Q&A with TOMODACHI Alumni Intern: Aya Kaneko
For this interview, we talked with Aya Kaneko, who was an Alumni Social Media Intern from August 2023 to May 2024. She is a Sakura Scholar at American and Ritsumeikan Universities, studying Global International Relations and Affairs. She worked at Ritsumeikan University as a Graphic Design Artist and she used her artistic skills to create numerous marketing materials and artworks for the TOMODACHI Alumni Program. She will be moving back to Washington D.C. in August to start her senior year at American University.
1. What sparked your interest in doing an internship with TOMODACHI?
My school experience began with a proactive professor who introduced me to the TOMODACHI program. Intrigued, I researched and applied, thinking, “Why not?” Fortunately, I was accepted, marking the start of my journey with the program.
2.Why were you interested in Japanese and American Cross Culture?
As a Japanese American, I seek internships aligned with my interests in cross-cultural communication and visual identity, crucial areas complimenting my global international relations major. I’m dedicated to fostering Japan-US relations, influencing both my academic and professional pursuits, particularly in exploring visual identity’s role in intercultural exchanges through my internship.
3.How was your experience as an intern in this program?
Starting in a professional group was challenging yet rewarding. Initially daunting, I grew more comfortable navigating the new environment, aligning with the organisation’s values, and making meaningful contributions. TOMODACHI’s initiative boosted my teamwork skills and confidence.
4.What was the most meaningful experience?
Attending the TOMO-KIN event vividly showed me real impact in a hybrid setting. Creating a trifold for the TOMODACHI initiative at the US-Japan Council’s conference was rewarding; seeing tangible results and receiving feedback made the experience deeply fulfilling.
5.So in what ways did your experience and the internship help you in the future?
The internship has already proven beneficial for my future. It enhanced my communication and teamwork skills and emphasised the importance of person-to-person exchanges. I also gained proficiency in Adobe and Canva, revitalising my design skills after several years of casual use.
6.What does TOMODACHI mean to you?
I’ve emphasised community and person-to-person exchange. This internship fostered a collaborative spirit, enhancing the TOMODACHI community through meaningful interactions. It was nice to experience all these perspectives, highlighting the value of community. My time with Kaoru-san, Ai-san, Aiaka-san, and Hannah strengthened our bonds. I look forward to maintaining these connections beyond TOMODACHI.
7.As an intern for the TOMODACHI alumni, what are some of the challenges within your community, and what opportunities do you think TOMODACHI/USJC can do to help address?
In my community, I focus on food security research as a passion project. It’s not for credit or part of my major in international relations, but I’m eager to expand its impact through exchanges with the TOMODACHI community, fostering understanding between Japan and the US on this vital topic.
8.What are your plans for the future?
Before considering graduate school, I aim to gain work experience. I’m interested in a Mandarin critical language scholarship after seven years of study. Passionate about international education, I focus on cross-cultural communication and food security awareness, aiming to design curriculum and foster Japan-US relations.
9.Do you have any advice or anything you’d like to share with the TOMODACHI community?
Maintaining connections and effective communication are crucial in life. I actively reach out to explore opportunities through emails, leveraging my current position in Japan to engage with Japanese organisations and companies. It’s reciprocal—building relationships where both parties benefit is key.
This interview was conducted by Yaakash Akito Inoue on May 24th 2024. Yaakash is a TOMODACHI Alumni Intern as of June 2024.
