May 28, 2025
Today, we had the pleasure of visiting Keio University, one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions, as part of our study abroad experience. This particular stop on our journey was especially exciting for me, as I had been looking forward to learning more about the university's approach to human services research and engaging in meaningful dialogue with graduate students studying gerontology.
From the moment we arrived, I was struck by the beauty and openness of the Keio campus. It reminded me of college campuses back in the United States—wide, green spaces filled with trees, walkways, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for both socializing and studying. As we walked onto the campus, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Akihiro Hirata and a group of graduate students. What made this moment particularly special was that the students greeted us with personalized welcome signs—a small gesture that made a lasting impact and set the tone for the day.
As we explored the campus, I took in the scenery, snapping pictures and recording videos to capture the ambiance. The blend of modern architecture and natural beauty created a space that felt both intellectually stimulating and emotionally comforting. The building we entered featured stunning glass walls that allowed for uninterrupted views of the greenery outside—a design that truly fostered a sense of openness and clarity.
Once inside, we were treated to an array of snacks, drinks, and traditional Japanese sweets, which was such a thoughtful and appreciated gesture, especially after a long walk. It immediately made us feel welcomed and cared for. We also created name tags and began to socialize with the Keio students before the session officially began.
The academic exchange kicked off with a presentation by Dr. Yuko Oguma, who provided an overview of the day’s agenda. Following the introduction, we had the opportunity to present and introduce ourselves as students from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. As I spoke, I was genuinely moved by how attentive and interested the Keio students were in our topics. Their engagement made me feel at ease and truly valued in this cross-cultural academic setting.
The Keio graduate students then delivered their own presentations, which were both informative and inspiring. I took detailed notes and photos, eager to absorb as much as I could. It was incredibly eye-opening to hear about the innovative ways these students were approaching issues in health and aging. Knowing that students halfway across the world were working toward similar goals reaffirmed the importance of global collaboration in human services and public health.
After the presentations, we gathered for a group photo and engaged in casual discussion. Many of the Keio students shared their experiences studying in the U.S. and introduced us to some of their favorite Japanese snacks and cultural traditions. It was a fun and heartfelt exchange, and I was fortunate to swap business cards with several students—connections I hope to maintain for years to come.
This visit was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of our trip. The warmth, hospitality, and intellectual curiosity of the Keio University community left a lasting impression on me. I left feeling inspired, grateful, and more connected to the global network of future healthcare professionals dedicated to improving lives through research, compassion, and service.
Nigel Thomas-Gibson
University of Maryland School of Pharmacy