1. Home Country
I was born and raised in Ewa Beach on the island of O‘ahu in the state of Hawai‘i. I currently attend the University of Hawai‘i and am a fourth year Business Administration major focusing on Marketing, Management, and International Business. I have been dancing hula since the age of 5, therefore it has truly become one of my greatest passions. Hula is one of the ways I have developed confidence in myself as it has helped me relate to many, many individuals no matter their background or situation. I also love hiking, volunteering, going to the beach, and being outdoors in nature. I love animals, especially dogs, therefore you can usually find me playing with my dogs Chibi and Koa. I am an only child but they are like my siblings!
2. The reason why I thought I would come to Japan/The reason why I have an interest in Japan
I am very fortunate to live in Hawai‘i where I embrace the diversity of not only myself but those around me. I am half Chinese, a quarter Japanese, and a quarter German and Irish. My grandmother is of Japanese descent while my grandfather is of German and Irish descent. Because my grandparents had passed away before I was born, I was unable to meet them. However, I am grateful to them and look up to them as my role models every day. They married during a difficult period in Japan and America’s relationship, however, their courage, strength, and persistence is what I strive to live in my daily life.
3. About my work
My interest in Japanese culture started when I was in middle school. I watched morning cartoons like Moomin and Tama and Friends. I also began developing a liking to simple manga like Cardcaptor Sakura and Kamisama Karin. At the start of high school, I began formal Japanese language studies upon my acceptance to Punahou School. It is here where I truly began to love learning about the history and culture of Japan. From cooking show presentations, attending a tea ceremony, and even being able to wear a traditional kimono upon my graduation from the Japanese language program, I couldn’t help but feel connected to my grandparents.
4. My Impression of Ehime
After I graduated high school, I visited Japan for the first time. I was so amazed by the beauty, efficiency, and effortless flow of the daily lifestyle of the Japanese people. I experienced many places such as Nara, Kyoto, and of course various cities in Tokyo. At the start of the trip and towards the end, I was fortunate to visit my grandparents’ grave site atop a beautiful hill in Yokohama. My first visit to Japan helped me understand the importance of not only being able to experience where my part of my identity belongs, but also being able to continue my growth and understanding in seeing different points of view.
5. Anything Else
My time as intern in Ehime has been challenging yet very fun and rewarding. This was my first time away from home, so it was difficult adapting to such a different lifestyle. I’m so grateful for the experiences I’ve had to share my love for hula, my love for Hawai’i, and most importantly, the spirit of aloha. It brings me true joy and happiness to see the smiles of those I meet at schools, events, and seminars. Through this internship, I’ve developed my interpersonal skills and have furthered my Japanese language skills in all areas of reading, writing, and speaking. I have struggled with my speaking ability since I began enrolling in Japanese language courses, therefore, this opportunity has encouraged me to use Japanese as much as possible in a friendly and meaningful context. The people of EPIC and Ehime have been so kind and have made me feel at home during my short stay in Matsuyama.
6.
The greatest aspect of this internship shows that culture provides no limitation to creating a bond between individuals. Whether I am dressed in aloha attire or working clothes, my relationship with others has grown from the experiences we’ve shared together. If I’ve learned one important thing from this internship, it is to not be afraid to do things that scare you. In order to reach your goals, you need to take small steps towards those goals. For me, it was taking this opportunity away from home to grow both professionally and personally.