NCEA JAP Scholar winning 5+ Language competitions, teaches NCEA Level 1,2,3 Japanese, passed JLPT N2 high score

Find out more about Yujin

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I couldn't speak this language fluently in the beginning, however, my first japanese friend who came to my school as an exchange student influenced me greatly to learn it. At that time we were very young and she couldn't speak English and Korean, so we mostly used body language to communicate. Ahh I miss that time. I wanted to study and speak Japanese so that we could talk. Luckily I met a great Japanese teacher and this made me eager to study Japanese.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  Miyazaki Hayao, a living film director and animator, epitomizes Japanese culture through works like "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Spirited Away." I love his films because they reflect Japan's values, aesthetics, and interplay between nature and spirituality, making him a modern cultural icon.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behavior in the language that you particularly like?

  "Ikigai" is a captivating aspect of Japanese culture that might not be widely known but holds significant value to the local people. It represents the convergence of one's passion, profession, mission, and vocation - the sweet spot where what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for intersect. This concept encourages individuals to find purpose, fulfillment, and a sense of direction in their lives. It's a subtle yet profound philosophy that underscores the importance of a balanced and meaningful existence, providing insight into the Japanese approach to finding joy and purpose in everyday life.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Japanese is of immense importance to me as it has forged profound connections with people and broadened my horizons for learning. Through my journey with the language, I've established meaningful relationships across cultural boundaries, while delving into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. Winning competitions paved the way for me to become an exchange student in Japan, where three transformative weeks solidified my passion. These experiences underscore how genuine enthusiasm for learning can lead to life-changing opportunities and deep appreciation for the world's diversity, making speaking Japanese not only personally enriching but also a bridge to invaluable experiences and cherished relationships.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  The primary challenge in learning this language stemmed from the scarcity of quality study resources, compounded by the expectation from my school's Japanese teacher for us to self-study during class time. This made the initial establishment of a robust Japanese foundation somewhat demanding. However, once I honed effective study techniques, the subsequent learning journey became significantly smoother. The difficulty lay in navigating these early hurdles, but as I mastered the art of studying Japanese, the rest became history.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  During high school, a standout memory revolves around a spontaneous Japanese-speaking task assigned by our teacher. Entranced by my studies on Kyoto, I passionately described its temples, cherry blossoms, and tea ceremonies. This unexpected opportunity not only boosted my confidence but also highlighted the language's capacity to vividly convey culture. It remains a cherished reminder of the profound connection between learning and sharing language.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Embarking on an exchange program in Fukuoka, Japan, was a transformative experience that significantly elevated my language skills. Through immersion in the culture and interactions with native speakers, I delved into Japanese history and language intricacies, including the language nuances of teenagers. This firsthand exposure not only improved my communication skills but also enriched my understanding of cultural contexts woven into the language.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  My distinction as a Superprof in Japanese language education lies in my dedication to creating a dynamic learning atmosphere. Fueled by a profound passion for the language and culture, I customize my teaching methods to suit diverse learning styles, blending grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. By intertwining interactive exercises and cultural insights, I guide students towards proficiency and a deeper cultural understanding, ensuring a fulfilling linguistic journey.