Q: Where are you from?
A: Tokyo, Japan
Q: Why did you choose Kirkwood?
A: Solid reputation and affordability.
Q: What is your major and how did you choose it?
A: Science since I am hoping to eventually find a job in the medical field.
Q: What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood?
A: When invited to join the Phi Theta Kappa. It was the first time I felt like I could make it as a college student in the U.S.
Q: What are your plans after Kirkwood?
A: I am hoping to get transferred to the medical laboratory program at UI.
Q: What inspires or motivates you?
A: Growing up in the abusive family background, I needed to support myself asap and did not have a chance to receive the education I wanted. Being able to lean like this now is a dream come true. Also, as a mom, I’d like to show my daughter that the life can be rewarding when we are willing to cherish it.
Q: Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood – hobbies, family, other interests, etc.
A: Hanging out for a year with a long-quarantined kid like this is the totally unexpected one and only byproduct of pandemic I’m glad to have.
Q: What does be named an Outstanding Student mean to you?
A: Being a foreign mom without much former education, I never expected it. Deciding to apply to a college was very scary, but I’m glad I didn’t give up.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A: Ever since enrolled to the Kirkwood, I’ve felt like a tiny Japanese duck suddenly mingling into a group of geese to cross the sea. I’m very grateful for the extra support I received from Professor Emily McWorthy and Mr. Curtis in math department in a time of need, and the ongoing patience shown from the professors to the wondering ducky mom.
Categories: Outstanding Students