Some LESCANT Photos
My Classes Japanese Art
In this class we explored Japanese art styles From the earliest recorded pottery to modern sculptures being created today. This class also took a look at international influences. In his class we were tasked with visiting museums and art galleries which gave us the opportunity to see art history come to life. Women in Japan This class explored the deep rooted issues facing the women of Japan and how those problems relate internationally to the plight of all women Japanese Literature This class focused on translated work versus works still in Japanese. Despite this, we dissected different influential books and novels Fieldwork in Japan In a model similar to service learning, this class focused on exploring the community around Machida and Fuchinobe. We spent the semester interviewing and creating bonds with the community leaders and small bushiness owners. We used the interviews to pin point areas of friction and highlights within the community. In addition we considered globalization and foreign influences affect on the community. Japanese Language Classes This course built upon he foundation I gained at CSUMB to give me the tools I needed to navigate and survive in Japan. |
My Time In JapanMy time abroad was one of the most rewarding and influential times in my life so far. I had the opportunity to study at J.F. Oberlin (Obirin) for approximately one year. In that time I was able to completely immerse myself in the language and improve my understanding of not only how things are said and done but more importantly WHY things are said and done. I had a first hand look into festivals, traditions, and practices that I had previously only read about in class. I took advantage of my time to get as many of my questions answered, while at the same time remaining open to anything Japan felt fit to throw at me. I met some amazing people who helped guide me around the more intricate aspects of traditional practices. With them I never felt ashamed of not understanding something. I used Japanese in everyday life and grew further outside of the classroom in ways I never thought possible.
In my travels I explored the parts of Japan that were further away from the comfort of Tokyo. Everywhere I went I tried to sample the local favorites such as the snake wine of Okinawa. I visited temples and shrines and did my best to adhere to the rules and costumes of each. I learned about different regions and what is popular or important to them and the history/folklore behind it. Such as the beef in Kobe or the deer in Nara. These small aspects of culture often incur a sense of pride in the locals so great that I could only admire and enjoy with them. I realize that as different as our cultures may be, we are all human and we have in us an innate sense of love and a want to be understood. My time abroad will forever remain as one of the most influential times in my life. I developed academically as well as mentally, and for that I will always be grateful to the vast amount of friends and acquaintances I had the opportunity to meet during this time. Evidence:
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