First of all, I would like to thank Hokkaido University and North-Eastern Federal University for giving me the opportunity to attend this summer school.
All activities held there were very interesting and I learned a lot about issues regards to current forest condition, permafrost, vegetation. Every lecture during this program was very detailed and informative.
From the lectures in field school “Spasskaya Pad” I learned a lot about interaction between vegetation and permafrost, biodiversity of Yakutian forest, forest fires role in the lifecycle of forest, carbon exchange in permafrost ecosystems and dendrochronological science. I used these theoretical knowledge in my practice during field work and also when making my project about “Vegetation type. Production. Biomass and Leaf Area Index.”.
From the beginning of the program everything was on high-level organisation. The studying proccess with students and professors from Russia and Japan was very interesting and fruitful. Everyone actively took part in discussions and project preparation.
I am convinced that Hokkaido University is one of the best in the world.
As for cultural experience, I enjoyed Japanese traditional activities as origami, tea ceremony, and also trying Japanese kimono. Hokkaido is a very beautiful place and we had a chance to visit Biratori Town and learn about Ainu people culture and lifestyle there.
I wish the topic on Ainu people stays active in Japan and they will get help to preserve their culture and language.
Also I learned about international cooperation proccess and also evaluated possibilities to conduct my reasearch in Japan. Hokkaido University has everything what any student or researcher needs.
All knowledge I got from lectures and practical courses broaden my background and I will use them in my current research.
I would definetely like to continue my participation in this program in the future.
It was my first experience of studying with foreign students and I enjoyed it very much. Japanese participants have a lot of knowledge and while working they are very responsible and dedicated. Their interest and enthusiasm about Yakutian forest and permafrost surprised and inspired me.
I want to thank everyone who participated in this program and wish luck in their further research!