Coming from New Zealand to Find the Future of Medicine

Simon Chau, Department of Pharmacology, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.