Impact Beyond Campus
Fundamental in shaping both my academic path and personal growth, extending its impact far beyond campus
Mauricio Azael Sanchez del Angel
Mexico
IIST, Graduate School of Science and Engineering
Major in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
The reason for studying in Japan / entering Hosei University
I am from Nuevo León, Mexico, and I entered Hosei University in September 2024 as a master’s student in the Major in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. My decision to study in Japan was shaped by a long-standing admiration for the country’s culture, which began in my youth through anime, manga, and music. Over time, this interest naturally led me to learn the Japanese language. Rather than visiting Japan briefly as a tourist, I wanted to truly experience daily life and immerse myself in the culture. This motivation encouraged me to apply for a scholarship supported by the MEXT and pursue graduate studies in Japan.
Before coming to Hosei University, I worked as a production engineer at DENSO in Mexico, a Japanese company. My general manager, Mr. Akira Yamaguchi, was a Hosei University graduate, which sparked my curiosity. Although he did not directly invite me to enter the university, my own research led me to believe that Hosei was an excellent academic and research-oriented environment aligned with my goals.
Your activities and experiences at Hosei University
At Hosei University, I belong to Professor Kazuyuki Ito’s laboratory, which specializes in soft robotics, an area focused on mimicking animal-like characteristics in robotic systems. My research project integrates a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) with a soft robotic arm inspired by an octopus, aiming to improve intuitive control for people with disabilities.
This is a flexible manipulator inspired by Octopi one of the first projects of the laboratory using soft robotics that picked my interest in this laboratory.
In addition to my research, I have worked as a Teaching Assistant, supporting professors with lectures, materials, and grading, which has strengthened both my technical and communication skills.
My laboratory colleagues—mostly Japanese, along with international students from China and Ethiopia—played a vital role in my adaptation. They guided me when I first arrived, helped me select my research topic, and included me in daily activities such as meals and cultural events like the Hosei University festival. Although I was happy for them when they graduated, their departure motivated me to work harder and aim to graduate with the same sense of accomplishment.
What you have gained and grown from these activities and experiences
Beyond campus, I enjoy visiting temples and collecting goshuin in my goshuincho. Visiting Kamakura, including Kotoku-in Temple, home to the Great Buddha, as well as temples such as Hasedera and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, has been deeply meaningful to me. These experiences allow me to connect with Japan beyond academics.
Through my time at Hosei, my Japanese language ability, independence, and problem-solving skills have grown significantly. My future goal is to return to Mexico and work as an engineer who bridges cultures—contributing technically while also serving as a professional translator between Spanish, English, and Japanese. Hosei University has been fundamental in shaping both my academic path and personal growth, extending its impact far beyond campus.
