Japanese
Japanese

Voices of International Students

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HASINI

Degree Program in life and earth sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology

From Sri Lanka

What sparked your interest in this university?

My interest in Tsukuba University was initially sparked by its prestigious reputation for academic excellence and innovative research, particularly in the field of automation. I was also drawn to the university's international atmosphere and supportive environment for graduate students. Beyond academics, I found the city of Tsukuba to be a calm and a very comfortable place to live. It offers a peaceful, safe, and well-organized lifestyle, with convenient access to nature and modern facilities. The weather is also quite pleasant throughout the year, making it easier to focus on both studies and personal well-being. Altogether, it felt like the perfect environment to pursue my academic and research goals.

What aspects of Japanese culture or customs surprised you? How did you adapt to them?

Adapting to these cultural differences was a joyful experience. One of the most surprising and heartwarming aspects of Japanese culture is the deep sense of hospitality and friendliness. The level of politeness and the importance of greetings in daily life truly stood out to me. Another cultural highlight for me is the sakura season. It is my favorite time of year in Japan; the beauty of the blooming trees, the peaceful hanami gatherings in parks, and the sense of appreciation for nature are truly inspiring. I also enjoyed participating in local matsuri (festivals), which are filled with vibrant energy, traditional performances, and community spirit.

What do you enjoy about Tsukuba?

I truly enjoy living and studying in Tsukuba. Known as Japan's "Science City," it offers a unique blend of cutting-edge research and natural beauty. The University of Tsukuba provides great inspiration through access to world-class facilities and a strong focus on innovation. It's a great place to collaborate with students and researchers from around the world. The region itself is peaceful and very comfortable to live in. The weather is pleasant, there are plenty of parks, and many beautiful places to explore. Additionally, the presence of a friendly Sri Lankan community in Tsukuba has made me feel even more at home. Their support and cultural connection have added a sense of belonging during my studies abroad.


What do you hope to achieve during your time here?

During my time here, I will complete my master's degree and, hopefully, continue to pursue my PhD at the University of Tsukuba. I aim to deepen my knowledge and research skills in intelligent systems, with a particular focus on facial expression recognition and driver safety systems related to the agriculture sector. I also want to broaden my global perspective by engaging with the international community on campus, participating in cultural exchanges. I'm also honored to be a recipient of the Konosuke Matsushita Memorial Foundation Scholarship, which has been a great support and motivation. It enables me to focus on my studies and research, and encourages me to work hard to achieve academic excellence while contributing positively to society.

What do you think makes the University of Tsukuba special?

The University of Tsukuba's specialty lies in its strong focus on cutting-edge research, which aligns with my academic interests, especially the combination of automation and agriculture. The university provides an ideal environment to pursue innovative research with access to advanced facilities, experienced professors, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Its beautiful and spacious campus, surrounded by nature, provides an ideal environment for both study and relaxation. The university's international outlook also makes it easy for students from around the world to feel welcome and integrated, with plenty of support and opportunities to grow. Additionally, being located in Tsukuba Science City close to Tokyo gives students access to cutting-edge research institutes, a peaceful living environment, and the convenience of city life.