KIT Student’s Journey in Hiraizumi, Japan

For most Software Engineering students, the world is defined by lines of code and

logical structures. But for Hour Seth Thavareak, a Batch 11 student, the true meaning of "Digital Transformation" (DX) didn’t click until he left the classroom behind for the quiet, snowy landscapes of Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture.

Thavareak recently returned from a three-month exchange program in Japan—a journey that was less about learning new syntax and more about understanding how technology actually serves people.

A Masterclass in Frictionless Living

Japan is famous for its "invisible" efficiency, and for Thavareak, experiencing it firsthand was eye-opening. He found himself in a world where the trains are never late and daily life moves with a rhythmic precision.

"It’s a remarkably stress-free environment," he reflects. But it wasn't just the sleek infrastructure that caught his attention; it was the social fabric. He found a culture built on deep-seated respect and mutual consideration—a "people-first" philosophy that would eventually shape his view of technology.

Navigating the Language Gap in Rural Japan

While Tokyo is a global hub, Hiraizumi is deep in the Japanese countryside, where English is rarely heard. This could have been a barrier, but Thavareak treated the silence as a problem-solving exercise:

• Going Local: He prioritized learning essential phrases to connect with neighbors.

• Tech as a Bridge: He leaned on translation tools, not just for data, but for human connection.

• Human Patience: He found that the kindness of local residents and fellow students often filled the gaps where words failed.

  
  

More Than Just Code: The DX Mindset

A Software Engineer’s job is rooted in logic, but a DX Promoter must understand the human heart. Thavareak realized that for technology to transform a society, it must respect that society's traditions.

He spent his weekends far from his laptop—participating in local music festivals, sampling the flavors of Iwate, and practicing the quiet mindfulness of Japanese public life. By observing how ancient customs coexist with modern systems, he gained a crucial insight: Digital transformation isn't about replacing the old; it’s about making the old work better for the people who cherish it.

Stepping out of one's comfort zone can be daunting, but as Thavareak learned, the personal and professional growth gained from an international exchange is irreplaceable. It is always better to try to learn than to live with the regret of a missed opportunity.