Hi there! I’m Arthur, a fourth-year medical student at the Keck School of Medicine of USC with plans to pursue a combined Medicine-Pediatrics residency and a Hematology/Oncology fellowship. I studied molecular biology and public health at UC Berkeley, where I also earned my MPH. During these years, I became increasingly interested in global health and epidemiological research as avenues to extend the impact of my work to larger populations and address health disparities on a larger scale. This eventually led to my partner suggesting that I apply for a Fulbright research grant to Japan, which would give me the opportunity to get further in touch with my Japanese heritage while working with internationally renowned cancer researchers. I initially thought the idea sounded neat but didn’t think I had a realistic chance of winning the award. Still, when it came time to apply, I decided to give it a shot. I began preparing my application towards the end of 2022, with no idea that almost two full years later, I would be flying to Japan to begin my year as a Fulbrighter.

Outside of work, I’ve been trying to make the most of my time off to explore the country and the culture, and maybe learn a thing or two about myself along the way. Biking around Tokyo, weaving through narrow alleyways, bustling streets, beautiful parks and tucked-away temples. Watching the sun set over the endless Tokyo skyline. Attending lectures at the University of Tokyo and conferences in south Shikoku. Inhaling delicious Japanese cuisine at every opportunity (despite the variety of incredible dishes to choose from, I always find myself coming back to a simple bowl of kitsune udon as my proven favorite). Experiencing hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in Yoyogi Park. Destroying my legs running marathons along the Tosa bay and at the base of Mount Fuji. Visiting Hiroshima and reflecting on the immense effort and sacrifice required to build and maintain peace. My most adventurous excursion was over the New Year’s holiday, when I went on a biking trip through Kansai, circling the stunning Lake Biwa and making my way through Kyoto, Uji, Nara, and Osaka before returning to Kyoto. I wandered through Kyoto’s ancient temples, sipped artisan matcha tea in Uji, made friends with the deer in Nara, and took in the bright neon streets of Osaka at night.