The Japanese research environment provides the opportunity for undergraduate students seeking careers in science, technology engineering and math (STEM) to enhance their mental clarity. This is especially important for those from historically underrepresented communities, e.g. African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and Native
 Americans who deal with a host of challenges and distractions. Famous Japanese swordsman, philosopher, and strategist Miyamoto Musashi, was a strong proponent of mental clarity and self-discipline for mental, physical and spiritual improvement. The concept of mental clarity, i.e. being able to focus on the task at hand without being distracted, is what Expanding Scientific Horizons founder, Wade Sisk, experienced and appreciated during his research tenure in Japan. This made such an indelible enduring impression, that he founded Expanding Scientific Horizons with the aim of extending this opportunity to other aspiring STEM professionals early in their career.