I had my first contact with Japan through a local friendship city exchange program as a junior high school student. At just 13 years old, my two-week visit to Japan was split between a sightseeing tour in Kyoto and a homestay in Iwate Prefecture. Experiencing Japan’s traditional culture alongside the realities of modern daily life, my curiosity in Asia was sparked.

“Remember the big picture and learn to let go.” Too often in life, the best of us can get distracted by insignificant details and lose track of the big picture. It is important that we remember to step back, reevaluate our situation, and let go of things that don’t matter. Rather than focusing on the past, it is better to look to the future. This motto helps me do just that.

Rather than one achievement, over my career I am proudest of all moments where I have had an impact on patients’ lives. Whether launching a new medicine or driving change in public policy that improves access to innovative medicines, the moments in which I have had a tangible impact on patients are my proudest.

My goal can be described in one word — “growth.” I strongly believe that putting yourself in an unfamiliar environment has the power to catalyze significant personal and professional growth. I am confident that my time in Japan will challenge me to rethink how I approach both business and life, and in doing so change me as a person.