STUDENTS VOICE
VOICE OF ENROLLED STUDENTS

Emergency Medical Technology Department
I had the experience of being transported by ambulance, and seeing the paramedics in action inspired me to aim to become an emergency medical technician. I decided to study at SOLA, the only school in the prefecture with an Emergency Medical Technology Department. The classes were challenging, but thanks to my classmates and seniors, I enjoyed every day. Through volunteering and club activities, I was able to expand my knowledge and apply what I learned.
Recently, not only firefighters but also hospital paramedics have been increasing, shining in various situations. I want to continue working hard so that I can also make a difference in this field.

Emergency Medical Technology Department
The reason I chose this department is that after studying nursing in high school, I realized I wanted to be more involved in healthcare as an emergency medical technician, who goes to the scene and offers help to the injured, rather than just waiting for patients at a hospital. That's why I decided to study at SOLA, the only school in the prefecture with an Emergency Medical Technology Department.
At SOLA, I get to hear various stories from teachers with field experience and participate in training that simulates actual emergency situations.

Clinical Engineering Departmen
Before entering the Clinical Engineering Department, I worked in the apparel industry. Prior to that, I cared for my grandfather at home while he battled lung cancer. When he experienced a full-body seizure, I felt helpless, as I could only call out to him without being able to assist. This made me think about whether I could enter the medical field and help people. During my search, I discovered the role of a clinical engineer and decided to study at SOLA Academy, the only school in the prefecture with a Clinical Engineering Department.
At SOLA, I have the opportunity to hear stories from teachers with field experience and current engineers, and I learn a lot from the practical classes and training. Although keeping up with the studies is challenging, I enjoy learning every day thanks to the friends I've made at the academy.

Judo Therapy Department
I have an interest in taping and bandaging, and I want to be able to do it myself. I decided to aim to become a judo therapist because I want to help injured people. When I attended the open campus, the teachers explained everything thoroughly and spoke to us in a friendly manner, which made me feel that I could enjoy learning here, so I chose SOLA Academy.
In my classes, I have to memorize a lot about bones, muscles, and the structure of the human body, which can be challenging, but I'm studying with my teachers and classmates in a lively and cheerful atmosphere. Right now, I’m learning how to apply bandages in practical lessons. At first, it was difficult and I struggled, but with practice, I’ve become more skilled at it.
In three years, I want to work hard towards my goal of becoming a judo therapist.
GRADUATES

Emergency Medical Technology

Emergency Medical Technology
Fire Department
you can persevere through any challenges.

Currently, I work at the Nakagusuku North Nakagusuku Fire Station. My duties include vehicle inspections, accompanying ambulances, and training. I'm fulfilled because I'm always learning something new. I believe it's important to set personal goals and put in steady effort for both the emergency medical technician exam and the civil service exam.





Emergency Medical Technology

Emergency Medical Technology
Fire Department
and experience gained in the field leads to growth.

That was the turning point for me.





Emergency Medical Technology

Emergency Medical Technology
the rescue circle and volunteer work.
In class, everything was new to me, and it was challenging to keep up, so I joined the rescue circle to acquire more knowledge and skills. Through volunteer activities, I was able to apply what I learned in class to real-life situations. As I continue my career, I want to promote the role of emergency medical technicians and engage in activities that provide accessible healthcare to underserved areas." (As of September 2019)

Emergency Medical Technology

Emergency Medical Technology
model for female emergency medical technicians.

Currently, I am working as an emergency medical technician in my hometown of Kumejima. Since it’s a small island, I respond daily with the emergency, firefighting, and rescue teams based on the cases we encounter. Although I still have room to improve my physical fitness, I often receive reassurance from women and children at emergency scenes, which makes me feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment in my role. Moving forward, I want to obtain a large vehicle license to operate fire trucks and become a pioneering female firefighter.





Emergency Medical Technology

Emergency Medical Technology
qualifications and build my strengths.

At SOLA, I was able to balance my studies in emergency medicine and preparation for the civil service exam, allowing me to pass on my first attempt. Currently, I ride on the fire truck as a team member, participating in firefighting and rescue activities. Starting in April, I will also be working as an emergency medical technician on an ambulance. There is a lot to learn, which can be challenging, but since it’s a job that helps people, I often receive gratitude, making it very rewarding. I am working hard every day to become a trusted and kind firefighter as soon as possible.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
clinical engineering technologist.

