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Being raised in Mexico and the United States cultivated my biculturalism, bilingualism, and global competence for other cultures. As someone who has crossed language barriers, assisting students in learning a second language through education is one of my most notable passions. On account of Mexico's low resources for teaching, my mother was seeking assistance at her job as a preschool educator. Therefore, I volunteered by teaching English for six years, creating activities centered on the Bilingual Method, which uses the traditional three P's: presentation, practice, and production. I presented the material to my students learning English; then, we would all practice together and create something with the learned material at the end of class. During my undergraduate journey, I have also volunteered to teach beginner's Japanese for about four hours per week. I provided additional assistance in the Japanese 101 course by creating a safe-zone environment to facilitate learning by considering my students' cultural and personal backgrounds.

 

Furthermore, I contacted my Japanese international friends for further instruction and assembled global competence between American and Japanese students. Currently, I'm taking my service-learning course at CSUMB with a group of three more students, where we coordinate and teach elementary school students about Japanese culture and language. I have incorporated methods of connecting my student's identity to Japan to create a more successful learning environment, such as comparing and contrasting Obon Festival and Dia de los Muertos. I strive to create more smiles through individuals wanting to learn about cultures by connecting their personal and cultural backgrounds.

 

 By being an RA, maximizing abroad experiences for international students has been another way to connect students globally. I currently serve for the Global Perspectives Living Learning Program floor, a community focused on providing international-themed learning. I have supported 750+ residents by offering them the necessary ​​mental health, cultural exposure, academic and personal wellness resources in this role. Additionally, I implement engaging educational programs that celebrate and provide insight into other cultures in and beyond CSUMB, such as Italian or Korean Culture.

As I write this statement, I realize that my "ikigai" has expanded, and going to Japan will be my next stepping stone. All the people and experiences in my life have opened my eyes to what makes me happy: learning about cultures and helping my communities. I hope to inspire others by finding their "Ikigai" through my support and driven passion for creating international relationships through education.