What inspired you to work for Hokkaido JaLS?
Students from over 40 countries from around the world gather at JaLS every year. It is a place where they are able to freely communicate every day. The school has a goal of creating a diverse environment. These are the things that drew me to the school, but they are also the things that I continue to learn about while working here. Even if only a little, I hope to help students have the best time possible while they are here.
Describe your role as the Academic Coordinator.
As the academic coordinator for Hokkaido JaLS, I am responsible for the maintenance and improvement of the quality of our educational programs. I regularly observe, meet with, and train teachers to ensure quality lessons for our students. I am also responsible for arranging classes so that students are placed in a class of the appropriate level.
How do your experiences of living and studying English in the USA and the UK, and Korean in South Korea, influence your work today?
The experience of living and working in these places allowed me to learn from people with different languages and backgrounds from my own. Through this work, I strongly believe that having respect for other people and the ability to share opinions are very important. These understandings and views strongly influence the way I interact and communicate with students who visit us from all over the world.
Do you have any advice for students hoping to learn a new language?
Going to a nearby school, making friends with people from that country, studying in that country—there are many ways to learn a new language! Please do not hesitate to get up and take action. You are sure to learn something if you try.
What is your favorite part of Japanese culture and language to share with students?
Japanese is a language in which the Japanese character and culture are very well represented. The more you get to know about Japanese culture and Japanese people, the better your language skills will become. Be sure to not only study your textbook, but get out and learn through first-hand experiences as well.
Why is it important for students to travel and learn new languages?
Being in and feeling the culture is very exciting and provides learning experiences beyond what anybody can expect. It is also a great chance to very naturally learn a language.
What hopes do you have for the future of academic programs at Hokkaido JaLS?
I hope to see practical business Japanese language course offerings and other types of practice and experiences in which students can challenge themselves.
