Life in Japan

One of the most significant challenges for newcomers to Japan is undoubtedly the language barrier. As Japanese is the primary language, individuals with limited Japanese language skills may encounter substantial difficulties. Fortunately, Institute of Science Tokyo (formerly Tokyo Institute of Technology) provides basic Japanese language courses for international students, ranging from the alphabet to basic conversation. Additionally, the Japanese club offers opportunities for practicing calligraphy and conversation, catering to the interests of different learners. This foundational knowledge has proven invaluable, enabling me to order food, shop at supermarkets, and navigate convenience stores with relative ease. Another strategy I've adopted is observing the patterns of spoken Japanese. While I may not be able to engage in extended conversations, I can often deduce the meaning of sentences based on context. The advancement of technology, particularly Google Translate, has significantly mitigated the language barrier, facilitating communication and understanding between people of different linguistic backgrounds.

Beyond the language barrier, Japan offers several unique and appealing qualities that set it apart from other countries. After considering various study abroad options, I ultimately chose Japan. A key factor in my decision was the high level of safety. As a single child and a woman living alone, I feel secure due to the low crime rate. People can confidently walk home at night without fear. Additionally, the well-connected transportation system ensures convenient and punctual commuting. Japan's rich culture and diverse cuisine make it an ideal place to explore during free time. My favorite activities include participating in free cooking classes offered by the school during open house events or by the local ward office, attending classical music concerts, visiting exhibitions and museums, and praying at shrines and temples. I also enjoy attending international fairs, temple and shrine events, and pride parades, which showcase the country's diversity and inclusivity. I've enjoyed learning about different cultures and trying new foods at these events.

Making Friends

Making friends can be a daunting task when living alone, especially in a new environment without an established social network. During my first year, I was fortunate to be assigned to Komaba International House, even though it coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Ironically, these challenging circumstances brought us closer together. With remote learning and lab restrictions in place, we spent more time in the dorm, forging strong bonds. Our dorm tutor created a LINE group chat, and we would spontaneously plan outings: leisurely strolls through the park, home-cooked meals, or simply a cup of tea. Unfortunately, the one-year duration of the dormitory meant I had to move out and find an apartment.

As restrictions eased after my move, I expanded my social circle within the university. Civil engineering, my major, requires significant collaborative work, naturally leading to friendships with lab mates and classmates. Luckily, my lab fosters a strong sense of camaraderie, often organizing lab parties and trips. These events have made me feel like part of a family, as everyone is kind and supportive. I also made friends in my Japanese language class at the university's language center. We frequently met outside of class to practice our language skills or explore the city. I was also involved in the Thai Student Association at Tokyo Institute of Technology (now Science Tokyo), where I served as vice president in the 2021-2022 committee. This role enabled me to connect with fellow Thai students, organize events, and build friendships. Joining the university ambassador program also introduced me to friends from different years, majors, and countries. Ultimately, building friendships abroad is a multifaceted experience influenced by individual lifestyles, shared interests, and personal chemistry. The key is to be open-minded, proactive, and willing to step outside your comfort zone.

Field of Study

I have been fascinated by building materials since my undergraduate studies in architecture, and I knew that I would like to do further study in this field when I was in master’s studies in architecture, specifically building technology. To deepen my understanding of concrete materials and their potential to enhance architectural design, I chose to pursue a second master's degree in civil engineering in Iwanami lab at Tokyo Tech/Science Tokyo, a globally renowned institution for its expertise in building construction and materials. By embracing the intersection of architecture and concrete technology, architects can elevate their practice and contribute to the creation of more sustainable, innovative, and enduring structures. In today's rapidly evolving world, driven by technological advancements and artificial intelligence, a diverse skillset and specialized knowledge are essential for career success. By combining architectural expertise with a deep understanding of concrete technology, I believe I can position myself for a fulfilling and impactful career in the field.

Pursuing Architecture and Civil Engineering

The academic and research environments for architecture in my home country and civil engineering in Japan are vastly different. I've come to realize that pursuing either architecture or engineering is equally challenging, demanding hard work, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility. However, I prefer the academic and research environment in Japan, and I believe choosing to study civil engineering was the right decision to step outside my comfort zone.

My architecture studies were often demanding, leading to late nights and sleep deprivation, particularly during projects. Over six years of undergraduate and graduate studies, I accumulated significant sleep debt, which ultimately resulted in a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Despite careful management of my diet and health, I worry about the long-term impact of this career path, especially considering the potential health costs that may outweigh future income and achievements.

In contrast, the academic and research environment in civil engineering in Japan offers a more balanced lifestyle. I've enjoyed learning new knowledge and conducting experiments. I've also enjoyed exploring the connections between architecture and civil engineering, which has opened new career possibilities, particularly in research. The typical workday in a civil engineering lab, from 8 AM to 8 PM, allows for regular sleep and leisure time. I've been able to engage in various sports activities, including swimming, yoga, kickboxing, and Pilates, which have significantly improved my overall health and well-being. Moreover, I've found a genuine passion for research. The logical and systematic nature of research aligns with my interests and allows me to work without feeling burdened. It feels more like pursuing a hobby than a job. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Iwanami laboratory, receive the Japanese government (MEXT) scholarship, have very supportive parents, and my past experience as an architect as it has helped me discover my true passion.