Currently, I primarily handle dialysis, endoscopy, and clinical engineering tasks such as managing equipment and checking ventilators during ward rounds. There are still many challenges and things I don’t understand, and I often rely on my seniors. However, I have started to feel a sense of confidence and fulfillment in what I can now accomplish. As I will be starting new tasks, I want to continue growing every day.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
in respiratory care.


Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
the environment that allows even graduates to find employment is appealing.
After much deliberation, I decided to enroll, taking into account my desire to contribute to society through working in healthcare, my children’s future, and the realities of finding a job after turning 30.
The classes are beneficial, covering both medical and engineering topics. It’s especially enjoyable to deepen my understanding of concepts I already knew from my previous job when I learn the underlying theories. Each day brings new discoveries and surprises, and I’m grateful that I can continue to learn even after turning 30.
Once I become a clinical engineering technologist, I want to contribute to society in the medical field as much as I can. Additionally, I hope to be a parent who inspires my children to set goals by showing them my commitment to learning and working hard.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
I originally wanted to work in the medical field in some capacity. At that time, I learned that the Clinical Engineering program was being established at SOLA, and I decided to apply. I thought that having the first Clinical Engineering program in Okinawa would lead to increased demand in the future, so I chose SOLA.
Q2. Skills Acquired and Personal Growth in the Clinical Engineering Program
The most significant skill I developed was the habit of studying. As a specialized school for clinical engineering technologists, I remember finding the various subjects I learned to be quite challenging, as many were new to me. However, thanks to the support of my classmates and instructors, I developed a study habit I had never had before. I still study during my days off and between work.
Q3. Job Satisfaction and Challenges, and Future Goals
I find my work very rewarding. Since I had no prior work experience, everything is new to me, and every day is a continuous learning experience. The clinical engineering license is merely the minimum requirement to work in a hospital; I believe there is much more to learn after starting work. Since I joined a manufacturer that creates medical devices rather than working in a clinical setting, I have a lot to learn about our own equipment as well as that of other companies.
Q4. Advice for Future Students (High School Students and Current Students)
In today’s world, there are many professions and choices, which can understandably be overwhelming. I believe it’s okay to make mistakes multiple times. It’s also fine to work in a job unrelated to the field you entered. If you find what you want to do after enrolling, you should pursue that direction.
Q5. What I Hope for SOLA (Suggestions for the Future)
I’m not sure if it exists now, but I think having a scholarship program would further motivate students. There are many new graduates as well as those with families, and I believe that by supporting each other, the school can continue to improve.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
International Medical Center
I chose SOLA because it was the first clinical engineering technologist training school in Okinawa, and I was interested in the profession and the kind of studies involved. I believed that studying for three years at SOLA while working part-time would be more financially viable than pursuing qualifications at a school outside the prefecture.
Q2. Skills and Growth in the Clinical Engineering Program
In my first year, I struggled to understand the material, but as I progressed, I gained clarity and understanding. Particularly after hospital internships, I realized the importance of studying diligently, which has been crucial in my work.
Q3. Benefits of Transferring to University
At SOLA, I completed a graduation thesis, but at university, I could engage more deeply in research related to my interests. I also learned about many electrical circuits and principles in the electrical labs that I hadn’t encountered at SOLA. Struggling with weekly reports in electrical and electronic practices helped me prepare for the ME1 qualification exam.
Q4. Challenges and Rewards of Current Job; Future Goals
Every day is challenging as I learn my duties while continuing to study. I feel a sense of accomplishment when my efforts lead to positive outcomes for patients, such as a doctor reporting recovery or patients expressing relief. My goal is to study more and become a trusted technologist in any field I rotate through.
Q5. Advice for Students (High School and Current Students)
I think it’s important not to force yourself to find your interests. By studying a wide range of subjects, you keep your options open, and it’s valuable to try things even if you’re not initially interested. Keep pushing forward!
Q6. Expectations for SOLA
It would be interesting if we could visit various hospitals during our training. This would help in considering job opportunities and forming a better image of what working in the field is like.
If you need any adjustments or further details, feel free to ask!

