuoka introduced us to the massive tsunami protection system, a striking example of resilience and human ingenuity in the face of natural disasters. I discovered advanced technologies applied in tomato farms and EEL fish aquaculture, enjoyed the serenity of a traditional tea ceremony, admired the landscapes of Yaizu, stood in awe before the majesty of Fuji-San, and was part of the cultural richness of kabuki theatre. Each of these experiences contributed to a more holistic understanding of Japan, complementing the academic dimension of the program.
For me, UTSIP was not just an academic milestone, but a constant source of joy and wonder. I met inspiring specialists dedicated to their work, peers from around the world with whom I hope to keep lifelong friendships, and cultures that amazed me both in their diversity and in their shared passion for knowledge and science.
In closing, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the University of Tokyo and the FUTI Scholarship. Their support has given me the chance not only to contribute to meaningful research, but also to immerse myself in the richness of Japanese culture. This program has left a deep mark on my personal and academic path, and I sincerely hope to return to UTokyo and Japan in the future, to continue learning and building on this unforgettable experience.
