Jaamal Taabris, University of Florida

My rotation at Keio University will be an unforgettable experience that will stay with me forever. During this time, I immersed myself in Japanese culture and gained a comprehensive understanding of Japanese medicine and health practices. And fortunately, I made numerous international connections and lifelong friendships with Keio University students, faculty, and many pharmacists in Tokyo and Kyoto.  

The opportunities I encountered during this rotation exceeded my expectations. I participated in wet lab research, working with expensive machinery, live cell cultures, and mice specimens. It was truly inspiring to see the individual research being conducted by Keio University Students and their dedication to expanding their knowledge and understanding of medication. I engaged in activities related to Traditional Japanese Medicine, or Kampo Medicine. Visiting the Tsumura Kampo Museum, attending Kampo lectures and Kampo clinic, and mixing Kampo Decoctions in the pharmacy has provided me with a solid foundational understanding of Kampo medicine. With this knowledge, I look forward to educating American pharmacists about the utilization of herbal medicine and hope to see its integration into American medical practice in the near future. I was also fortunate to visit a variety of hospitals, community pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies allowing me to gain a well-rounded understanding of different pharmacy practices in Japan.  

Having the experience of learning another country's culture and medical practices is invaluable and will profoundly impact my future career. This experience has equipped me with advanced knowledge of pharmacy practice and the diverse perspective necessary to advance pharmaceutical practices in the United States. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity with Keio University which has provided me with a culturally enhancing and remarkably diverse international rotation!