Canadian Academy alumna Mei Sanno (Class of 2023) is already making waves in the scientific community. Recently, she published her first research paper, Nanobubbles and Fibroblast Growth: An In Vitro Study on Cell Migration and Proliferation, a product of her curiosity and dedication during an internship at Kobe University’s Department of Plastic Surgery.
Mei’s journey toward medicine began with her love of sports and an interest in the science behind physical performance and nutrition. At CA, she studied Biology, Chemistry, and Math AI at higher levels, which nurtured her growing passion for science. Supported by inspiring teachers like Mr. Heading and Dr. Sheu, and shaped by her experiences on the volleyball, softball, and tennis courts, Mei found her calling in the medical field.
Now preparing to study medicine at Okayama University, Mei reflects on her journey:
"Publishing my first research paper was exhilarating. Applying what I learned at school to real-world research and seeing it make an impact was incredibly rewarding. It’s just the beginning, and I’m excited to grow as a researcher and future doctor."
To current students and families at CA, Mei shares a heartfelt message:
"Though we each take our own unique path, it’s comforting to know that Kobe and CA will always be a place we can come back to."
We reached out to Mei recently to find out more about her experience:
1. What were your final year subjects at CA?
HL: Biology, Math AI, Geography
SL: Chemistry, English, Japanese A
2. Is there anything that drew you to science?
Growing up, I was deeply involved in sports and fascinated by the mechanisms that allowed me to perform physically, as well as the role nutrition played in enhancing performance. Later in high school, I realized that I genuinely enjoyed learning about science—I never dreaded it and often went out of my way to satisfy my curiosities. This passion affirmed my decision to pursue medicine.
3. Is there anyone at CA who helped you along the way?
My English teacher, Mr. Heading (who left CA), Sayaka-san, Mr. Monty, Dr. Sheu, and my sports coaches.
4. Apparently, you were also sporty—what sports did you play?
In school, I played volleyball and softball. Out of school, I played tennis (since 3rd grade, I think).
5. Is there anything that drew you to choose that topic for your research paper?
During my internship at Kobe University’s Department of Plastic Surgery, one of my tasks involved studying microbubble applications in wound healing. Writing a research paper wasn’t part of my initial plan, but my curiosity about the results naturally led me to this opportunity.
6. At such a young age, how do you feel about publishing a research paper?
It was incredibly exciting to apply the knowledge I learned in school to real-life research and see it come to fruition in a meaningful way. Although both the paper and I are still a work in progress, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far. I hope to use this experience as a stepping stone to further contribute to the field and grow as a researcher and future doctor.
7. While you wait for university to start, how do you spend your time?
I just finished getting my driver’s license and am currently working on getting my motorcycle license! I’m also getting back into tennis to prepare to play for my university club.
8. As an alumna, do you have any message for students or families at CA?
Even though everyone is on their own path (often scattered around the world, quite literally), it’s comforting to know that Kobe and CA will always be a place we can come back to.
We’re so proud of Mei’s achievements and can’t wait to see the incredible contributions she will make to medicine in the future!
Click here to read Mei's research paper!
