This Biophysics Week, we're highlighting some of the outstanding members of our Student Chapter program. Today, we'll hear from Wakana Yamashita, a 2nd year Pharmacy major at the Sanyo-Onoda City University Student Chapter.
What inspired you to study biophysics?
I have a strong interest in dementia. This is because it is a disease that can affect anyone, and the thought that patients might forget the people closest to them is heartbreaking. However, no definitive cure has been established. Faced with this reality, I began to seriously consider how I could contribute to solving this problem. Therefore, I decided to study pharmacy in order to gain a deeper understanding of this disease and contribute to the development of effective treatments.
What do you think makes the study of biophysics unique?
I think what makes biophysics unique is that it allows for research across a wide range of fields. While listening to research presentations by students and professors at academic conferences, I realized that experiments in biological research don’t just involve using animals; they also measure factors such as energy and reaction rates and analyze them from a physical perspective. I felt that the strength of biophysics lies in its ability to bridge biology and physics, thereby enabling research across a broad spectrum of fields.
What skill have you learned in your studies that you find useful in other aspects of your life?
Through my studies, I have come to realize the importance of relying on those around me. I often struggle with understanding reaction mechanisms and cannot always figure them out on my own, so I ask my teachers and friends for help. This has allowed me to better understand what is happening in reactions, and I have learned not to hesitate to seek assistance.
Similarly, by asking my family and friends for advice on cooking and cleaning, I have become more efficient at housework. These experiences have taught me that relying on others is a shortcut to understanding and growth, and that asking questions without hesitation is valuable in many situations.
What is your dream career?
I am considering a career as either a hospital pharmacist or a researcher. My hometown is very rural, and there is a shortage of pharmacists. For this reason, I would like to work as a hospital pharmacist so that all patients can take their medications with peace of mind.
At the same time, I am also interested in becoming a researcher specializing in dementia. I believe that if I can help develop medications to treat dementia, I will be able to support not only the patients themselves but also the people around them.
At this point, I haven’t decided on a single career path, but whichever path I choose, I want to be someone who can support patients not only physically but also emotionally.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am proud to be a member of the student chapter and to be actively involved in its activities. Specifically, I participate in language exchanges and local volunteer work. In the language exchange program, I communicate with American college students via phone or text to discuss our respective cultures and lifestyles. Through this activity, I have significantly improved my English skills. This proved very helpful when listening to research presentations and asking questions at the conference I recently attended. Since learning English helps expand my future possibilities, I plan to continue participating actively.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about studying biophysics?
I believe it is essential to thoroughly understand the fundamentals of both biology and physics. For that reason, I think it’s important to actively ask questions of those around you rather than trying to figure things out on your own when you’re stuck. Through my own studies, I’ve come to realize the importance of relying on others.
Furthermore, I believe the most important thing is to keep thinking about fields that interest you. Engaging with what you love gives you the strength to overcome obstacles, even when you hit a wall in your studies. Additionally, I think it is crucial to clearly define your goals, as this helps you see exactly what you need to do.