As a biologist from South America, I have experience conducting research on infectious agents responsible for tropical diseases. In my pursuit to strengthen my skills in molecular biology and research, I was awarded a scholarship from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Monbukagakusho). While exploring academic opportunities in Japan, I came across the Master’s Program in Health Innovation at TMGH.
I was impressed by the curriculum and the diverse research areas offered not only by TMGH but also by the Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN) at Nagasaki University. The program includes a broad range of topics —from basic medical sciences and epidemiology to public health and health policy— thus providing a very comprehensive and thorough learning experience. Students from around the world with diverse professional backgrounds participated in the program, making every class a rich, multidisciplinary learning experience that shaped how I approach global health challenges.
Thanks to the program and the support of my professors, I conducted research on Dengue Virus, a pressing issue in my home country. This experience gave me the tools and perspective needed to contribute meaningfully to disease prevention and control efforts.
My time at TMGH and NEKKEN was truly invaluable. I made amazing friends from all over the world, learned from inspiring and renowned professors, and grew not just professionally, but also personally.
After earning my degree from a university school of nursing, I began my career as a public health nurse in a local government, where I was primarily engaged in maternal and child health services as well as infectious disease control. Having aspired to work in international cooperation since high school, I took a personal development leave and was dispatched to Nepal for two years as a member of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV). There, I witnessed firsthand the reality that, despite having established health systems and policies, many rural women were unable to benefit from them. This experience led me to question how people in vulnerable situations could access appropriate health services and lead healthy lives. I decided to pursue my studies at this university to acquire specialized knowledge and systematically develop practical intervention skills.