I intend to major in Japanese if I am given the opportunity.  My interest in Japanese Culture first came during my first study abroad experience in Australia.  It was a difficult experience as first since I was the only Korean student there and the first people I had conversations with were of Japanese descent.  While there is indeed a historical axe to grind that Koreans have for the Japanese, this did not stop me from becoming close friends with several of them.  These were friends who sported their own sense of awesome style, who have been an immense source of strength for me living in a foreign environment, and friends with whom I went to many places and did many things together.

The experience that I shared with them extended not only to the cultural aspect but at times we discussed and respected each others’ history and had many conversations together in order to gain an even deeper understanding of one another. As a result, my past prejudice for the Japanese was changing. With this new found understanding, I came in touch with much more of the Japanese pop culture, animation, and games through friends, which piqued my escalating interest in the Japanese culture.

Thereafter, although I was carefully planning to study abroad in Japan, considering the many different aspects such as the economical and educational perspectives involved with studying abroad, my parents and I reached the conclusion to study aboard in the U.S.  I recall the words “American Dream” that I had heard before.  With anticipation and trepidation, I faced the rolling expanse of Californian soil, an American school, its students and new friends.  My friends in America encompassed a meeting of locals Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and Koreans, and while sharing my experiences with them I have come in touch with the foods and cultures of each country.

Thanks to the many memories I had of my Japanese friends I had an easy time making even more Japanese friends and to build further friendships. During a school vacation I made my first visit to Japan, and my friend who was living there helped me as a guide. I had a wonderful time observing the Japanese culture, the food, the fashion, and the clean streets and convenient transportation system which seemed to be telltale signs of an advanced country. These observations were more than enough to grab my attention, and I had a wonderful time as I observed and learned by drawing comparisons from my travels in the past. Regarding my second trip to Japan, I cannot forget the sincere kindness that I had received.

It did not take long for me to take this newfound knowledge and realization and mold it as my own.  As such, I would encourage those in my community to reach across the cultural and racial barriers to learn more about other cultures. I realized that the vital matter of grave concern in the community is the listening and understanding factor.  Many people want to voice out their frustrations but are unable to yet through my actions, I believe that I was able to help them out.

That is why I believe that this course is a crucial step for me.  My success and my accomplishments here will herald the beginning of the fulfillment of my personal and professional goals.  It is said that the one thing that nobody can ever take away from you is your education and that is the one thing that I plan to not only gain for myself but for others as well