こんにちは! konnichiwa! Hello! My name is Kathryn, and I am twenty-three years old. I am from Seattle, Washington, and I am a senior at Gonzaga University studying English Creative Writing and East Asian studies. I decided to take another semester of college before graduating to study abroad in Japan at Akita International University. I am so happy I did so, for Japan is beyond my expectations!
There are many reasons why I wanted to study here. Since I was a little girl, I was interested in the Japanese language and culture. It was so different from everything else that surrounded me. My favorite movies, Spirited Away and Kiki’s Delivery Service, were made by the legendary Japanese animator, Hayao Miyazaki. All of his movies contained Japanese scenery and architecture, as well as themes of traditional Japanese myths and beliefs, inspiring me to write my own stories.
I started learning the Japanese language when I entered high school and continued ever since. Studying in Japan will allow me to understand the language better and eventually speak it. I am eager to explore Japan, meet new people, and just have fun. Come along to hear more about my adventures!
Want to know more about how you can study or intern abroad when you are a college student? The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by the Institute of International Education (IIE). Learn more about the scholarship by clicking here!
