Featured: The University of Alabama at Birmingham | |
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A Deep Dive into UAB’s Japanese Major Program
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has recently expanded its world languages and literatures department by introducing a new Japanese major. This major provides students with the remarkable opportunity to delve deep into the language and culture of Japan. With dedicated faculty, interactive classes, and a robust support network, UAB's Japanese major program has witnessed substantial growth.
The Japanese Major Program at UAB has been thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse needs of the student community. Courses are structured to accommodate learners at all levels, from beginners to advanced. Innovative teaching methodologies and approaches are integrated into the curriculum, ensuring that students not only acquire linguistic proficiency but also immerse themselves in the multifaceted world of Japanese culture.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the Japanese Major Program at UAB is the high level of language proficiency it offers. Graduates from this program are well-positioned to excel in global job markets, particularly in fields related to Japan and the broader Asian region. Notable success stories include recent graduates who majored or minored in Japanese and are currently thriving in Japan. They have assumed important roles such as English teachers and contributors to Japanese companies. These achievements underscore the program’s quality and highlight the vast array of global career opportunities available to UAB students upon graduation.
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Exploring Japan through UAB’s Study Abroad Opportunities
UAB is deeply committed to providing transformative study abroad experiences, and the Japanese Program is no exception. Recognizing the immeasurable value of true cultural immersion, UAB offers a variety of study abroad programs tailored to facilitate this experience.
A standout offering is the faculty-led two-week summer study abroad program in Japan. This program offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Japan’s vibrant culture. They are guided by experienced UAB faculty, ensuring a safe and enriching journey that allows for improved language skills and an in-depth exploration of Japan.
An exciting milestone was reached this fall with the launch of the first semester-long study abroad program in Tokyo. Several UAB students embarked on this enriching journey to deepen their understanding of Japan and further their language proficiency. The program encompasses coursework in Japanese language, culture, and history, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
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Immersion in Japanese Spirit: The Japanese Culture Club at UAB
Beyond the classroom, the Japanese Culture Club (JCC) remains a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and enrichment among UAB students. The JCC serves as an active community where enthusiasts of Japan gather to celebrate, learn, and share their passions. On a monthly basis, the JCC hosts a diverse array of events on campus, including movie nights, onigiri fundraisers, Asian festivals, origami workshops, and more. These events are thoughtfully curated to offer students opportunities to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, regardless of their Japanese proficiency level.
The JCC’s commitment extends beyond campus, with its active participation in community service. Club members generously volunteer for the Sakura Festival at Birmingham’s Japanese Botanical Gardens, contributing positively to the local Birmingham community.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham continues to be at the forefront of holistic, international education. Whether students are interested in pursuing a Japanese major, participating in study abroad programs, or joining the Japanese Culture Club, they are encouraged to explore the many opportunities available through the Department of World Languages and Literatures on UAB’s official website.
| Dr. Yoshiyuki Hara is a professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the Department of World Languages and Literature. Dr. Hara has a passion for foreign language education that focuses on the Japanese language and culture. JASA appreciates his contribution to this featured article and his contributions to the Japanese language’s visibility in our state. |
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Last Chance to Register for
JASA 2023 Celebration Dinner and Business Forum!
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JASA 2023 Annual Celebration Dinner
Thursday, November 9, 2023
5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
@ Ross Bridge Resort
Keynote Speaker:
Greg “Boomer” Wells (a former Major League Baseball and Nippon Professional Baseball Player)
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JASA 2023 Business Forum
Friday, November 10, 2023
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
@ Ross Bridge Resort
Keynote Speakers:
Kevin Taylor, Deputy Director of Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT)
Kristen Holder, Executive Director of Central Six Alabama Works!
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Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor! | |
Thank you to our Co-Platinum Sponsors! | |
November Kayoubikai /11月の火曜日会
November 14th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
@ Nori Thai and Sushi
4704 Cahaba River Rd, Birmingham, AL 35243
Join us for our November Kayoubikai at , a great opportunity to meet new friends with similar interests, practice Japanese, and stay connected with other people in our JASA community. All are welcome, whether you're a JASA member or not!
