MEXT Scholarship Series: Studies at the University of Tsukuba - Bobby Sookhoo

My name is Bobby Basil Sookhoo, 24 years old. I am from north Trinidad, Tacarigua to be exact. As of April 2019 I began my studies at the University of Tsukuba located in Ibaraki prefecture, Japan. The University is very big, it is the second widest University in Japan and ranks in the top 10 in Japan. The university also boasts of being very internationally involved as it usually accepts a lot of international students.
 

As a research student, I will be focusing on but not limited to, molecular functions of the bacterium Staphylococcus Aureus. As this bacteria normally resides in us, it is also an opportunistic pathogen that can cause great illness. My aim is to elucidate functions of the genes of the bacterium not yet known, such as some of the esp genes. I hope unravel novel mysteries and develop innovative methods that can prevent illness from this bacteria that can be used in the medical industry.
 

In addition to conducting research, I am studying Japanese and preparing to enter the Medical Science Master’s program. After the hectic first week, I have settled comfortably in my dormitory, met my professors and colleagues and learnt about the university a little more. The work has already begun to get intense, which is what I expected. There are a lot of students aside from my lab colleagues that are always welcoming and are glad to assist in anyway they can. The staff is also very understanding of any problems us students may have and promptly try to help.
 

At the end of April there was a Hanami event which is a Japanese event for Sakura flower viewing. From my faculty, each different lab and their members prepared a dish to be served at the event. It was a great opportunity to meet other students and professors from the other labs.
 

Being a MEXT student is a great opportunity for persons who are willing to pursue their studies and experience Japan and its culture. The scholarship allows the students to devote their time to their studies without the burden of financial problems. There are various Universities that are open to accepting MEXT students every academic year.
 

Apart from doing your own studies, there is a lot of Japanese culture to experience. Through this opportunity I hope to learn a lot at the University of Tsukuba as well as travel and experience the Japanese culture.
 

It is important to know that having this scholarship is a big responsibility and should not been seen as an opportunity for a vacation.


MEXT Scholarship Series: Studies at the University of Tsukuba (Japanese Embassy Facebook)


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