Bruno Ribeiro

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Why did you decide to study in Japan?

Simply said, Japan has a cutting-edge technology. I thought I could learn such technology and apply in Brazil. At first, that was the only reason to study in Japan. However, unlike other countries, Japan has a deep historical relationship with Brazil and I was also interested in the Japanese education system and its culture. In addition to learning about the Japanese technology, I decided to study in Japan as it is a good opportunity to learn something intangible and totally different from Brazil such as the education system and culture.

How is your life in Japan?

Life in Japan is the opposite of Brazil. If the two lifestyles had united, it would be almost perfect way of life. Living in Japan is great as it is a very safe country and crimes are rare. On the other hand, it is difficult to fit into Japanese society and it takes a lot of effort.
In terms of financial aspect, the Nikkei Scholarship program is incredibly supportive. Since I began receiving the scholarship, I have been able to focus more on my studies and research. I was able to receive several awards, thanks to the Nikkei Scholarship support.

Tell us about your present study or research.

The subject of my research is ‘The effects on the re-passivation of the rebar in the concrete after the use of the electrochemical desalination method in oxidized rebar’. The purpose of the research is to find out the changes of rebar condition or the re-passivation of the rebar after using the electrochemical desalination method in a state where the rebar in the concrete is oxidized. The research also examines cases when the concrete contains reactive aggregates.

Did your consciousness as a Nikkei change in any way through studying in Japan?

Until a certain point I believed myself to be a Nikkei. However, I began to realize that a Nikkei person needs to have a Japanese look, Japanese name and so on. Without such specific characteristics, people may find you suspicious or there would be some kind of discrimination.

What is your dream for the future?

I would like to do a research to make people’s lives better using what I have learned in Japan. If possible, my dream is to win the Nobel Prize.

Please give a message to students who are considering studying in Japan.

A message to those who are thinking about studying in Japan, for the children of migrant workers in Japan and especially to junior high school and high school students, is to have multiple dreams! Have at least two. Even if you cannot achieve one dream, there will be another dream to achieve. Having dreams is free. You can turn the sadness of not having fulfilled your one dream into strength to move on and reach for the other dream. When you cannot do it alone, take a look around you. There are many people who will support you if you have a dream. You can do anything if you have people like this, so keep doing your best more than ever.

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