Self Introduction

Of the things about myself, I am most certain about my ability to get accustomed to a new environment quickly. When I just came to Japan, I couldn’t speak Japanese at all and had great difficulties in communicating with the students in my laboratory, as well as in studying up for my research. Nevertheless, I believed that it was necessary for me to get used to the environment of the lab, in order to quickly get to my research. Hence, I took every opportunity to talk to other students so that I could understand what was going on in the lab. At the same time, I learned how to use the machines in the lab, and read up the material in Japanese. After I did these, the students in the lab started to recognize me as an equal member of the lab, and that allowed me to conduct my research smoothly.

I like to work on things related to the environment, especially those related to the treatment of polluted soil or water. Japan has the most advanced technologies in treating polluted soil or water in the world. My ambition is to understand these technologies well, and develop new technologies in the future.

Research Topic

Research theme: A research on benzene volatilization from polluted soil

Benzene is a volatile organic compound used in things such as gasoline. They are poisonous to humans. There are several routes of exposure to benzene deposited in the soil, such as direct ingestion of soil, oral ingestion, or from inhaling them when they become airborne. However, Japanese Soil Contamination Control Law does not take exposure to airborne benzene into consideration. Hence, it is important to understand benzene volatilization from soil, and there is a need to model the phenomena.

Thoughts on having joined the program

I have been very busy since I took part in this program. Time management is very important. I think you should finish what should be done today, instead of carrying them over to tomorrow or later. I sometimes feel tired since I’m busy with my research or the classes, but I am happy about studying together with everyone.

Advice to others who are considering joining this program

Speaking Japanese well is necessary. If possible, it would be better to start studying Japanese properly sooner.