When I first started learning Japanese when I was in middle school, I remember thinking that it just felt good in my mouth. Since then I've had a passion for the Japanese language and culture. I recently returned from living in Japan as a volunteer for 18 months. Some of the activities I did during this time included studying Japanese, disaster relief work and teaching beginner, intermediate, and advanced English as a free service. In my experience teaching English and helping my peers learn Japanese, I learned how much I love working with people one-on-one. More than merely memorizing a curriculum or preparing for a test, I think studying is all about having fun learning through whatever style fits you best. I'd love to work with students individually to help them come to love and use Japanese like I do!

Now that I have returned from Japan, I have resumed working toward getting a Bachelors degree in Illustration because I love storytelling and animation! I hope to combine my love for storytelling and my love for Japanese by creating stories influenced by Japanese language and culture. I also love to learn and try new things, whether it's travel to a new place, make a new food or learn a new skill! I think it's important to learn about things you like and to like things you learn about. For that reason, I aim to work with students in a way that is both helpful and enjoyable!