By D’Amonie Armstrong

Last Tuesday, December 12, I had the privilege of being invited to the Embassy of Japan. I was very excited upon hearing about this opportunity to put myself out there. And I was beyond excited to find out that the event was to honor our level 1 Japanese teacher, Shoko Hamano-sensei, for her endeavors and dedication working to draw connections within the Japan-D.C. world. We had the pleasure of having Hamano-sensei teach us virtually from California last year. Although virtual, she had an impact on us as she was this cohort’s start into this program. We learned hiragana and our names in katakana from Hamano-sensei, so she’s a big deal to us. Starting Japanese 2, we’ve missed her and it saddened us that we wouldn’t be able to meet her in person. So, I also felt honored to be the first to see and personally greet her on behalf of my cohort.  

Getting to see her accept her award, I couldn’t help but think how she’s inspired many people, as the room was filled with other Japanese teachers, former students of hers from college, and myself being the youngest in the room. 

I was a bit nervous upon getting to the building. The path leading up to the building, beyond the gate, was tiny stone squares. Guests were coming in alongside us, so I was afraid of stumbling, and of taking pictures. I didn’t want to look like I didn’t belong. Essentially, the fear went away because everyone was very nice. I introduced myself to the people Sally knew and connected with others I had met before. I was also excited to see our other sensei from last year, Tsujioka-sensei. The inside of the prestigious building was bright. I liked the small and flashy vibe it gave. 

When Sally had mentioned the food, I was of course more ecstatic as I would have a chance to see what was there and extend my palate. I ate well and spoke with ever greater people who were interested in my future plans (college, path regarding Japan and US relations). Being the youngest no longer intimidated me, as I could speak and hear from others who had the same goals as me, to have an impact on the Japan-DC world. I shared that I would take the opportunity to study in Japan whether directly or through studying abroad. My area of study would be linguistics with concentrations in specific languages. I also want to look into the JET program so I was able to speak with Tim Folsom from the Embassy’s Education Department, who did the program. All in all, I had fun and the evening will be remembered as one of the greatest events I’ve ever attended.  

I’m glad I was able to be present and represent high school students and myself. My hope is that high school students can have the opportunity to visit these embassies. I am incredibly grateful to have been invited, and I hope this is one of many events I will attend. A huge congratulations to Hamano-sensei for her active service in international relationships, someone I strive to be.