Statement of Purpose
I have taken an interest in other cultures since a young age, particularly Japan. During my middle school years, I was a connoisseur of Studio Ghibli films, and a lover of Japanese classic rock artists such as Bump of Chicken or Remioramen. I was captivated by the way Japanese lyrics so sincerely captured captured the human soul, and authentically portrayed Japanese cultural ideology through its symbolism and meaning. I set out to learn the language myself, despite having no opportunities to interact with Asian culture and resources for learning Asian languages being all but obsolete in my small suburban town. Like the line from Bump of Chicken’s famous song, Sailing Day, “I am a foolish dreamer who hoists the sails without waiting for dawn”.
Self-motivation was an integral part of my Japanese learning, and I taught myself basic Japanese using textbooks and online classes. I began researching local exchange programs, and during my first year of high school discovered Rotary International. With determination, I spent the next two years studying Japanese in online classes and improving my academic standing. As a Junior I was accepted into the program and sent Kanagawa prefecture for one year.
During my time as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student I learned what it meant to be a representative of my country--something Rotary referred to as a “Goodwill Ambassador.” I found a passion for learning about the intricacies of Japanese culture, including family structure and modern tradition, as well as a joy in spreading knowledge of my own culture and resolving misunderstandings and stereotypes. I participated in a variety of clubs in Japan including traditional flower arrangement or Kadou, the Japanese Red Cross, UNESCO, and hip-hop dance. Through club activities I was able to interact with a vast variety of people, from UNESCO officials to kimono-wearing professional flower arrangers, and develop an understanding and appreciation for the diversity of the human experience. That experience became the first step in my pursuit of a career in cultural engagement and reflection in the field of international relations.
I want to undertake an internship in Japan to heighten my language abilities and continue learning and interacting with Japanese culture at a professional level. I believe that my self-motivation, independence, and passion for Japanese language and culture makes me an ideal candidate for any position, and will aid me in achieving my goals to make the most out of my internship experience and build the tools and foundation I will need to be successful as a part of the international workforce, where I hope to become a bridge between American and Japanese culture.