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
I chose SOLA because it was the first program opened in Okinawa, and during the open campus visit, I noticed the abundance of medical equipment.
Q2. What I have learned and how I have grown in the Clinical Engineering Technologist program.
I feel that I have developed not only academically but also in my communication skills and concentration.
Q3. What is rewarding and challenging about your current job? What are your future goals?
Initially, I struggled with the gap between my expectations as a student and the reality, learning a wide range of tasks, and adapting to a new living environment. Currently, I am involved in new tasks like patient interviews, punctures, and night dialysis services, and I am gradually finding fulfillment in my work. In the future, I want to strengthen my technical skills in punctures and circuit replacements.
Q4. Advice for future paths (high school students and current students)
Studying in groups of two or three rather than alone can help you identify areas where you need more understanding, like recognizing, “I don’t really grasp this part.”
Q5. What I hope for from SOLA (what I want in the future, etc.)
I hope for an environment that allows students to challenge themselves to obtain various qualifications while still in school.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
your dreams can come true.
I found the field of electrical engineering particularly difficult, but with the support of my teachers and my own efforts, I managed to pass the "Second Class ME Technical Proficiency Examination." Through this examination, I learned the importance of tackling my weaknesses. While I can’t say I’ve fully overcome them, I have become someone who can make progress.
In the medical field, we have a mission to provide high-quality healthcare by collaborating with other professions. I want to utilize the communication skills I developed through group studies and school festivals to listen to others and understand their perspectives, always striving to improve in my work. One day, I hope to work as part of an overseas cooperation team.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
my parents' burden while achieving my dreams.
I had no background in engineering, so it was challenging to understand the classes at first. There were subjects I had studied in high school, and I sometimes regret not studying more diligently back then.
Moving forward, I will continue to work hard in my studies and prioritize communication and building trust with doctors and nurses. I aim to become a Clinical Engineering Technologist who can think for myself and take action on what needs to be done.

Clinical Engineering

Clinical Engineering
With thorough guidance and support from friends, you can get through it.
Having studied humanities in high school and university, I had a fear of science subjects. The mathematics and physics classes were challenging, and there were times I felt I might give up. However, with the dedicated support of my teachers and the help of classmates who share the same goals, I have managed to keep going.
My ideal is to have knowledge comparable to that of doctors in my assigned areas and to be a Clinical Engineering Technologist trusted by both colleagues and patients.

Therapist Course

Therapist Course
in a fulfilling environment.

Therapist Course

Therapist Course
from my classmates make challenging classes feel manageable.

Therapist Course

Therapist Course
classmates were a great support.
In the theoretical classes, it was challenging to memorize the names of bones and muscles. In the practical sessions, I learned judo techniques and methods for applying bandages and taping. I was able to persevere for three years because my teachers and classmates were a great support.
We studied together, cooperating toward the goal of obtaining our qualifications. I believe that what I learned at SOLA will definitely be useful in my professional life. Furthermore, I want to continue learning techniques so that I can help as many patients as possible regain their health and smile.

Therapist Course

Therapist Course
Peace Home Care Station
I became interested in becoming a judo therapist and learned that SOLA had established a new judo therapy program. I decided to enroll as one of the first students, thinking it would be a great opportunity to study in a new facility.
Q2. Skills Acquired and Personal Growth in the Judo Therapy Program
The classes were challenging, but I was able to learn a lot, including foundational and advanced knowledge, manual therapy, thermotherapy, and exercise therapy, all aimed at obtaining national qualifications and being useful in clinical settings. The practical sessions were especially hands-on, allowing me to apply what I learned in real-world situations. Additionally, I feel that my communication skills improved through volunteering.
Q3. Job Satisfaction and Challenges, and Future Goals
I particularly feel a sense of fulfillment when I see patients smile after treatment. I strive to think from the patient’s perspective and communicate in an easily understandable way. Moving forward, I want to gain more experience and become a judo therapist trusted by even more patients.
Q4. Advice for Future Students (High School Students and Current Students)
During my job search, I visited 4 to 5 companies. Since the atmosphere varies from one company to another, I believe it’s beneficial to explore many options. I chose a company where I felt I could find fulfillment in my work.
Q5. What I Hope for SOLA (Suggestions for the Future)
I hope that SOLA will continue to maintain an open environment that makes it easy for alumni to visit.

Health Department

Health Department
lifespan of many people as a trainer.

Now that I’m working as a trainer, I realize how important it is to have the ability to teach and apply what I’ve learned. Even if you have knowledge, it won’t be useful in the field unless you can output it. My experience as a trainer has made me appreciate the importance of practical lessons even more.
In the future, I want to continue working as a trainer, utilizing what I learned at Okinawa Medical College to extend the healthy lifespan of as many people as possible. (As of February 2023)

Health Department

Health Department
trainer for top athletes.

