Why did I choose Japanese Language and Culture as my major?
I was always interested in learning languages, but it wasn’t until after my study abroad that I realized Japan has a special place in my heart. Being an African American doesn’t necessarily connect me with my African roots and I have always wanted to speak a language that isn't English, and has a culture or a cultural food that wasn’t related to America. Through the Japanese Language and Culture major and my experiences going through this program I was heartfelt by the Japanese people. Although I am not Japanese the feature that has had the greatest effect on me has been Japanese passion.
What have I learned from this major, and what was my initial goal and how that has changed?
When I graduate from the program I can proudly say that I am a changed man. I feel the answer to what I have learned can never completely be answered because it is such a deep question, however Japanese language and culture is intertwined with my dna and from anybody who knows me or gets to know me will be able to recognize this aura. I am able to understand the language from the writing system and all three alphabets. The language in different forms of politeness and even dialects. My initial goal was to be a professional soccer player, but now I have opened my options to translation, interpretation, advising, and even participating in the Nikkie 225. When I started this major I was always afraid of being defined by my major, but now I have realized that for me my major is a tool a key that can unlock a plethora of different pathways and my road has not been set in concrete.
What areas am I most proud of through learning in this program?/What areas do I want to develop in the future?
I am proud of this programs connections to professional networks such as JET, or MIIS. I am proud of the opportunity I got to study abroad and learning from exchange students who got to study here. I am proud of the team work aspect that is enforced in every single class, because we has humans our pack creatures and working together is what puts us at our strongest. Areas that I would like to develop in the future are using my knowledge and experience to connect people for a greater cause; something that is bigger than me. I am currently working towards passing the N2 level of the Japanese ability test [日本語能力試験]. For the purpose of professionalizing my statutes so I can use my degree at a higher level for my short term goal of working for a blue chip Japanese company. Of course skill wise being as well rounded in the language as possible is the most beneficial not just speaking or writing I believe both forms of communication is an endless education, and both forms of communication are needed to reach different kinds of people.