Student Voices 2027 #007 Faculty of Science and Technology

I applied to the Faculty of Science and Technology because the "Gakumon System" (see p. 49) seemed attractive to me, as my future goals were still vague. In recent years, research that integrates multiple fields has become mainstream, so I believe a system that allows you to decide on a specialization after being exposed to the basics of science and technology in general is very significant. There is also a system called "Crossing Gakumon" that allows students to proceed to departments outside of their original Gakumon group.

I applied for Gakumon E, which opens doors to Chemistry and Biology—fields I became interested in through experiments and classes in high school. Through my studies after enrollment, I found many departments attractive, but after experiencing the depth of more specialized chemistry, I realized I wanted to pursue a path in chemistry after all and joined the Department of Applied Chemistry. The fact that the department is large-scale and covers a wide range of fields was also a deciding factor.

Many classes in the Faculty of Science and Technology, such as exercises and discussions, focus on "how each individual thinks based on what they have learned."

Student experiments are a prime example of this. It is about not taking textbooks at face value and confirming actual phenomena with your own five senses. How one finds meaning in a single phenomenon differs from person to person, and the resulting insights are unique. I am able to feel the importance of these things every time I conduct an experiment, and I am spending a very meaningful time here.

When people hear "Faculty of Science and Technology," some might be concerned about the low percentage of women. However, many students respect a person's "essence"—such as their personality, abilities, and values—rather than "characteristics" like gender. Therefore, anyone should be able to lead a fulfilling daily life without feeling anxious.

Also, as an extracurricular activity, I belong to the university-authorized student organization "Wagner Society Female Choir." In addition to regular concerts, there are diverse performance opportunities, including joint concerts with domestic and international universities and overseas performances in Vienna and the Czech Republic. Since students also handle the planning and management, I have gained a lot through these activities. Among them, the greatest gain is the presence of my peers who always provide emotional support. At Keio University, you can meet peers in all sorts of situations with whom you can work hard and elevate each other.

From my fourth year, I plan to be assigned to a laboratory involved in basic cancer research. While focusing on research activities, I also want to give my all to other things, such as my activities in the choir.

I value being honest with my own interests and intentions. No matter what path I take in the future, the experience of having seen through what I decided for myself without compromise should become my foundation. I want all prospective students to give their all to everything, including things outside of studying, and expand their possibilities. At Keio University, the environment is there to make that happen as long as you have the passion. I look forward to meeting you at Keio University.

This article was published in the "Guidebook 2027," a university guide for prospective students.

The latest guidebook is available as a PDF or digital pamphlet. Please check the "Guidebook" webpage.