Coming from New Zealand
to Find the Future of Medicine

Simon Chau, Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine

Reasons For Choosing Keio University Graduate School of Medicine

Q: How did you learn about Keio University Graduate School of Medicine?

At my university in New Zealand, The University of Otago, I became friends with a visiting Japanese student from Keio who told me about the school. Later, I read a report written by Professor Yasui and Professor Abe of the Department of Pharmacology, and contacted the International Center, who put me in touch with them directly.

Q: You must have considered other universities when deciding to study overseas. Why exactly did you choose this program at Keio University Graduate School of Medicine?

I wanted to learn in an environment that was completely different from New Zealand; and in particular, I wanted to study in Japan. I inquired with other universities in Japan, but I knew that Keio was a top university in Japan and had heard directly from my Japanese friend in New Zealand that it was an excellent school, and through my interaction with Keio, I quickly realized its reputation was accurate. That is why I chose Keio.

Q: Was it a good decision?

Yes. I am very happy to be here. I think Keio provides a wonderful environment for me to study in Japan. Keio has the convenience of being situated in the capital city of Japan, and it has a very special culture rooted in its unique history that I find very interesting. I am very proud to be a member of Keio University and I feel a strong sense of community here. I am very satisfied.

Impressions of Keio

Q: Was Keio different from your expectations?

To be honest, I didn’t have a clear mental image of Keio before I came. But after arriving I realized I had come to a great school.

Q: Have you made many friends?

Yes. Last year I lived in the international dormitory on Hiyoshi Campus, so I was able to make many friends from all over the world. I also participated in club activities, so I made many friends there as well. On weekends, my friends and I typically play futsal, go out to eat, and go on bike rides.

Q: What club activities do you participate in?

Last year I was a member of the Faculty of Science and Technology soccer club (Keio Rikotai FC). It was a lot of fun, and I still enjoy playing soccer occasionally. Beyond that, I’ve also made many friends in the Department of Pharmacology.

Research

Q: What sort of research are you doing currently?

Pharmacology research with an emphasis in aquaporins. Aquaporins are recognized as important proteins, and in my laboratory I am investigating the relationship between aquaporins and neuromyelitis optica (NMO), as well as the connection between aquaporins and Alzheimer’s disease.

Q: What are your plans after finishing your master's program?

After completing the Master’s program, I would like to remain at Keio to complete a PhD if possible. I’d like to continue research into Alzheimer’s disease.

To Students Considering Studying Abroad

Q: Do you have anything to say about Keio University that might interest students overseas who are considering studying abroad?

Keio University is a top-level university that possesses an extremely high reputation. It has a long and storied history and provides an excellent environment for learning and study.
Through my interactions with students from many different countries, I have been able to learn new perspectives and ways of thinking. I want to encourage others throughout the world to consider coming to study at this excellent university.

Daily Life

Traveling when I find the time. I enjoyed the food in Osaka, which is totally different from food in Tokyo.

With Rikotai FC, the soccer club that I was in until last year.
I’ve made fantastic memories.

A party with other members of my seminar group. This was really valuable time for me to learn about Japan.

Schedule of a Typical Day (Shinanomachi Campus)

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