午夜剧场

It feels like I started my research without even realizing it, but if I had to pinpoint a starting moment, it would be when I took the "Foundations of Statistics" lecture (I'm a bit hazy on the exact name, but it was something like that) from Professor Masahito Kobayashi of Yokohama National University, who is also my mentor. That lecture was the catalyst that led me to study statistics, econometrics, and eventually time series analysis. My interest in statistics grew steadily through that course. Although my official research areas are listed above, I want to continue researching any field that piques my interest.

What I find truly exciting about research is the thrill of understanding something that was previously unknown and being the one to discover it (even if it's a small discovery), as if you're the only person in the world who knows it at that moment (though, of course, there's always the possibility that someone else has already discovered it and I just don't know). I believe that all fields of research share this kind of enjoyment. I think any field would be interesting and enjoyable once you try it, so perhaps the question of which field to research comes down to which one you happen to encounter first.

I want all students to be strongly aware that studying is not something you are taught by others, but something you do for yourself. To that end, please make full use of the university's resources, such as your professors and the library. When you don't understand something, I recommend first thinking it through thoroughly on your own and looking it up in textbooks and reference materials. Get into the habit of thinking for yourself. Of course, balance is important, so if you feel completely stuck, don't hesitate to ask your professors questions. These four years, when you have the freedom to study what you want, are precious. Please do your best to make your four years at university fruitful.

(Interview conducted in December 2011)