And so it begins...

 こんにちわ！はじめまして、Church-です。どうぞよろしくおねがいします。

Hello! Nice to meet you. 😊 My name is Lily Church, and I am a junior at the University of Notre Dame studying biology and anthropology. My primary career interest is in researching Native American health, particularly surrounding genetics and evolution in a historical sense. My family is Native, and I think of colonization, wondering if the harsh and rapid introduction of new disease, food, ways of life, etc. correlates with the severe allergies and health conditions my dad and brothers have. 

Considering my academic background, it might seem a little odd that I chose to take Japanese! However, I am planning to study abroad at Sophia University in Tokyo this upcoming spring semester. This program is English-based, but I still think it is always respectful to learn some of a country's language before visiting as a foreigner. It will also make navigation and conversing with people far easier! 

The reason I chose to study abroad in Japan is because I love Japanese literature. I read on my own while also having taken a couple classes at Notre Dame on the subject, and here are my top recommendations:

1) Kafka on the Shore by Murakami Haruki (my favorite book ever!)

2) Masks by Enchi Fumiko (linked here is a paper I wrote about this novel -- it was fascinating to analyze)

3) Night on the Galactic Railroad by Miyazawa Kenji

4) In A Grove by Akutagawa Ryūnosuke

I’m excited to immerse myself in Japan’s literature, art, and history, from exploring museums to learning traditional flower arranging. I also hope to deepen my understanding of Japan’s indigenous histories—particularly those of the Ainu and Ryūkyūan peoples—and to explore their knowledge of health and medicine, which connects closely to my career interests. This language class will aid me in all of this, and I look forward to sharing what I learn along the way!

Thank you for reading, and ...

じゃあ、また！

--Lily