国際交流・留学

Name: Marvin Stanley
Home Institution/ Country: Diponegoro University, Semarang / Indonesia
Year of university: 4th Year
Designated department at Shinshu University: Sports Medical Science
Training Period: from July.8, 2024 to August.2, 2024
Training: Basic research

1. What made you come train at Shinshu University School of Medicine and how did you find the School through your stay?
I found out about the medical training in Shinshu from an announcement by my doctor in Diponegoro University. It was always my dream to study in Japan, but because pursuing medicine as a foreigner in Japan is very hard, I decided to attend Diponegoro University faculty of medicine. This exchange program seems like a dream come true where I can study in Japan while still pursuing medicine.

2. Please describe your training at host department/lab.
I trained at the Department of Sports Medicine with Masuki Sensei as the head Professor of the department. From the first day I was here, Masuki Sensei and everyone in the sports department has been very welcoming and kind. The main research that the department is currently focusing on is interval walking training with IOT. With this topic as a base the department introduces all kinds of independent variables from supplements, LSD (Lifestyle Disease Score), VO2 max and many other's. The research that is being done in this department also uses the IOT system where the subjects are able to upload their data from a mobile device called the Jugudai Mate which tracks their calories, heart rate, and other parameters which are then uploaded in healthcare facilities near the subject for the data to be analyzed. This method of collecting research is an amazing way to collect data from a wide range of areas which in turn facilitates the data gathering of different demographics in different regions and areas in Japan thus making data collecting easier and opens new venues to other research topics.

I participated in the data gathering process and also got my VO2 peak data taken. The Sensei also took me to a city where an education class is being held on older people regarding interval walking training and the effects it has for a healthier lifestyle. A lecture about the effects of training and our body response was also held by the professor where I learned a lot about the various responses. The research that is being done is very relevant for the sports world, and I feel it can be useful to all kinds of people all over the world.

3. Please list what you have gained from your experiences through the training at Shinshu University and the stay in Matsumoto, Japan.
I have learned a lot from my experience here in Shinshu and Matsumoto. I learned new cultures and the Japanese language. My time here in Shinshu gave me the chance to meet with so many amazing people and learn from them. I feel that studying here in Shinshu for 1 month gave me a new perspective and new ways to think and approach a problem. The research that are being done here are very eye opening and I feel like I can still learn a lot from Shinshu. Matsumoto also gave me lots of cultural experiences from summer festivals, to the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, beautiful sceneries from Utsukushigahara heights, Naraijuku, and Kamikochi and much more. Matsumoto made the exchange experience here in Japan much more vibrant with the kind and welcoming town residents, relaxing vibe, and calming atmosphere.

4. How do you think you can apply those experiences to your future career?
This exchange program in Shinshu taught me about adapting to new environments. I also learned about the importance of manners and ethics. These two points will help me a lot wherever my future career will take because these two points are very important to survive in any environment. Academically, this exchange program taught me new venues of research specifically in sports medicine and body physiology. I feel that this department is still rarely appreciated and not used as much in the medical field. I believe that sports medicine and body physiology can be a cornerstone in advancing preventive medicine and I would love to apply what I have learned in Shinshu for my future career.

5. Advice to those who are interested in studying at Shinshu University.
If you are hesitant or afraid to study abroad or to apply for an exchange program with Shinshu, I would wholeheartedly recommend applying. There aren't many chances to be able to experience first hand the culture and environment of studying abroad especially in Shinshu, Japan.
I'm sure any participant of this program will be able to gain a lot of knowledge and memorable memories. This together with the amazing Sensei and staff member will make you feel welcome and part of the family. My time in Shinshu not only gave me knowledge and perspective but it also gave me a new home here in Matsumoto.