Hello, I’m SUN RONG from China. I’m in the 4th year of the Ph.D. course at the Department of Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine and Medical Oncology Unit.  Through my research in the program, I learned the scientific thinking and experimental methods in my lab, specializing in the novel action mechanism and therapeutic option of thoracic tumors with acquired anticancer drug-resistance. I became interested in this field when I began to concentrate on my research. What I learned laid the foundation of my future career in applying basic findings to clinical medicine, and the new findings from this field will bring benefits to cancer patients. As a Chinese doctor, I never stopped studying clinical skills and knowledge during my Ph.D. study. I learned the latest guidelines on how to treat respiratory diseases, particularly thoracic cancer, as well as special skills on how to perform bronchoscopy.
   As an international student, I continue to improve my English skills and study Japanese. I have been studying Japanese during my busy Ph.D. study. I couldn’t speak any Japanese at all when I first came to Japan, but now I can communicate in Japanese especially about the medical field, as I know many technical terms in the language. Last but not least，as an international researcher, it is not enough to only study and do research. It is necessary to have an international perspective. I also learned about the Japanese medical institutions operating in coordination during my clinical practice, such as the referred patient reservation system, which relieves the pressure on clinical activities in university hospitals, and ensures medical availability for both emergency and non-emergency patients. 
   Izumo is a quiet city in Shimane prefecture with fresh air and an adjustable climate. As a student, it is peaceful for me to keep patience on study and research without hustle and noise. And the fresh air is beneficial to the human body. It is worth mentioning that Izumo has a long history of Japan, surrounded by traditional architecture and abundance with local products. So, being in Izumo offers international students a good opportunity to deepen their knowledge about the Japanese culture.
   I hope there will be an increasing number of international students from more countries admitted into Shimane University. Due to no borders in globalization of science, I hope there will be more and more academic interactions between international students and Japanese students to raise international recognition, and bring a brighter future to Shimane University.
   Thanks to Shimane University who gave me the precious opportunity and environment to study abroad. Thanks to the Japanese government who gives me more guidance both financially and psychologically to live and study in Japan. I recommend that those who are interested in studying here enjoy connecting with many kind teachers, staff members, local people, and international students as well. I also recommend them to make full use of the platform Shimane University provides for us to broaden their international perspective, not only to study but also to improve their language skills, learn the Japanese culture, savor beautiful natural sceneries and build a good friendship with people in Japan and overseas. Shimane University is a good and right choice if you want to learn more and have a better future.

by SUN RONG, November 2021