Class: 2024
Concentration: History and Literature
House: Leverett
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts
Favorite Japanese food: Udon
Japan-related experiences: Harvard Summer School in Kyoto (2023)
What connections to Japan, if any, did you have before coming to Harvard? I didn't have any connections to Japan prior to coming to Harvard, but I knew I wanted to study abroad in Asia. After my summer abroad, I absolutely hope to go back one day!
What were your initial plans when you arrived at Harvard? When I first got to Harvard, I knew I wanted to study History, but it wasn't until after a few classes in the History and Literature and Ethnicity, Migration, Rights departments that I began to narrow my academic focus on immigration and interdisciplinary Asian American studies.
What drew you to Japan, and how did you decide on Harvard Summer School in Kyoto? I definitely knew I wanted to study abroad in Asia at some point during my time in college. I was drawn to the HSS in Kyoto Program in particular because of the class subjects: East Asian Religions and Eastern vs. Western Medicines. My family background is Buddhist, and I was excited for the opportunity to learn about the history of Buddhism in Kyoto where I would be able to visit many important historical sites. The temples and sites that we visited during field trips ended up being one of the primary highlights of my time in Kyoto, both for my familial identity and as a student. It was extremely rewarding and exciting to visit these important sites as we were learning about their histories.
What was it like living in Kyoto this summer? I loved living in Kyoto this summer! It is such a special city with so much history, culture, and natural beauty. Even in the summer heat I explored plenty of different areas and took day trips to spots like Nanzenji, Lake Biwa, and Uji.
What are some highlights from your summer in Japan? Our week of independent study allowed me to explore the rest of Japan. I really appreciated the opportunity to explore other areas of Japan, each with their own specialties and unique opportunities. I got to try the onsen in Hakodate and explore lavender fields in Furano!
Was there something that surprised you about living and studying abroad? Please share! Immersion into such a different culture from the U.S. was really interesting and valuable. There are parts of Japan that I already miss being back home now (konbini and a great public transportation system), but many things were very unexpected to adjust to. Fore example, there were not many public trash cans and Japanese train etiquette is very different.
What advice do you have for others considering overseas study? I hope everyone who is considering studying abroad does it! This summer was my favorite Harvard experience, and studying abroad is such a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and learn a lot about yourself and a new culture. I would absolutely encourage anyone interested to take advantage of the generous funding opportunities to travel while at Harvard!
What are your plans after Harvard? I definitely would love to return to Japan! I am planning on taking a gap year after my senior year to either do a fellowship or work before applying to law school.