Always Asking Myself What I Truly Want to Do

Mobility Services Division, Enterprise Business Unit, Microsoft Japan Co., Ltd
FUJIMAKI Yoshiko

Advantages of Studying at the University of Tsukuba in My Career and Life

Microsoft is often perceived as a company focused primarily on office software; however, I work in the corporate sales division, providing IT solutions for warehouses, factories, dealers, and other mobility-sector businesses, including automobiles, railways, and shipping.

I have long been interested in social contribution, problem-solving in emerging countries, and international cooperation. I once aspired to become a journalist but eventually chose to take a different path. I once aspired to become a journalist, but that path did not materialize. After graduating from the College of Comparative Culture, I worked in overseas marketing for commercial vehicles and later volunteered with the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, gaining consulting experience before eventually joining Microsoft. At each stage in my career, I reflected on my goals and made decisions accordingly. Moreover, Microsoft's active promotion of technology in areas such as disaster recovery and humanitarian aid strongly resonated with me and drew me to the company.

As a student, I made a conscious effort to take classes across various disciplines. Although I cannot single out specific favorites, I valued the opportunity to learn in an interdisciplinary environment. I developed a broad perspective by connecting literature, religion, economics, folklore, and many other fields; this perspective that continues to support my professional work.

My Fondest Memories as a Student

My fondest memory as a student is traveling to Germany during my senior year to conduct fieldwork for my thesis. I spent about three weeks staying with residents while conducting surveys and interviews on Turkish immigration policy in Germany. Having studied in Turkey for a year in high school, I found this experience especially meaningful. Although I initially had no personal ties to Turkey, I was drawn to Islamic culture and art, which shaped my academic interests.

I commuted to the university from my home in Chiba and I did not participate in clubs or student organizations and instead focused on part-time work.

Message to Students of the University of Tsukuba

The University of Tsukuba offers an exceptional learning environment through its diverse faculty and student body. It is a place where students can immerse themselves in experiences unique to university life, while engaging in meaningful conversations about their future career and aspirations. The people I met as a student have become lifelong friends. I encourage you to cherish the present and focus on what you can do now.

Planning for the future is important; however, excessive strategizing can distance you from your own values. I hope you find a balance that feels right and fully engage with what lies ahead.

TSUKUBA ALUMNI (PDF for printing)