Integrative Narrative
I chose to become a Japanese Language and Culture major because of my genuine love for the Japanese people and their hospitality. . I have gained so much from CSUMB’s Japanese program. My experience working on the capstone research project, studying abroad and service learning has been an overall valuable experience.
I transferred to CSUMB in 2014 and upon my arrival to class, I was immediately embraced by the Japanese language department professors. It had been a while since I had taken any Japanese classes, so I decided to enroll in a lower and upper division Japanese language course. Taking these classes simultaneously improved my level of understanding so that I could communicate effectively in the three modes of communication and in a culturally appropriate manner (MLO 1). In addition, I was able to deepen my level of understanding of Japanese culture by enrolling in Dr. Takahashi’s courses.
During my second year, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Japan. I was able to actively immerse myself in a authentic Japanese and linguistic environment (MLO5). Spending a year at Dokkyo University allowed me to be able to focus solely on improving my language skills. In my second semester, I joined a tennis circle which helped me practice everyday casual Japanese the way natives speak. My speaking and listening skills increased as a result of being engaged in and out of the classroom and I made genuine, long-lasting friendships.
Returning from my year abroad, I enrolled in Service Learning. Through this course I was able to participate in multilingual and multicultural communities. Teaching elementary students Japanese language and culture, we were able to expose them to a culture that is different than their own. I had an amazing time building relationships with my students and my fellow group mates. Service learning also strengthened my patience, my ability to adapt to varying situations, my critical thinking skills and my teaching techniques.
The Japanese program has a strong belief in not only learning about your target language’s culture, but also learning about multiple cultures. Therefore I enrolled in my Secondary Culture class (MLO3). Taking this class has allowed me as a language major to become more globally competent. I was able to develop a more well rounded view of the world by being able to compare my American culture with the Japanese and MesoAmericans.
Furthermore, this capstone project has helped me develop 21st century skills. By using the three modes of communication in my target language, collaborating with my partner on this capstone project I was able to learn presentational research and technological skills (MLO4).
Studying at CSUMB and abroad has provided me with a great education. One that was challenging, rewarding and unique.I hope to further my education and become a Manager or Director of the International Programs Department in the U.S. or abroad.
I transferred to CSUMB in 2014 and upon my arrival to class, I was immediately embraced by the Japanese language department professors. It had been a while since I had taken any Japanese classes, so I decided to enroll in a lower and upper division Japanese language course. Taking these classes simultaneously improved my level of understanding so that I could communicate effectively in the three modes of communication and in a culturally appropriate manner (MLO 1). In addition, I was able to deepen my level of understanding of Japanese culture by enrolling in Dr. Takahashi’s courses.
During my second year, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Japan. I was able to actively immerse myself in a authentic Japanese and linguistic environment (MLO5). Spending a year at Dokkyo University allowed me to be able to focus solely on improving my language skills. In my second semester, I joined a tennis circle which helped me practice everyday casual Japanese the way natives speak. My speaking and listening skills increased as a result of being engaged in and out of the classroom and I made genuine, long-lasting friendships.
Returning from my year abroad, I enrolled in Service Learning. Through this course I was able to participate in multilingual and multicultural communities. Teaching elementary students Japanese language and culture, we were able to expose them to a culture that is different than their own. I had an amazing time building relationships with my students and my fellow group mates. Service learning also strengthened my patience, my ability to adapt to varying situations, my critical thinking skills and my teaching techniques.
The Japanese program has a strong belief in not only learning about your target language’s culture, but also learning about multiple cultures. Therefore I enrolled in my Secondary Culture class (MLO3). Taking this class has allowed me as a language major to become more globally competent. I was able to develop a more well rounded view of the world by being able to compare my American culture with the Japanese and MesoAmericans.
Furthermore, this capstone project has helped me develop 21st century skills. By using the three modes of communication in my target language, collaborating with my partner on this capstone project I was able to learn presentational research and technological skills (MLO4).
Studying at CSUMB and abroad has provided me with a great education. One that was challenging, rewarding and unique.I hope to further my education and become a Manager or Director of the International Programs Department in the U.S. or abroad.