”Beginning anew through reprise”

As I approached the close of my studies as an undergraduate, I came to the realization that I had found more possibilities for beginnings than ends. Although I had managed to find my own raison d’être along the way and through my studies, I saw this as a reason to continue before I brought my studies to an end. The Independent Research Project was a path for me to bring my undergraduate studies to an amicable ending whereby the outcome was not just a summation of what I have accomplished but also an entry into something new. Though, the most enticing aspect of the project that drove me to action was the opportunity to work closely with my professor to contemplate approaches to problems and refine my understanding of the topic.

Though the feeling of completion or success in my trials after various setbacks did provide encouragement along the way, I found reflection to be the most rewarding experience. The little victories along the way add up, but it was only once I took the time to look back at my older files or reflect on how far I have come that I realized that I have attained some of the original goals I set out for myself or become capable of what I had once aspired to do.

Moving into my graduate program after Keio, the underlying skills and eye for the research process that I have obtained over the past year working on the project with my professor will surely be linearly connected to my studies in graduate school. However, the skills that I have learned do not stop within the realm of academia. Due to the self-governed and elective nature of the project, the student maintains the privilege to choose exactly the topic and tools within which they would like to deepen their understanding. Though the tools and topics that I choose to pursue are related to quantitative finance and will connect to my future professional endeavors, my experience is non-extensive to the program. I firmly believe that any student with any interest holds the power to choose how what they learn during this project can shape their future.

Consistent planning in advance is one of the most important habits to maintain during the project. Upon applying for the Independent Research Project, you will find that the deadlines are earlier than other classes and even more so due to the need to contact professors in advance with your preliminary proposal already in hand. Though above the time management skills for this ask and those you will develop along the way, I recommend that future students have in mind what they would like to achieve by completing the project.