Asako Okura

Please tell us about your current job (responsibilities, challenges, rewards, etc.).

Our department manages the infrastructure of office systems used by clients. We work closely together with these clients to ensure their projects go smoothly. I have been involved in a mail system upgrade project for one year now.
During my first six months in the company, I received plenty of training, sharply increased my qualifications, and learned how to make use of the basic technology utilized at the company. After being assigned to this position, I have worked together with highly skilled colleagues to improve my abilities in exploiting more sophisticated technologies. Our customers always require the highest of technical capabilities. When I can provide them with what they need, I feel a sense of accomplishment.

How is the knowledge and experience gained at Tokyo Tech being utilized in your current position?

In two significant ways. Firstly, I use my knowledge and experience when deciding how to explain issues to clients in the best possible way. At the Department of Mathematics,
I learned how to apply theory to my explanations, and speak to others in a logical manner. My mathematical train of thought still helps me in many ways.
Secondly, I use my Tokyo Tech experiences when I myself am learning something new. Although I joined an industry outside my field of specialization, I haven’t really experienced any severe difficulties. I think this is because of the perseverance I developed through the study of mathematics. As one of my professors once said, “Not many things take more doggedness than learning on your own through math textbooks.” To this day, I do my best every day to hone my technical sophistication.

What are your future goals?

I aim to become a project manager with a wide range of knowledge and the ability to coordinate the diverse skill sets that engineers possess. To achieve this, I want to experience various types of projects and continue to develop my expertise. Additionally, I am trying to engage in English communication with foreigners so that I can work with an international team, as I would like to provide services to overseas clients in the future.

Please write a message to students aiming for Tokyo Tech.

If you feel strongly about wanting to learn something — even without the guidance of others — go with it! Tokyo Tech is a place where you can study with people who are passionate about learning in a friendly yet competitive environment. It is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in your interests.
Increase your expertise, and be proud. Everything you learn at university will be of use to you. Be confident, and your experiences will most certainly help you in the future.

The content of this article was accurate at the time of the interview.

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