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In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The people! EAS is a bit small, but you get to know everyone. It’s glorious.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
You’ve heard it before but talk to people! And, I feel like it should be said for EAS, don’t be nervous to talk about your interests. I read MXTX and love Haikyuu, right alongside reading obscure books about Dairy Farming in Hokkaido, and that’s all EAS, and I’d love to hear about what you’re interested in!

What is something you know now that you wish you could tell your first-year self?
I’d say 4 years is really not a long time at all. But at the same time, you have the chance to do so much and grow as a person in so many ways.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
The more people you know, the longer it takes to walk from one place to another. But you also have the best conversations, catching up at a corner just before you go your separate ways. Take the time to do this! It’s the best way to be a part of campus life.

What has been your favorite class at K?
All of them! But shall I tell you about Early China with Dr. Frost? If you like stories, this is one of the longest there is. Also, I had a great time with the role-playing game during the last few weeks of the class.

How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
I love bragging about my first-year seminar. I was a part of Dr. Katanski’s Wheels of Change class, which explored how bicycles have been connected with social justice through history. To this day, I enjoy analyzing how streets are planned in any new city I visit, and of course spotting bike lanes. Did I mention we took a class field trip to Copenhagen, Denmark?

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I spent the summer after my sophomore year doing an Operations internship (that’s like HR, it’s internal company logistics) with SPARK Business Works in Kalamazoo and loved it. On campus I’m also a President’s Student Ambassador, and a newly minted director for the Kalamadudes.

What is your SIP?
I’m putting together a tour itinerary for imaginary visitors heading to Japan!

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I’d like to do more work in Operations and with logistics. On the other hand, though, I’d love to spend some time hopping between seasonal jobs and traveling the world… stay tuned.

What is a random fun fact about you?
I’ve been wearing red hi-tops for years and my friends call them my “protagonist shoes”