“When I was 19” is a series of online events in which invited speakers with global experience tell stories of the time when they were as old as current first- or second-year students. On August 27, 2020, we invited Professor Mari Yoshihara, who is a UTokyo graduate currently working as a professor of American Studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, to give a talk entitled, “The Universe of the University.” Undergraduate students, who have registered for the Go Global Gateway program, were eligible to apply for this event and many students participated in the event.
Event advert
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/adm/go-gateway/en/200827.html
In her talk, Professor Yoshihara told the participants why and how she became a tertiary teacher who teaches American studies in America although she did not pursue an academic career when she was a student at UTokyo. She also talked about her study abroad experience in the United States, and the importance of increasing one’s awareness of social issues and of tackling such issues.
After the talk, the participants divided into small groups and they discussed questions they wanted to ask Professor Yoshihara. She popped into each group and interacted with the students. It was a great opportunity for the students to communicate with the UTokyo graduate who has much experience of working abroad.
The small group discussion was followed by a question and answer session in which the participants asked Professor Yoshihara various questions such as her academic life in the United States, and the difference between Japanese and American students. Many questions asked by the students impressed Professor Yoshihara.
We are planning to host similar events for students who have registered for the Go Global Gateway program. Please join our future events!