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What have you been up to since graduating from ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ?

At ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, I majored in biology with a focus in ecology, evolution, and marine biology, and I completed the minor requirements for both history and Japanese. During my senior year, I specifically sought out post-graduation opportunities where I could combine my interests in language and science, using my Japanese as much as possible while gaining additional research experience. Since June, I have been working as a research intern studying the evolution of coral reef fish at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) in Okinawa, Japan. As OIST is a very international university, I often act as a translator between American members of my lab, local Okinawan people, and other scientists, while also reviewing scientific literature in Japanese. I plan to continue my internship here through next summer before transitioning into a PhD program in coral biology and coral reef ecology.

Why Japanese studies?

I had a lot of exposure to Japanese language and culture during my childhood. My dad worked for All Nippon Airways for many years, so I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit various places around Japan while growing up. Those experiences, combined with hosting a visiting student from Japan for two years, laid a strong foundation for my interest in studying the language. I began taking Japanese classes through a program offered at my high school in ninth grade, and by graduation, I was committed to continuing my studies in college. Although I had already planned to take Japanese courses at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, I was further motivated by the encouragement of excellent professors and the incredible camaraderie of the Japanese Student Association.

I became close friends with classmates and locals alike while spending a semester abroad at Dōshisha University in Kyōto during the spring of my junior year. Additionally, being able to communicate in Japanese has given me a much deeper appreciation for the nation’s unique culture and history, which in turn has influenced the way I approach research, writing, and more.

Are there any classes, professors, or experiences that had a lasting impact on you?

Aridome Sensei and Morita Sensei were my two primary Japanese instructors at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ. I can’t thank them enough for their patience, kindness, and mentorship throughout my language studies. Their dedication to my success, as well as to that of their other students, made them incredible professors and friends, both inside and outside the classroom.

Spending a semester studying abroad in Kyōto was also extremely pivotal in my development as a Japanese language student. The classes and faculty of the Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies (KCJS) program at Dōshisha University improved my language skills dramatically in just a few months. Outside of class, I spent each day exploring the thousands of temples and shrines throughout the ancient capital, striking up conversations with locals in passing, at restaurants, and while riding public transit. From taking in a mountaintop view of Arashiyama’s bamboo forests with an elderly hiker to exploring Nara’s plum trees in full bloom with a Kyōto-based soba chef, I will never forget the adventures of that semester.

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates interested in your field?

While at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, involve yourself with the Japanese Student Association as much as possible by attending weekly language table dinners, social gatherings, and program events like karaoke nights, mochi-making, and tea ceremony club meetings (Sadō). Plan a semester abroad in Kyōto or elsewhere in Japan to expand your horizons, strengthen your language skills, and build friendships with new people.

The study of foreign languages, and Japanese specifically, has the potential to open many doors that may not be obvious before finishing undergrad. If you have strong interests in biology or other areas, seek out opportunities to pair language with those fields of study. Consult with your professors and peers. Those opportunities will present themselves, either in the States, in Japan, or elsewhere.

What have you been up to since graduating from ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ?

Funny you should ask how the Japanese department at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ has shaped me, because I’m currently living in Tokyo! Right after ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ, I worked as a dermatology medical assistant in my hometown for six months to gain clinical experience. Since then, I’ve been studying full-time at a Japanese language school in Tokyo. Next month, I’ll begin my master’s research at Waseda University’s School of Advanced Science and Engineering in the Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience as a MEXT scholar. The Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will support my studies with a monthly stipend for the next two and a half years. Looking ahead, I’m considering returning to the US for medical school or possibly extending my scholarship to pursue a PhD in neuroscience. The possibilities are endless and exciting!

Why Japanese studies?

As a QuestBridge student from a small town in Tennessee, I never imagined I’d travel beyond my state, let alone across the world. But ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ gave me the chance to study abroad in Kyoto during my junior year, and I quickly fell in love with Japan: its rich culture and history, the convenience of daily life, the stunning landscapes, and, even with my fish allergy, the delicious food. I loved it so much that I returned the following summer to work in a Tokyo University lab, where I designed an algorithm to track circadian rhythms using a specialized wristwatch. Later, I presented that research in Singapore. Around that time, thanks to an information session the Japanese department shared, I learned about the MEXT scholarship. The rest is history.

Are there any classes, professors, or experiences that had a lasting impact on you?

It might be cheating, but I want to say all of them. My experience with the Japanese department was overwhelmingly positive, especially with Aridome Sensei and Selinger Sensei. Aridome Sensei taught me during two of my hardest times at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ: my first year (the “Covid year,” when everything was on Zoom) and again during the fall of my senior year, when I was recovering from a spinal cord injury (all good now!). His kindness, energy, and passion for teaching were a steady source of much-needed support. The same is true of Selinger Sensei, whose empathy and tireless dedication to her students are unmatched. Anytime I felt unmotivated, I would stop and think, “What would Selinger Sensei do...?” and that was always enough to get me to open my laptop again.

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates interested in your field?

Japanese can be hard, and that’s okay. I always joke that, to me, Japanese is harder than neuroscience, and I still stand by it! Learning the language requires patience and persistence. Progress comes in small daily steps, but the reward is worth it. If I could go back, I’d take the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test earlier, just to get a clearer sense of my strengths and weaknesses along the way. Japanese can also complement any major. I never expected my neuroscience major and Japanese minor to connect, but here I am, a neuroscience researcher in Japan. You never know where the overlap might take you.

What role did the Japanese program play in your ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ experience?

