A fulfilling and happy study life. As my unforgettable one-year journey as a visiting scholar at NMSH draws to a close, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and awe for the extraordinary experiences I’ve had here. This opportunity has not only enriched my professional growth but also opened my heart to the warmth of human connections and the wonders of Japanese culture. Working alongside the NMSH’s renowned experts in scar management has been nothing short of inspiring. The innovative techniques and meticulous care protocols practiced here—from advanced operation therapies to personalized rehabilitation strategies—have redefined my understanding of patient-centered medicine. Witnessing how these methods dramatically improve patients’ quality of life has ignited my passion to bring such excellence back to my home hospital. To the incredible faculty members who guided me: your wisdom, patience, and generosity have left an indelible mark on my career. Ogawa sensei, Ono sensei and Dohi sensei are very busy every day, but they still take time to teach us; Kondo sensei organized a microsurgery training class to train us for free, and these things are deeply imprinted in my mind. Your willingness to share knowledge transcended language barriers, reminding me that true mentorship is a universal language.
The camaraderie forged with fellow visiting scholars from across the world has been a treasure. Our weekend explorations of Tokyo’s hidden gems, and laughter-filled cultural exchanges transformed strangers into a global family. These connections have taught me that collaboration knows no borders—a lesson I’ll carry forward. Living in this vibrant metropolis has been a masterclass in harmonious contrasts. The efficiency of Tokyo’s transit system (never a minute late!), the convenience of 11/7 stores, and the safety of walking home at midnight coexist beautifully with serene shrines and tea ceremonies. Every neighborhood tells a story—from the neon pulse of Shibuya to the timeless elegance of Asakusa. Japan’s rich heritage has captivated me at every turn. Participating in a Kyoto tea ritual, watching sumo wrestlers train with primal intensity, and joining parties under cherry blossoms have deepened my appreciation for this land’s ability to honor tradition while embracing innovation. I will always remember the echoes of temple bells, the taste of Sushi shared with friends, and the unwavering belief that medicine thrives when compassion and innovation walk hand in hand.ありがとうございます、日本—Thank you for letting me have such an unforgettable, fulfilling and happy study life in 2024！

I greatly appreciate the encouraging nature of the fellowship. I am thankful for the opporunities to participate in surgeries, microsurgery training, and doing research work. Outside of the hospital, I was able to foster lasting friendships with the professors as well as the residents. Thank you very much.

Training in NMS was better than and exceeded my expectations. The consultants, residents and team were all kind, friendly, supportive and extremely willing to teach.