[Study Abroad Experience] Mayu Otsuka, 2nd Year Medical Student

Motivation for studying abroad

There are two main reasons why I participated in this study abroad program.

① To acquire the skills necessary to become a physician who can play an active role in both international medical assistance and community healthcare.
　In domestic regions with limited medical resources and in conflict zones abroad, we believe that not only medical knowledge and skills, but also communication skills, the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary and multinational teams, and an understanding of the local culture and social background are essential. Together with the six members who participated in this training program, we wanted to gain a firsthand understanding of these qualities by actually studying abroad and interacting with local students and culture.
② To deepen understanding of Aomori and to share that understanding.
　I'm from outside Aomori Prefecture, and I haven't had many opportunities to learn about it until now. Through this program, I wanted to learn about Aomori and share its charm with people there.

Reasons for choosing this study abroad destination

I was drawn to the opportunity to experience both learning and practical application, such as attending lectures in Hilo, interacting with students, and promoting Aomori Prefecture at the Honolulu Festival.
Furthermore, Hirosaki University has exchange programs with the University of Hawaii, and there are opportunities to study at the University of Hawaii in the medical field. I am considering studying at the University of Hawaii as a destination for medical school in the future, and as a preliminary step, I believe that deepening my understanding of Hawaiian society, culture, and its relationship with the local community is important for my future involvement in healthcare, which is why I applied to participate in this program.

What it's like at the university where I'm studying abroad

I was impressed by the high level of motivation among the local students and their pride in their respective fields of study and local culture. They actively participated in classes and discussions, clearly expressing their opinions. I was particularly struck by my conversations with forestry students about "why they chose their major and what they find appealing about it." I, too, became passionate as I talked about why I love anatomy. Furthermore, I strongly felt their desire to understand culture, history, and language as an integrated whole, as exemplified by their statement that "hula dancing, the Hawaiian language, and history are inseparable."

The situation at the accommodation (dormitory, homestay, etc.)

During my stay in Hilo, I lived in a student dormitory. The living conditions were excellent. I was particularly impressed by the availability of a water dispenser and a place where I could freely play billiards and table tennis.
We rarely felt inconvenienced, but it was unexpected that we couldn't access the kitchen, which we had been told we could use, with our key, which sometimes made preparing meals difficult.

After school, I had many opportunities to interact with local students and other international students, allowing me to experience different cultures in my daily life.

Hilo is a quiet town surrounded by abundant nature, allowing me to carefully observe the local culture and the lives of its people in a peaceful environment.

Memorable things

What left the biggest impression on me was how much the local people cherish nature and their culture. During my fieldwork, I witnessed instances of people cooperating with nature to protect endemic plant species, and I truly felt that their awareness of culture and nature is deeply rooted in their daily lives.
Also, practicing and performing the Nebuta flute for the Honolulu Festival is a very memorable experience for me. While promoting Aomori's culture, I realized the limitations of my own understanding, but at the same time, my interest in regional culture deepened.

Things I learned through studying abroad

Through this study abroad experience, I learned that it's insufficient to view medicine solely as a biological issue; it needs to be understood within the context of the culture and social structure in which the person lives. Even the good intentions of medical professionals who want to cure patients can become egoistic if they ignore the culture and values ​​of the people involved. Therefore, I felt it was essential to try to understand what the local people value. I also realized the importance of language skills and team building. Instead of traveling abroad alone, my goal of "promoting Aomori" as a team, and the challenges ahead, have become clear.
Through this study abroad experience, I was able to confront my own shortcomings while gaining many lessons and insights. I would like to utilize this experience in my future medical studies and activities.

For those considering studying abroad

English proficiency is important, but it doesn't need to be perfect. I felt that what's important is the willingness to communicate your own thoughts. Also, learning about the local culture and history before studying abroad will deepen your learning experience. Furthermore, I think it's important to cherish any feelings of unease or insights you have during your study abroad and to articulate them after returning home. Most importantly, have fun and have a great time! I'm rooting for you!

*The faculty and year of study are as of the time of the study abroad program.

Regarding the Aomori Prefecture Partnership Overseas Training ProgramCLICK HERE

See also here.