I first learned about the Japanese program at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ when I visited for prospective student weekend during my senior year of high school. I talked to Professor Aridome during the academic fair and to my surprise he still remembered me six months later when I arrived at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ. I was really impressed—it showed me how much Professor Aridome and the program care about their students. The Japanese program was like a family to me and was an essential part of my ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ experience.

I started taking Japanese my first year simply because I wanted to learn a third language and I love Japanese anime. Although the first two years of Japanese met early in the morning, I was always excited for class because both Professor Aridome and Professor Selinger made class really fun. The classes were lively and energetic thanks to them. As a science and math major, I would say that taking a language is like taking a break from the sciences and enjoying another aspect of the liberal arts environment at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ. The Japanese program also offered other courses in history, literature, and religion. During my third year I took a course called Samurai in History, Literature, and Film which was eye-opening and gave me greater insight into Japanese society.

The Japanese program also offered many activities to help students bond with one another. The most important one was the language table which was a great opportunity to practice Japanese language with friends and professors. There were other fun activities throughout the year such as karaoke parties, tea ceremony demonstrations, and sushi parties. I was able to experience aspects of Japanese cultures even though I was not in Japan. They were also great opportunities for me to develop relationships with my classmates who later became some of my closest friends.

What role did the Japanese program play in your ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ experience?

Even though I grew up with a Japanese grandmother, I had never thought about studying Japanese language or culture when I initially arrived at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ. My first semester freshman year, however, I had one more spot to fill so I chose a Japanese history course. I can’t begin to explain how much that first Asian studies course changed my life and how happy I am that it did! That Japanese history course introduced me to the wonderful Asian studies department and led me to my first Japanese language class. From my very first day of Japanese to the day I graduated, the professors and members of the Japanese language program felt like my family at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ. This program gave me the chance to participate in Japanese language tables, attend fun department events, teach Japanese to local schoolchildren, and work with some of the most encouraging and enthusiastic professors on campus.

My time at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ was mainly devoted towards completing my two majors (chemistry and Asian studies) and competing as a member of the swim team. As a double major and an athlete I was touched by how much the Japanese language professors took an active interest in my life outside of the Asian studies department. They attended home swim meets, posted our championship results on the Japanese program Facebook page, and frequently asked about my chemistry research. My senior year I also was able to carry out research for an advanced independent study with Professor Christmas thanks to the unique and incredible opportunity to access a Japan Times database of digitized newspapers dating back hundreds of years. With these primary sources and Professor Christmas’ mentoring, my research culminated in an environmental history paper investigating the tuna fishing industry as a tool for pre- and post-World War II Japanese expansionism.

My Japanese professors gave me crucial support and advice when I applied to the JET program and helped me develop the language skills to explore the country and make lasting friendships during my time in Japan. In college they welcomed me into a community that felt like family and after graduating they gave me the chance to see the world. I am filled with gratitude and happiness every time I reflect on that moment freshman year when I fell in love with Asian studies at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ.

Why did you decide to study Japanese language at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ?

I started taking Japanese in my junior year because I wanted to do something new and different and it developed into something that changed my life. After a year of Japanese, I received an opportunity to travel to Tokyo with Japanese professors and other students. Although it was only a two-week trip it was packed with intellectual stimulation and fun. Nothing can compare to the experience of going to a museum with an expert in that field!

Through this trip I was introduced to kanpō, which is traditional Chinese medicine. I plan on incorporating what I have learned as I pursue a degree in pharmacy and will hopefully revisit Japan after studying more.

What was the most important thing you gained from studying Japanese?

When I first arrived at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ I had no idea what I wanted to study. Everything appeared interesting and I found it difficult to decide. However, after an auspicious encounter at a college house sushi event where I was struck by Professor Hiroo Aridome’s kind and encouraging disposition, I decided to give Japanese language a try. Despite the early hour, each day of Japanese class was fascinating and I formed lasting friendships with my classmates in the incredibly energizing and collaborative environment.

Soon, I was encouraged to volunteer with Oshietai, a team of students who teaches Japanese language classes once a week at a local elementary school. After studying abroad my junior spring in Hikone, Japan and having an opportunity to reconnect with my family roots, my interest in Asian studies became more profound and what I intended to be minor grew into a double major. That summer I traveled to Hiroshima and used my newly acquired language skills to research a post-WWII children's art exchange between Hiroshima and Santa Fe, New Mexico. My research consisted of tracking down and interviewing individuals (in Japanese) who participated in the exchange as schoolchildren and I also had the opportunity to speak with several atomic bomb survivors. Upon returning to ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ my senior year, I applied the knowledge and stories gained through these interactions as co-curator of an exhibition at the ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ Museum of Art entitled “Perspectives from Postwar Hiroshima: Chuzo Tamotzu, Children’s Drawings, and the Art of Resolution,” which was briefly featured in the New York Times.

After graduating as a neuroscience and Asian studies double-major, I have returned to Hiroshima as a Fulbright fellow in order to conduct genetics research at the Radiation Effects Research Foundation, which studies lasting health implications of the atomic bombings in Japan for survivors and their descendants. It feels incredible to have an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills that I gained at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ towards a personally meaningful and intellectually challenging cause and I am deeply grateful for the selfless dedication of my Asian studies and neuroscience professors for making it possible.

Despite pursuing two summers of labwork and an honors project in neuroscience, I never once felt pressured to choose between my dual courses of study. On the contrary, Professors Jayanthi Selinger, Hiroo Aridome, and Sakura Christmas demonstrated flexibility and understanding as they selflessly encouraged my pursuit of neuroscience, while simultaneously fostering in me a deep sense of curiosity that has allowed me to connect my multiple interests.