Since I entered the university, I have a dream - to visit Japan. When my teacher shared information about the NIGINTERN-2018 program, I thought - "I must do it!". Of course, I was hoping that I would be able to join the program, but I was really surprised to receive a letter with the words that I really can join this program.

I eagerly waited for day of departure and carefully prepared for it. It was my first trip so far from my country, so it was exciting. But I had absolutely no doubt about my choice, thanks to General Affairs/Education Team of National Institute of Genetics and their support.

Here comes that long-awaited day of departure. Even a long flight did not spoil my impressions of this fantastic country. When I was traveling by train from Tokyo to Mishima, I could not believe my eyes, I saw an absolutely different world: different people, different houses, even different plants around. But, when I finally came to the institute, I realized that here everyone was always ready to help and support me, because I was very far from home.

I joined the Ikeo group - DNA Data analysis laboratory. I was afraid that I would not be able to work in this laboratory, because it is completely different from what I'm studying in my university, but thanks to Ikeo-sensey I figured out everything I did not understand and chose the perfect subject for study. Under the supervision of the professor and other members of the laboratory, I confidently studied the papers and methods that interest me. Other members of the laboratory were also very friendly and sympathetic. When you are far from home, it is very important to understand that there are people around who are ready to help at any moment.

During Laboratory Visit weeks, we got acquainted with the activities of other laboratories and the leading professors of laboratories.

Of course, during our free time we tried to get to know more about Japanese culture, architecture and food.

During the internship I met interesting people from different countries, learned a lot about the different cultures and traditions.

I am grateful to my lab’s members and members of NIGINTERN committee who cared about us interns every minute of our internship. I want to say Thanks to other interns and peoples who helped me. I want to say Thanks to all Japan for great food, culture and my fantastic journey. At the end, I truly enjoyed these 6 weeks in NIG. I promise I will try to visit NIG again in the future!