---

In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The opportunities and resources at hand to learn the language are second to none.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
Contact us anytime and ask as many questions you may have. Even if you seem a bit skeptical about the language learning and its challenges, I would say take a shot at it. I had no prior experience with Japanese before coming to K and now I’m able to help answer any questions for those who are in similar shoes I was in at the time.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
The connections you make are forever. I’ve met so many amazing people, especially being a student athlete for the football team. Being able to study and be an athlete has taught me how to be disciplined and organized while maintaining a fun life style and still being able to enjoy college. Hence, making friends and branching out among other groups of students.

What has been your favorite class at K?
Either Japanese or Digital Art. It’s hard to choose because Japanese is so much fun to learn, but being an art major always pulls at me and my artistic skills! It’s so much fun being able to bounce between classes and always have a fun time and express myself through the classes.

How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I have tried many different types of art and Japanese style classes and have loved all of them. My freshmen year I took Calculus I and II (maybe by mistake lol) but it helped me to stay disciplined and stay on track to a healthy learning habit over the years. I’ve been open to trying to new classes and it’s been a great time.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I have been a part of the Football team, along with volunteer work for the community, had an internship for Graphic Design, helping with the Japanese department, and plan to help out even more my senior year! I’m excited to see what else I can do, maybe even be a Teacher Assistant or help with more events. Especially since right now I am studying abroad in Japan and have learned more than I could imagine already.

What is your SIP?
I am planning to do a combination of both an Art and Japanese style SIP. In the fall I will be researching and, in the winter, I will execute my SIP and complete it by the end of that term! I am beyond excited after everything I’ve experienced on this study abroad trip!

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I want to take part in continuing my Japanese studies while keeping pace with my art. I want to work as a professional artist and work my way up to becoming a graphic designer for The Pokémon Company International between America and Japan. It will take time, but I am more than motivated.

What is a random fun fact about you?
I am a very big Pokémon and Hunter x Hunter fan and love to play Pokémon in Japanese and read Hunter x Hunter in Japanese, so if you ever want to talk to me about those, I am always open to it!