I am very grateful to NIGINTERN program for it has given me the opportunity to spend my summer doing research in Japan. It was a wonderful experience for I definitely have learned a lot, as well as made lasting friendship here. I really appreciate the warm welcome and support from everyone in Sawa-sensei’s lab (Multicellular Organization Laboratory). During my time here, I examined CWN-2 localization on mutated C. elegans strain and imaged them using confocal microscope. Although it was my first time working with C. elegans as a model, the entire project was interesting and I was able to gain a lot of new knowledge, such as picking worm (quite nerve-racking at the beginning as they are quite small). I am really thankful for the instruction and endless patience from Samal, Sawa-sensei, as well as support from Negishi-san, Matsuo-san, Asakawa-san, Hashimoto-san, and Nakajima-san.

Moreover, I also had the chance to enjoy the wonderful Japanese food and culture, and learn some useful Japanese phrases in the provided Japanese class by Miyauchi-sensei. Mishima was truly beautiful as you can see Fuji-san on clear day, and the nature is incredible. Despites the heat of Japan’s summer, I have made unforgettable memories with friends here, such as going to Kawaguchiko and wore yukata, watched beautiful fireworks alongside the Shimoda beach, as well as dancing under the rain with yukata at the Mishima Light festival, etc.!

This 6-week-internship was truly wonderful and enriching in many aspects. I have made valuable friendships and memories that I am very thankful for. I cannot wait to visit Japan and Mishima again!