I decided to go to the University of Kentucky because it is one of the only universities on the East Coast that offers the dual major program I was looking for. There are also many Japan-related job opportunities in Lexington, Kentucky. Therefore, in the fall of 2017, I started my degree at UK with a dual major in Japanese and International Economics.
Aside from my academics, I play the Alto Saxophone in the Wildcat Marching Band and Pep Band. It is an amazing experience to play music at different UK sporting events. This past school year was my seventh year in marching band and I am so glad I could continue that in Kentucky. Every Thanksgiving my mother, twin, older sister, and nephew visit and are able to see the Saturday game.
After going through band camp (learning the first show's marching and music) my freshman year, I joined a Co-Ed Band Service Fraternity called Kappa Kappa Psi. This particular fraternity provides many service and leadership opportunities, as well as close friends. My chapter has made some amazing progress in the two years I have been a member, and I cannot wait to see how much more we can help help the bands at the University of Kentucky.
During my sophomore year at UK, I started the process for studying abroad. I decided to go to Akita International University in Akita Prefecture, which is on the northeast part of the main island along the Sea of Japan. I picked it because most of the prefecture is pretty rural, which means English is spoken less than in cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. Akita International University (AIU) also has a few specific economics courses I needed to take.
During my application to AIU, I also applied for a few scholarships.