Currently, my job involves working on overall muscle relaxation, and I am now being entrusted with adjustments, which means I will be responsible for aligning bones. In my company, about 70% of our clients are foreigners. As I take on more responsibilities with foreign clients in the future, I will do my best.
(As of January 2023)

Health Department

Health Department
to find what you truly love.
From the beginning, I wanted to do one-on-one personal training, so I sought employment with a company that would allow me to do that. Currently, I support customers with their training and provide dietary advice. Right after joining, I focused on memorizing the basic training menus. Afterward, I conducted model sessions, and starting from the fourth month, I began taking on customers. I work every day with the aim of making them happy. Since this is something I love, I enjoy coming to work. I believe that if you're not genuinely interested, you won't be able to continue, so I encourage everyone to try various experiences and find what you truly love.





Health Department

Health Department
Medical, and Welfare Corporation
I've always loved sports and was a member of the girls' volleyball team in middle school. An external coach who was a real trainer taught us, and their professional coaching methods and care inspired me to want to guide and care for others through sports. I enrolled in a sports program at Nishi-Hara High School, where I met many others with similar goals. I became interested in SOLA from my first year because I heard great things about it. I was attracted to this department because it offers courses that, while seemingly unrelated to sports, actually connect back to it.
Q2. Why did you choose SOLA?
I chose SOLA after being impressed by the Summer Festa event. I was amazed that the Beauty and Sports departments were held in the same building. Being a girl, I was also interested in beauty, which intrigued me further. The instructors had many qualifications, and the location was convenient, making SOLA the right choice for me.
Q3. What have you gained or how have you grown at SOLA?
break.Before entering vocational school, I hadn't taken many certification exams. However, at SOLA, I studied a lot to obtain qualifications. I found it enjoyable to learn about things I was interested in, and I developed a habit of delving deeper into what I didn't understand. Even now, I continue to thoroughly research things I'm unsure about.
Q4. What are the benefits of choosing SOLA?
One benefit is that the teachers are very supportive and approachable. They are easy to consult about studies, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and personal life, offering heartfelt advice. Even five years after graduation, my career advisor still checks in on me, which my friends say is uncommon in other schools. Many of my friends who moved out of Okinawa want to visit SOLA when they return, reflecting how fortunate we are to have such supportive teachers. Another benefit is the numerous school events and festivals, which made my school life fulfilling. For example, I took a camp instructor certification course and stayed on a remote island for several nights, experiencing unique training not offered at other schools. Studying alongside others who shared similar goals fostered a competitive yet collaborative environment.
Q5. What are your future goals?
Previously, I worked at a sports facility, instructing people who were already interested in exercise. Now, I often approach those who aren't interested in sports. In the future, I want to engage as many people as possible and share the joy of exercise and the benefits of physical activity.
Q6. Advice for high school students struggling with their career path?
I had clear goals, which made it easier for me to decide my path. For those still unsure, I suggest gathering information and learning about various options. This can help clarify what you want to do. If there's anything you're even slightly interested in, don't worry about whether you can do it or not—just try it out. This approach might lead you to discover your true passions more easily.

Health Department

Health Department
My next dream is to provide exercise guidance at schools.
During my internship while job hunting, I observed the staff interacting with patients with smiles, and I knew I wanted to work at Rokuto. I’ve been employed there for a year now, primarily focusing on exercise guidance for seniors and students, as well as creating exercise menus. Initially, I had my senior review my work, but now I manage tasks independently.
When patients express their gratitude, saying things like, "Thanks to you, I can walk again," I truly feel a sense of fulfillment. My goal is to become a reliable trainer as soon as possible and to provide exercise guidance in schools. (As of March 2017)





Health Department

Health Department
for employment. It's all good things!

At SOLA, I set a goal to earn many qualifications for my future, and I studied hard, successfully obtaining numerous certifications. It was also wonderful to meet great friends along the way.
After graduating, I started working at RIZAP, where my main responsibilities include managing training sessions, overseeing guest (client) nutrition, responding to emails, and managing schedules. While it can be challenging at times, hearing guests say, "Thank you, I'm starting to see the results from my training," brings me great fulfillment. I will continue to work hard to grow and become a trainer who receives recognition within the company.



