Crimson Global Academy is proud to introduce one of our extraordinary students, Erin Isozu, who was selected by JETRO (The Japan External Trade Organization) to participate in the Tech Science Student Human Resources Dispatch Programme in Silicon Valley.

Between September 18th and 25th, Erin had the opportunity to engage with prominent tech firms such as Apple and Google and further her understanding at Stanford University. Out of 90 students who made it to the second round of selections, Erin secured her spot among the top 30. Impressively, she stood out as the youngest participant in this elite group.

Insights from Silicon Valley

1. How did you feel when you learned you were selected for the Tech Science Student Human Resources Dispatch Programme to Silicon Valley?

I was genuinely surprised when I found out that I had been selected for the Tech Science Student Human Resources Dispatch Programme to Silicon Valley. It was an unexpected honor, as I had dreamt of visiting Silicon Valley ever since I was a child. I'd heard about the innovative products and services that originated there, making the opportunity even more special.

2. What were some of the most memorable experiences during your visit to Silicon Valley?

It's difficult to summarize my unforgettable experiences in just a few sentences since there were countless moments that left a lasting impression. However, two specific events stand out. The first was our visit to Google, where a Japanese Google employee gave us a tour of their headquarters. It felt like a university campus with employees strolling through open, green spaces, having casual conversations, and even playing beach volleyball. Inside the organization, it was clear that, despite the fun environment, they adhered to a tough, results-driven culture.

In Silicon Valley, employees' worth is often assessed based on their backgrounds and achievements, with companies hiring based on these scores. The experience at Google highlighted the stark contrast between the lively exterior and the demanding internal culture.

3. As the youngest participant among the 30 students, what challenges and opportunities did you encounter during the program?

Being the youngest participant didn't pose significant challenges for me. I actively engaged with my fellow students, initiating conversations, and had the opportunity to exchange ideas during both workshops and free time. It was a meaningful experience, and I felt treated as an equal among my peers.

4. How has this experience impacted your academic and career aspirations?

This experience has profoundly influenced my academic and career aspirations. During a design thinking workshop, I learned the intricacies of customer interviews, and I was introduced to the concept that "research is not about converging but diverging." This perspective has since guided my approach to interviews. I also had the privilege of working with a teammate who excelled at interviews, using a structured approach to ensure that the questions we asked flowed naturally and avoided causing discomfort. This method has become invaluable to me as I pursue my own ventures.

Furthermore, I gained insight into Silicon Valley's labor market, where one's worth is determined by a standardised scoring system. In a results-oriented employment system like this, the emphasis on quantitative outcomes was quite intimidating. Hearing about the potential layoff of entire teams in the event of project failure, as described by the Google employee, made me realize the need to shift my mindset from being "self-centered" to optimizing tasks as a team. This perspective has been instrumental in shaping my career goals.

5. What advice would you give to other students who aspire to achieve similar success in the tech and science fields?

In Japan, there is a saying, "百聞は一見にしかず," which translates to "Seeing is believing." This means that, rather than relying solely on what you hear, it is crucial to visit a place in person, witness it with your own eyes, and confirm it firsthand. Personally, I believe in the value of experiencing things directly rather than relying solely on online research or working from home.

My journey to Silicon Valley allowed me to explore various workplaces and engage with the people working there. I had the opportunity to hear the voices of those in the field. To all students, I encourage you not to fear challenges and to step out of your comfort zone. Remember, it's essential to explore and experience new opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Embrace the unknown, just as I did in Silicon Valley.

Erin's Journey: A Benchmark of Excellence

Erin's experience in Silicon Valley serves as a testament to the caliber of students at Crimson Global Academy. Her keen observations and interactions with the tech industry's frontrunners have not only enriched her own academic journey but also set an example for her peers at CGA.

Her story underscores the significance of proactively pursuing learning opportunities and highlights how such experiences can shape one's academic and professional trajectory. Erin's journey serves as an inspiration to all students, demonstrating the limitless possibilities that await when one is driven by curiosity and a commitment to excellence.