My name is Masashi Nishiguchi and I graduated from Johoku High School with the class of 2016. I currently study mechanical engineering and mathematics in the United States at the University of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio. I aspire to apply the knowledge and skills garnered through my education within the aerospace to one day become an astronaut. My current areas of study center around fluid dynamics, or the study of fluids in motion, and is a fundamental topic in both mechanical and aerospace engineering. Recently, I was selected to fly out to West Lafayette, Indiana and participate in Purdue University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program. It was here that I conducted research investigating fluid propagation through complex media, such as water seeping into the ground. Interestingly, this relied upon the same science I use for my current research at Mount Union on the behavior of magma, since magma is also a fluid.
As you may suspect, all forms of studying and research here are done in English - there is no Japanese. Then, you may wonder, was English my favorite class when I attended Johoku? The answer is no, not at all! You might find that to be surprising since people are often told that you must be fluent in English to study abroad, especially in the United States. So why did I decide to attend university in the U.S.? I saw studying engineering in the United States as the best option for me for two main reasons. First, the U.S. seemed to have some of the best engineering technologies and opportunities. Secondly, I believed that being able to communicate with people from different countries in English would be vital for me to succeed in the aerospace field, wherein international corporation is indispensable. Thus, I did not consider if I was “good” at English at the time.
I knew that learning engineering in English would be grueling for me. However, I was excited to realize the benefits from studying abroad. This included overcoming both the fear of using English professionally, and the cultural differences I was sure to encounter. I do not say that studying abroad is the best choice for everyone. However, I do encourage everyone to find and know what you are interested in, and, most importantly, be excited about it! Have enthusiasm for what you do so you can challenge yourself in ways previously unimaginable. In my case, my interest was aerospace, and the test was studying abroad. Also, remember that you cannot embark on this journey alone. To push yourself to new and astounding heights, you need the support from your family, friends and teachers. If you show that you have zeal for what you aspire to do, then they will support you. There are many enthusiastic teachers just at Johoku who do not regret their effort and support for you. It is always arduous to do something different from others, or something you have never done before. However, whenever you face your challenge, believe in your passion, feel the love and support from those who believe in you, and enjoy the endeavor.