There is a saying: "Getting an education from MIT has been likened to taking a drink from a fire hose." My experience with the NIG internship was quite similar. Hoping to delve into theoretical ecology research, I joined the Yamamichi lab. During my time there, Yamamichi-san was always meticulous in guiding me through the intricacies of the prey-predator model. Despite struggling to keep up with the textbook reading sessions every Wednesday—often staying up late in the dorm without fully understanding the material—the entire process was incredibly satisfying.

I am especially grateful to Yamamichi-san for his patience and passion for teaching. Over these six weeks, he transformed me from a student who feared mathematics into someone who finds biological models fascinating and is eager to pursue further research in the field. As the old Chinese saying goes, "The master leads you to the door, but you must enter by yourself." When applying for the internship program, my goal was to learn about theoretical ecology. After six weeks, I feel I have begun to understand it. I will continue to work hard on this path, and I am deeply thankful for the enlightenment provided by Yamamichi-san and the opportunity given to me by the NIG internship.

Additionally, I am also very grateful to Saito-san, her colleagues, and the housekeeping staff at the guest house. Because of you all, the 42 days of my NIG internship went smoothly and joyfully.