The unforgotten experiences of life and academia in Izumo, Japan's core city

   Hello! Konnichiwa! Halo, Salam!. My name is Muhammad Alim Jaya, and my friendly name is Aji. I am an Indonesian student at the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, Japan. And, it is a great honor to be a part of this university. This university has taught me a lot and shaped me into a much better character than before. I have improved my skills especially in basic research, and learned how to prepare an article for international publications. All of these were thanks to the support from my supervisor, who always provides guidance and directions for me, all the staff, and of course the campus environment which is very convenient in supporting my studies. In addition, friends are also very meaningful in my heart. In keeping with my background, my research focuses on psychiatric disorders, cognitive function performance, and their relations to neuroinflammation. Currently, research on Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo medicine) is developing and carried out holistically with a practical approach to clinical therapy advancement. My study will clarify the efficacy of one Kampo medicine on cognitive function performances and neuroinflammation (related to glial cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines) on the pathological brain of Gunn rats. These study findings will be very important information in the development of research on herbal medicine in the future.
   The Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University is located in Izumo city. Located in the countryside, Izumo city offers such a wonderful place to live and study, especially for foreigners like me. As far as I know, since ancient times, people in Japan have believed that the Gods protect every possible place, from mountains and forests to lakes, rivers, and seas. According to the ancient Japanese calendar, once a year, all the Gods gather in one place, and that place is the Izumo Grand Shrine (Izumo Taisha). The local residents have great respect for this land which is the goal of the Gods. These things may give Izumo a distinct aesthetic sense that is the basis for the development of this city. We can see this in the preservation of beautiful landscapes that harmonize nature and human activities. As far as I know, Izumo is the only place in all of Japan where you can experience the beauty of culture not only in some tourist areas but in most of the local features including roads, bridges, and houses.
   Since I lived in a crowded neighborhood in my country, Izumo made me feel like we were living the opposite of my world. Traditional cultures have continued for a long time in every part of the local lifestyle environment and been unaffected by the newest fashions, cultures, or technologies. For many foreigners like me, Izumo is a wonderful place that will make you feel comfortable and I can guarantee that you will never forget this city.
   I have some opinions. After I complete my study, I will go back to Indonesia. I will join “Shimane University Alumni Association of Indonesia” the members of which consist of ex-students who graduated from Shimane University. I hope that the association can maintain its relationship with Shimane University and can be a liaison for Indonesian students who are interested in continuing their studies at Shimane University. I believe that increasing collaboration between Shimane University and universities in Indonesia will have a positive impact on the socio-culture of both countries, increasing the university popularity, and relations between both countries.
   Currently, Indonesian students come to Shimane University, but there is no reverse situation. Hopefully, someday, students of Shimane University come to our university for internships or short courses to study medical knowledge and culture sharing, and I want to support them with all my might.
   There are several issues that usually prevent some students from studying abroad. Funding is one of the main concerns for most overseas students and it is often the case that many students start their school lives without full funding. This makes some of the students start working part-time. Funding can come from a variety of sources including governments, grants, and scholarships. Most students start fundraising while in Japan. In addition, students can also take part in the selection of tuition fee exemption programs by Shimane University. Of course, it is very helpful in reducing the financial burden shouldered by students.
   Health insurance is the next concern. To the best of my knowledge, Japan is one of the safest countries to visit in the world. Japan also has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world, which is reflected in this high life expectancy. Members of the National Health Insurance scheme pay only 30% of their health care costs and it only costs a few hundred yen for trips to the doctor or dentist.
   The next concern is cultural differences. We have a big opportunity to live, work and explore a different culture when studying abroad. You will be able to learn about the history, people, language, and culture from one of the most unique cultures in the world, namely Japan. Studying and living abroad will help you grow and develop as an independent and responsible person. As a Muslim, one of the main concerns is regarding Halal food. Throughout my experiences living in Japan, I have no problem with this. Because many Japanese menus serve seafood and we can order halal food from many halal food shops online. And, it only takes one or two days for our orders to arrive.
   So, I really recommend it to those who are interested in studying here. Please come and make yourself develop and grow, then make your dreams come true. Best regards from me (Aji).

by  MUHAMMAD ALIM JAYA, June 2021