Since childhood, maps and transport networks had always captivated Haru's imagination. Yet, his journey wasn't a straightforward path. After completing his undergraduate degree in Urban Systems and Computer Science, he initially carved out a career in finance. It was during this professional chapter that he encountered inspiring colleagues who encouraged him to develop deep expertise in a specialised field.
A Leap of Passion
Leaving a stable job to pursue a master’s degree was no small decision. When Haru shared his plans with his parents, their response was revelatory. “While surprised,” he recalls, “they said they had sensed my urge to return to academia.” This moment crystallised his conviction, confirming that his passion for transportation had always been simmering beneath the surface.
The DAAD Scholarship: A Transformative Opportunity
The scholarship was a lifeline that transformed his educational journey. “One major concern I had was the financial impact of leaving my job,” Haru explains. With no income and a negative cash flow each month, the scholarship alleviated his financial worries, allowing him to dedicate himself entirely to academic growth.
A New Perspective
The 铁路与城市交通理学硕士 programme proved to be intensely challenging. Some days comprised 7-8 hours of classes, and in his first semester alone, Haru sat for 13 exams. A standout moment came during an outdoor exercise collecting traffic data—a hands-on experience that brought theoretical concepts to life.
“Having previously worked in an office environment, I hadn’t considered the role of fieldwork in my studies. Realising that my programme involves hands-on experiences like this has made me excited about the places I will explore in the future.”
Perhaps most surprisingly, Haru discovered a genuine love for studying. Once considered too distracting for study sessions, he now found joy in continuous learning. “Now that I feel a strong sense of responsibility for my education and am pursuing a field I am passionate about, studying has become not just manageable but enjoyable,” he shares.
Beyond the Classroom
The journey has fundamentally changed Haru’s perspective. He now pays closer attention to everyday details—from traffic light timing to MRT network design. “The concepts we study are highly applicable to real life,” he reflects, “making me curious about the decision-making processes that shape the built environment.”
Looking ahead, Haru’s goals extend beyond personal achievement. He aims to develop specialised expertise in transportation, with a particular focus on mobility solutions for ageing societies like Japan. His ultimate aspiration is to contribute to the educational side of the field, believing that training future professionals is key to creating sustainable long-term improvements.
A Message of Inspiration
To prospective students, Haru offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: “If your passion aligns with what you want to achieve in life, go for it. The programme is rigorous but rewarding, and pursuing what truly interests you will make the challenges worthwhile.”
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