I understand first hand how certain experiences hold the power to change lives for this is how my interest in Japanese culture initially sparked. During my freshman year of high school when my family hosted our first of five exchange students I immediately knew my calling in life would incorporate thinking globally.

Through an intimate sister city exchange relationship between Tsuru city in Yamanashi Prefecture and my hometown Hendersonville located near Nashville, Tennessee I was personally able to experience firsthand the benefits that result from not only, sharing my own culture with another, but also learning about a culture very different from my own. Soon after hosting our first exchange student I was nominated to join the board of our Sister City Program as Student Representative. This opportunity allowed me to personally visit Japan as a high school student to represent my high school peers in addition to my city. After returning from this short adventure abroad I was certain that I would return again to study more about the Japanese language and culture, and I did.

After two years of studying both international business and Japanese at my home institution, Maryville College I returned to Japan once again to study at Kansai Gaidai University located in Osaka, Japan.

Upon graduation I applied to teach English through the JET Program and now I live in Kyushu, Japan doing just that.

One day I aspire to use my understandings of Japanese culture and language in the international business sector. While I have plans of also attending graduate school to obtain an MBA, I am in no hurry. First, I'd like to bike across Japan and then see more of the world.