Taylor

Hello my name is Taylor. I am a 3rd year student at the University of Calgary. I am majoring in German studies with a minor in Japanese. I am 20 years old and I am so excited for this trip, I can't wait! I am an introvert, so quiet time is the best time. Reading is my favourite pastime, and crochet is always fun.

I started learning Japanese in the summer of my second year. I've always wanted to learn Japanese and languages are turing into my sole ambition. My interest in Japanese culture and language began when I was just 2 years old and watching Sailor Moon, my childhood has always been filled with anime. Learning Japanese has been one of the best decisions of my life, i absolutely love learning it and class is always so fun and interesting.

Some of my main interests in Japanese culture revolve around the kimono and certain styles of dress. I can't wait to visit all the shops of Japan and learn about how to properly wear kimono and yukata. I love anime and manga and interesting Japanese sweets. My entire childhood I grew up being influenced by Japanese animation so it's no wonder I wanted to learn more about Japanese culture as I grew up. Studio Ghibli animation is a staple in my house. My favourite item of Japanese pop culture is Pokemon. I grew up watching the anime and playing the game. So I am really excited to go out to the mega Tokyo Pokemon Centre and buy all the plush. I can't wait to try some proper wagashi, and all different flavours of KitKat. 

I hope to learn a lot in Japan and become more fluent in Japanese as a result. I want to be able to hold a decent conversation by the end of this experience.