Describe why you have chosen to apply to a program in Japan?

What specifically interests you about living and working in Japan? Do you have any prior exposure to Japanese language, culture, society, etc. and, if so, please describe how these experiences relate to your interest in the NanoJapan program. Why is it important for students studying science and engineering to have experience working in an international, cross-cultural setting?

When I first saw this program online, I immediately felt that something had clicked. The reason behind this is because I am a Japanese-American citizen going to Olin College of Engineering. I have chosen to apply to this program in Japan because that is where my origins are from. During my junior year of high school, I had competed in an international science fair called the Japan Super Science Fair, in Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan. Our team of five from Hawaii went to Japan and gave a presentation on the contamination of the Ala Wai Canal, a canal which runs right by our school. Being in Japan for the brief week we had was amazing to me. Specifically, I am interested in renewable energy and I know that Japan has advanced hydropower research. Being raised by one Japanese mother, she has taught me