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In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The close knit community allows for stronger connections between students and professors.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
I think reaching out to those who are juniors, seniors, or even the professors is most beneficial. In the beginning I felt very lost and concerned for myself and my status within the class, but once I began to talk with the upperclassmen I realized they also had the same concerns starting where I was. The professors are also amazing and very helpful with explaining classes.

What is something you know now that you wish you could tell your first-year self?
Try everything you think you would want to do. Even if it’s something that only somewhat grabbed your attention, try it, and see how it turns out. College is the time to figure out who you are and who you want to be, and staying in a small bubble will not allow you to flourish the way you can.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
Opening up and making connections is one of the most valuable and rewarding things I have learned at K. I was very closed off during my high school years which led to opportunities to close for me. Since coming to K I have taken more risks, and made great connections through friendships and academics. It is something I will take with me after graduating.

What has been your favorite class at K? 
My favorite class so far has been Analog Photography. I chose to minor in Studio Art to continue my hobby of drawing, and fell in love with photography. Analog Photography was definitely a difficult class, but so rewarding and I would recommend to those that are not really into art and photography specifically.

How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth?
From the beginning of freshman year, I have been so focused on my major requirements that I have only now begun to take advantage of this open curriculum. I took a Taiko class, Japanese drums, and while I do focus on Japan for my major- I do not have much of an interest in music itself. I am grateful that it was offered because I wouldn’t experienced it otherwise.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I have participated in being a President Student Ambassador. I have gained a better understanding of networking and connected with people I did not realize were connected to K somehow. As well as learned more about K College through opportunities provided with this program.

What is your SIP?
My SIP is Experiences of English as a Foreign Language Teachers in Japan. I will interview English Teachers, and find the common ground of what brought them to Japan, and if they participated in a program known as the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme, otherwise known as the JET Program. I will see if there is any differences between those that participated in the program, and those that have not.

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I aspire to become a Teacher of the English Language in Japan. I hope to apply to the JET Program to locate schools in Japan in need of these teachers.

What is a random fun fact about you?
One random fact is my favorite hobby is dancing, and I am the director of the dance group, Frelon Dance Company, on campus. Hosting showcases every Fall and Spring term, open to those who have no dance experience and to those that have danced their whole life, creating a safe space for those interested in performances.