1) How did you get involved with JASC, and how do you feel about your experience as a JASC delegate?

I learned about the JASC program during my studies at the School for International and Public Affairs at Columbia University. And, I am so glad I did. The program and what I learned during my summer in Japan has had a profound impact on my life.

My particular interest in the Japanese culture stemmed from an article I read about the political climate in Japan in the late 1980s. The views expressed by the article piqued my interest in developing a better understanding of the people and history of Japan. During my interactions with the Japanese delegates, I often asked them about the views expressed in the article and it provided a great topic for long subsequent discussions and informative dialogue. I took my role as an American delegate seriously and I tried always to demonstrate and share my beliefs, customs and experiences with my Japanese counterparts through what I said and through what I did. I would often explain my reactions and the cultural context within which they developed so that my counterparts could learn more about me. Other delegates often did the same for me, both Japanese and American, for I learned a lot about my American delegates as well. This aspect of the program was quite special.

I recall talking a lot during the course of the program. I talked about art, music, politics, the role of women, the treatment of minorities and all types of social issues, particularly the treatment of those with AIDS, which was an issue that was at the forefront in the US during the summer of 1987. All of the delegates--Japanese and American, alike, ---worked hard to approach all issues with thoughtfulness and respect. This approach added so much richness to our dialogues and I learned so much.

2) In what way has participation in JASC has affected or assisted the course of your life and career?

My participation in the program seemed a natural progression along my continuum of cultural study. Prior to participating in JASC, I participated in two other exchange programs: the Experiment in International Living Program, which included a home stay with an Italian family in southern Italy and a junior semester abroad program that took me to Kenya for 4 months.

By the time I entered the JASC program I was a seasoned traveler and I was fully ready to take in all that the program had to offer. From the homestays with Japanese families to the long and satisfying exchanges of ideas with program participants, I had a most enriching experience during stay in Japan.

The orientation that the JASC program provided prior to our travel to Japan was invaluable in helping me to understand the context in which many Japanese customs evolved. Because of this orientation I was able to anticipate the cultural differences and consequently embrace and enjoy them.I have carried this practice of cultural immersion and research to my professional dealings.

My JASC experience has prepared me well for my current work with a global company. While I work in our US corporate headquarters, my company operates in over 80 countries around the world. Diversity and multiculturalism permeate my daily work experience, as I communicate with those in other countries regularly. Realizing that preparation often enhances one's experience, I often research the business customs of a particular country prior to my travels or business dealings with colleagues there.

JASC has taught me the value of cultural knowledge and I continually seek to learn more in this regard. All of my exchange experiences, especially the structured table discussions at JASC, have provided a framework within which I have been able to see, firsthand, how cultural differences shape one's world view. Since I know that culture and customs impact how my colleagues process my business dealings, I am a student of business culture and its impact in the workplace. I work daily to ensure that I leverage these differences, where I can, to achieve collective business goals.

3) Do you have any advice, comments, or anecdotes you’d like to share with future JASCers?

Approach your experience with an open mind and enjoy!