留学生生活　 XinyueZhaoさん

I came to Hokkaido University in October 2008 to purchase my doctor’s degree. To get the doctor’s degree and become a professor are always my dreams. I have been always trying hard to achieve my dreams. After I got my master’s degree, I have to face the problem that where I should go on my study. Finally, I chose Hokkaido University since Japan has advanced technology in computer science and near my country. More important, the research direction in the laboratory was just what I was interested in, and the professor seemed very kind when I communicated with him through e-mail.

I feel I am very lucky that I joined this laboratory and under the supervision of Professor Kaneko and Professor Tanaka. My professor provides precise guidance, and I am able to perform research in an environment with many advantages. Furthermore, most of the researches in our laboratory are connected with company and institute. This provides good opportunity for students to learn practical applications of technologies and be able to communicate with company people. My research partner is National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), which is one of the biggest and famous institutes in Japan. Besides the ordinary discussion, I also took a 2-month internship in AIST. I am very thankful that I had such experience which was helpful to my academic career. In addition, I have lots of chances to attend conferences in Japan and other foreign countries. To give the presentation at conferences not only promotes my research, but also let me learn a lot.

The atmosphere in our laboratory is very good. Students study hard during the working time, and also enjoy themselves in the spare time. The life in my laboratory is very colorful. The Japanese like parties and drinking, so we have different parties every year, such as the new-year party and farewell party. Besides, we also have lots of other group activities, for example, the baseball game and ski travelling. Hokkaido is famous for its heavy snow and international ski resorts. Playing in the pure snow is a special and wonderful experience for me.

How time flies! I have spent two years and a half here, and it became my most happy time during my student life. I am glad to be an international student in Hokkaido University and all experiences here are my life’s treasures!