July 08, 2022
On July 1, David Anderson, who participated in the first US
Department of State Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program hosted
by Okayama University and recently completed his course at the Graduate
School of Humanities and Social Sciences, paid a final courtesy call on
President MAKINO Hirofumi before returning to the US, where he will
continue his studies at Harvard University.
Mr. Anderson was one of the outstanding American university and graduate
students selected to participate in the CLS program, an intensive study
program focusing on Japanese language and culture, in June 2019. Even
among his impressive cohort, his exceptional Japanese language skills
stood out, and he soon cultivated an interest in “community development
through civic engagement” in Okayama, and especially in Maniwa City,
while taking part in various activities hosted by Okayama University.
In July 2021, Mr. Anderson returned to Okayama University as a Fulbright
research grant winner to conduct research on community development
under the guidance of Associate Professor IWABUCHI Yasushi at the
Academic and General Okayama University Regional Research Association
for one year. Fieldwork formed an important part of Mr. Anderson’s
research, and he spent a lot of time in Maniwa City.
During his visit with President Makino, Mr. Anderson spoke effusively
about his experience learning about the region’s sustainable community
development and diverse history, saying, “With its mountains, sea, and
cities, Okayama boasts quintessential Japanese landscapes and I feel as
though I was able to discover the ‘real Japan’ through my interactions
with locals in the area.” In response, President Makino remarked, “Mr.
Anderson, I believe you are extremely perceptive, and you notice many
charming and unique aspects of the area that people living in Okayama
tend to overlook. I hope that you will visit Okayama again in the near
future and become a bridge between the US and Japan.”
As a final word of encouragement to other Okayama University students,
Mr. Anderson commented, “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and
try new things. It will surely expand your world.”
Upon returning to the US, Mr. Anderson will study at the Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies at Harvard University, which is considered a veritable mecca for Japanese studies. President Makino ended the visit with the following words of encouragement: “I look forward to your continued success.”
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