Do What You Truly Want to Do: From Graduate School to the World of Academia
University of Tsukuba
- 2014 Graduated from the Department of Industrial Design, School of Design
- 2016 Finished the Master's Program at the Department of Kansei Science, Graduate School of Integrated Frontier Sciences, Kyushu University
- 2020 Finished the Doctoral Program at the Department of Kansei Science, Graduate School of Integrated Frontier Sciences, Kyushu University
- 2020- 2024 Department of Developmental Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Research fellow
- 2024- Present Junior Assistant Professor, Department of Disability Sciences, Institute of Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba
Related department, course
- Industrial Design Course（Undergraduate)
- Department of Industrial Design
My current job
I am a junior assistant professor at the University of Tsukuba in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture. While learning about the management of undergraduate and graduate programs, I am conducting research on developmental disorders (such as ADHD and autism spectrum disorder) using psychological methods, with the cooperation of my fellow researchers. I still get nervous when collecting valuable data from individuals with developmental disorders, and the research doesn't always progress as I hope, but I enjoy my daily activities.
How I spent my student life
During the four years of taking classes from professors with a wide range of expertise in design, ergonomics, and cognitive science, I was able to clearly identify my interests, strengths, and weaknesses. After being assigned to a laboratory, it was refreshing and exciting to conduct research on my own theme, and I spent a considerable amount of time on it. It was a period where I could fully engage in valuable experiences, such as trying everything on my own through trial and error, taking detours, and making mistakes, with support from my teachers, friends, and family.
Message for prospective students
I feel that Geiko provides a well-equipped environment, both in terms of people and resources, where you can focus on your interests and concerns. Especially in the Department of Industrial Design, there were many valuable opportunities to deepen my thoughts on humans and human society from different perspectives, such as design, ergonomics, and cognitive science, including issues in art history and everyday life. I hope you will have a meaningful university life as a place to accumulate skills that will be useful even after entering society.