Lab's Sketch
Our laboratory has a thirty-year tradition of conducting a "summer school." This is a good opportunity to deepen close friendships among members.

"I remember that this has been a tradition since the predecessor of this laboratory that I belonged to as a student, so it means it has been going on for more than 30 years," says Professor Takahashi. A fourth-year student of the department acts as the organizer, as is customary. Each member creates their own itinerary (destination, areas for sightseeing, local specialties, accommodations etc.) and presents their plan to all of the lab members. The destination is chosen by popular vote.

Professor Takahashi also says, "We used to have lectures too, but because the timeframe is short, our goal is to deepen mutual, close friendships among members." The attendance rate is almost 100%, a point worthy of special mention. This "summer school" is a three-day trip, with the first day spent camping having fun and the second day spent at a hot spring inn or hotel relaxing. On the first day's barbecue, Professor Takahashi always enjoys cooking and serving food for everyone. Incidentally, his superb cooking skills are well known.

For third-year students who have been accepted into the lab but have not yet fully started their own research, this "summer school" is a golden opportunity to have long talks with their seniors and teachers. At times, there will be "deep" conversations that they would not have elsewhere well into the night.

A scene from "Summer School" 2013.