Journey of Growth at SIPS: Expanding Horizons Through Diverse Fields
Marcia is a Brazilian who was born and raised in Brazil with Japanese heritage. She embarked on an extraordinary journey through Soka University's Graduate School of International Peace Studies (SIPS) in 2021. In 2002, she went to Japan for the first time and had the opportunity to visit Soka University in Hachioji. She was touched by the joyful students and the learning environment of the campus. Marcia cherished the dream to study at Soka University one day. During her time living in Nagoya, she had an encounter with two Brazilian SIPS students in Okinawa where she got to know more about SIPS. She decided that it was a good moment for her to invest in studying something completely out of her comfort zone that resonated with her values of peace and global citizenship.
With a background in electronics engineering and two decades of experience in the aviation industry, the field of social sciences posed significant challenges for Marcia. Grappling with the complexities of remote learning amidst the COVID-19 pandemic further compounded her journey. However, her resilience and determination prevailed as she navigated unfamiliar subjects and adapted to the demands of virtual classrooms.
On the commecement day with her classmates
Upon the reopening of borders in March 2022, she had the opportunity to engage with a diverse cohort of students and faculty, each offering unique perspectives on global issues. Through enriching discussions, collaborative projects, and extracurricular activities, Marcia forged lasting friendships and cherished memories that would shape her SIPS experience. Currently, Marcia is working as a Senior Systems Engineer, specifically focusing on the development of commercial airplanes at Boeing. In addition, she aims to explore future opportunities on sustainability in Brazil, which aligns with her master thesis research.
As Marcia reflects on her journey, she offers words of encouragement to current and future SIPS students.
“Do not be impatient!
Do not retreat or fall behind!
Advance, simply continue
to advance! This is the way
of victorious youth.
All you need do
is advance on your own unique path
true always to yourself!”
(Daisaku Ikeda - "Standing Among the Ruins of Takiyama Castle”)
Everyone’s journey is different. The SIPS program is a great opportunity to grow, develop your skills through the different course subjects, from civil wars to gender studies. I’m sure you will find out that you're stronger than you thought.