OQEANOUS Plus ProgramOversea Quality-assured Education in Asian Nations
for Ocean University Students Plus

OQEANOUS Plus-IJP Report (TUMSAT 2024 April-2024 September)

2024.11.20

Kasetsart University (Kingdom of Thailand)
Graduate School of Kasetsart University
Course of Marine Science, Department of Marine Biosciences
Second Year of Master’s Program
D. K.

     It’s been about 5 years studying in the Marine Science field. I am always looking for opportunities to learn new things, so I applied to join this program. During the 6 months I had the chance to exchange, it was very exciting. The lessons and lifestyle were different from my hometown, Thailand as we are tropical zone country.”

【Student Life】

     Learning new techniques and using scientific instruments can be challenging. Additionally, the laboratory culture is quite different. But don’t worry; you can easily set your own plan here. The Japanese study system is very convenient, and the staff are incredibly helpful. For example, my study field here is squid (IKA), but I am also welcomed to study in the fish laboratory. You’ll gain new experiences collecting samples here. As for the Marine Science course, no need to worry—Japan is a country surrounded by the sea.

[Picture 1] IKA Laboratory

【Living in the campus】

     In Thailand, I live with my family like many other Asian cultures. Here for 6 months, it’s my first time living alone in a dormitory and outside my country. Of course, I was worried, but the moment I saw the view around the campus, everything changed. The surroundings are so peaceful and beautiful. Every detail on the sidewalk is interesting; just go out and feel the fresh air. The lifestyle in the dormitory is quite good. Just learn how to cook in the first month by shopping at a nearby supermarket, and by the next month, you’ll be a good chef. Japanese culture has food that changes with the seasons, so during your time here, pay a little attention. You will see how beautifully they adapt their lifestyle to live with nature.

[Picture 2] Living in campus

[Picture 3] Peaceful and beautiful view

【Outdoor Learning】

     After a hard day of classes and lab work, you can enjoy weekends by exploring outside. Don’t worry about traveling alone; Japan is incredibly safe and a great place for walking. Aim to get in at least 10,000 steps a day. Outside of university, you can find places that suit your interests. For me, I love natural and quiet spots, so it’s fun to check a map, point at a random green area, and find my way there. Trust me, Japanese transportation will get you anywhere. It’s become a new hobby for me, and as I travel to different places, I make sure to try local food and collect cute souvenirs to fill my suitcase. Normally, I don’t look for luck, but in Japan, nature always surprises you. For example, I took a picture of a Tanuki on Enoshima Island and spotted a stingray at Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park. Both places are just a local train ride from Tokyo for a one-day trip. You can also enjoy unique parades you find along the way. After a long day of travel, stopping for Japanese local food is a must. Ramen is an excellent choice because each region in Japan adds its own twist to the flavors.

[Picture 4] Outdoor Learning
     If you’re not much of a traveler, TUMSAT offers many activities for learning new things. I chose the Japanese Calligraphy Experience. Have you ever tried writing with a brush and making your own ink? If you’re interested, I recommend you join.

[Picture 5] Local Food

【Challenges】

     Changing places and learning new things is a big step to take. At first, everything might seem difficult, like the language barriers. In my home country and Japan, we use completely different languages—it’s like going back to being a child in Japanese class. But don’t worry, it will be a great experience.

     In my first Japanese class, I was so shy and struggled, but then I found a new friend sitting next to me who also spoke a different language I didn’t understand. We learned to speak Japanese together, and I realized that this Japanese class not only taught me the language but also gave me a good friendship.

[Picture 6] My Challenging Things

     After overcoming language barriers, the next challenge for me was summer. Being from a tropical country, I’m used to the heat. However, Japan’s natural environment amazed me once again. Summer in Japan comes with the sound of cicadas (蝉), which I like to call “Ringing Machines.” During the first week, their incessant ringing that wakes you up in the morning can be a bit of a struggle. But if you accept and focus on their sound, you’ll discover they have different patterns. Once they’re gone, you might even miss them. And don’t worry about Japan’s summer heat—Japanese restaurants will serve your ramen cold with an ice cube.

【Invitation Message to study at TUMSAT】

     Beginning a new learning journey can be both exciting and challenging. Accept the nature, ask questions, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn. Remember that every step, even the tough ones, brings you closer to your goals. Stay curious and enjoy the adventure. You’ll gain not only knowledge but friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. I hope you read my message and take the opportunity, just like I did.