I have been studying valvular heart diseases, especially AORTIC VALVE STENOSIS in the Department of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine  IV Unit as a PhD student.
   I heard that IZUMO is the land of the gods. The gods come to Izumo from all over Japan in October of the lunar calendar and many ritual events are held at Izumo Grand Shrine around this time. I thought I was happy to live and study in such a blessed place. Looking back on my four-year stay here, just fond memories came to mind, with locals always offering a helping hand, and students being very cooperative and friendly. So I felt as if I were in my native country. Life in Izumo was stress-free because the whole city is well-organized. There is enough space for walking or running while kids can play freely. I sometimes traveled to Kirara taki beach by train from the nearest station, which was very close to my dormitory. In a word, I had sweet memories in Izumo.
   Shimane University provides an ideal field for study. There are enough facilities and labs as well as excellent supervisors or teachers (sensei in Japanese) and other faculty members. Its beautiful campus charmed me a lot. The cafeteria is just next to a pond where turtles and ducks live peacefully. I also enjoyed the sound of frogs!! Hopefully, Shimane University will arrange more recreation programs and sightseeing events as well as study sessions in the future.
   My advice to them is that Shimane University won’t betray your expectations because it is an excellent field for studying along with being a good human being.

by TOWFIQ AHMED SHAMIM, March 2022