Why I chose to study Japanese

Since I was young, I have been exposed to Japanese culture mainly through my childhood friend, Yuuki. Our mothers were co-workers at UNESCO in Paris, and grew rapidly to be friends, probably sharing the experience of being foreigners in France as well as new mothers. I grew up watching Hayao Miyazaki movies, which I love to this day. Later on I developed a great interest in the culture and history of Japan. This had to do with my interest in East Asian civilizations and comparative religion. I am particularly intrigued by the place of Zen Buddhism and Shinto in the development of the culture and in every day practices. I also just love learning new languages and in the process understanding the complex systems behind them. I have really enjoyed the intensity of this past month's Japanese classes -- I am learning a lot and quicky, which is rewarding and really helps to consistently fuel my interest!