Please RSVP at least one day in advance! There is no cost to attend this event but everyone will be responsible for their own ticket at the end of the meal.
RSVP HERE!
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Become a JASA Member!
We are grateful to have the support of our corporate members and individual members at all levels!
Our members enjoy basic benefits as well as special support from JASA for welcoming Japanese guests, coordinating events, and more. Whether you are Japanese or American, represent a group related to Japanese business and culture, or just have an interest in Japanese culture, we welcome all members.
If you are interested in our membership program or would like more information, please contact us at officemanager@jasaweb.org or visit our website.
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Other News and Opportunities | |
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Mobile International Festival
November 18 10:00 - 4:00 PM (CST)
The Grounds, Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds
1035 Cody Rd N
Mobile, AL 36608
The annual Mobile International Festival is coming up this month on the 18th of November.
The festival provides the atmosphere of world travel, giving the opportunities to meet people from over 70 countries face-to-face, speak different languages, sample some delicious food, learn geography, history, art, social studies, music, science, and, above all, be inspired by our beautiful world and its people.
More Info
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おうちごはん! (Ouchigohan) Onigiri Homecooking Class
November 12, 4:00-5:30 PM CST
Online (Zoom)
(Registration Deadline: November 8th)
A fun, family-friendly class for Japan-America Society members! This event is being hosted as part of the ongoing Onigiri Action campaign from Table for Two USA, who we mentioned in last month’s newsletter.
Participants will receive a special Onigiri Action Kit in the mail with all the necessary authentic Japanese ingredients, including Japanese rice, tuna, Kewpie mayonnaise, special seasoning packets, Onigiri tools, and more!
After a short presentation about Onigiri, participants will cook together with the Japanese ingredients lead by our Ouchigohan instructor, Debra Samuels from TABLE FOR TWO.
More Info
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Alabama Delegation to Annual SEUS-Japan Summit
A Secretary of Commerce-led delegation including Honorary Consul Mark Jackson, attended the SEUS Japan summit this past month. This annual summit is an opportunity for Japan, Alabama and six other southern states to enhance the robust economic and cultural ties between the two countries. “The long-standing partnership between Japan and Alabama continues to spark economic growth, create opportunity, and foster deep friendships,” Canfield said. “That’s why I am looking forward to seeing this relationship blossom for decades to come.”
Secretary Canfield will be joining us for our Annual Dinner this month to speak and recognize the wonderful expanding Japanese companies in our state.
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JET Hopefuls: Applications open now
Reminder, as of September 25th, the current Japan Exchange and Teaching program application period has started and they will be accepting applications until midnight on the 17th of November. These applications can be completed through their secure web portal located here
The JET Program is a competitive employment opportunity that allows young professionals to live and work in cities, towns, and villages throughout Japan. Being a JET is an opportunity to work and to represent the United States as cultural ambassadors to Japan. Most participants serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) and work in public and private schools throughout Japan; some work as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) as interpreters/translators.
For more information on JET and how to apply, please click here
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JFLA Online Lecture:
YOKAI: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE SUPERNATURAL BEINGS OF JAPAN
November 21, 9:00-9:40 PM CST
Online
The Japan Foundation of Los Angeles will be holding an online lecture on Yokai as part of their ongoing online lecture series.
In conjunction with Japan Foundation's Yokai video series on Doors to the Arts of Japan, Japanese art historian Meher McArthur will introduce this fascinating and often terrifying aspect of Japanese culture, using woodblock prints from the collection of Scripps College in Claremont.
Read More
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if you'd like us to feature your organization/event in our newsletters!
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Japan-America Society of Alabama
2081 Columbiana Road #10
Birmingham, AL 35216
(205) 703-0960
www.japanalabama.com
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