As a PhD student I have been trained up in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University from November, 2016 under the close supervision of Professor Satoru Kyo and Co supervisor Kentaro Nakayama. In this department I have studied telomere length in gynecological cancers and tried to find out their genetic properties with patient prognosis. My research to date has proved that patients with OC and CC with shorter lymphocyte telomeres have significantly reduced survival; therefore, the peripheral blood lymphocyte telomere length is a prognostic biomarker in OC and CC.
   I think Shimane University is a great place to study in Japan. In campus life, the classes that I’m studying now are very well structured and so copious. All teachers and staff are amazingly supportive and always willing to help with any difficulties the students are facing. The international student section frequently provides us with necessary documents, tries to solve our daily life problems as much as possible, holds events and field trips for foreign students, and affords many great occasions to experience Japanese culture and attractive surrounding areas. The international students here are in very close community, so it is very easy to make friends and have a good time. During the crisis of COVID-19, the support from the university has been incredible. They not only distributed our daily necessary foods, masks, and other sanitizations but also arranged some scholarships for private students to deal with their daily expenses. Moreover, this city teaches me how to be a good person. I have discovered that Japanese people follow the laws and general safety rules, and are highly respectful to each other. Numerous times when I could not find my place, someone would not only show me, but take me to the place of my destination even if the destination was completely out of their way. In addition, it is a very safe place to live. Every morning, my two kids go to school with their respective groups and come home safely in the evening. In front of each and every house, there is a small garden that nurtures my love of nature. Above all, people in Japan are the perfect example of politeness, kindness, and readiness to help. I can say the life at the Izumo campus of Shimane University has enriched not only my knowledge but also my professional skills and my memories with the stunning beauty of surroundings.
   Shimane University was established in 1949 with a goal to empower students to take advantage of their accumulated knowledge and enable them to become leaders in each region of the world. In the future, I hope more international students will come to this university and complete their higher studies. Speaking as a foreign student, I think Shimane University is one of most prestigious institutions in Japan due to its historical location. Its natural beauty is breathtaking, especially during the time of sakura. You will never experience loneliness in daily life or in your academic life, like research. Besides your research work, you can take part in various activities like sightseeing, cooking, bowling tournaments, different field trips etc. These are offered to us by either host families or the International Students Division. Through these events you will not only cooperate with people, but also learn about incredible Japanese beliefs and culture. In terms of location, Izumo has features of both the city and the countryside. It is also relatively calm and quiet compared to other cities. I hope this situation will lead you to relax and concentrate on your mind to complete your studies successfully. At the very beginning, it may be difficult for someone who cannot speak in Japanese, but I hope you will find many kind people who are willing to help you. So, I hope you will choose to come to Shimane University and fulfill your dream on a very charming university campus.

by  KAMRUNNAHAR SHANTA, March 2021