On July 18, 2025, 30 sixth-grade students from Yamagata University Affiliated Elementary School had a unique opportunity to dive into the world of cutting-edge science during their visit to the International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN) at the University of Tokyo.
The day began with an inspiring talk by Dr. Masamitsu Iino, IRCN Special Advisor to Director and an alumnus of the same school’s junior high division. He spoke with warmth and enthusiasm about what inspired him to pursue a career in research, sharing his own journey and the excitement of being a researcher, capturing the students’ full attention. The students were fascinated as he introduced examples of his cutting-edge research on calcium signaling and insulin, and soon the lecture hall was filled with eager hands and enthusiastic questions.
One highlight of the session was a surprise letter from a current student at the University of Tokyo. Nine years ago, he had sat in the same seats and listened to Dr. Iino’s talk — an experience that inspired him to pursue a path in medicine. The elementary school students listened intently to their senior’s encouraging words and appeared genuinely motivated by his message.
Following the lecture, the students toured the Museum of Health and Medicine at the faculty of medicine. Guided by Dr. Iino, they explored the structure of the human body, learned about milestones in medical innovation, and experienced hands-on exhibits that introduced the most recent advances in health and biomedical science.
Many students shared the impressions including comments, such as:
“I used to think the University of Tokyo was out of reach, but now I want to work hard and try to enter.”
“The idea that research means being the first in the world to discover something really inspired me.”
“I learned how important it is not to give up.”
This visit provided an inspiring opportunity for the students and encouraged them to reflect on their future goals and possibilities.
