Saaya Morikawa
Name: Saaya Morikawa
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Political Science
Saaya Morikawa describes herself as curious. Most would agree with this self-assessment considering she journeyed from the other side of the world to attend CCU. Wanting to experience life outside of crowded Tokyo, Saaya was attracted to Coastal because of its calm and beautiful campus. Adding that she felt she could truly experience nature at CCU, Saaya’s college choice landed her in a completely new environment.
Of course that “environment” is much more than atmospheric conditions. When Saaya arrived in the United States she found herself in an entirely new cultural environment. People on the street were more prone to talk to her and she felt less restricted than when she lived in Japan. As for the classroom, Saaya notes that American classes are much more interactive with grades based on multiple factors as opposed to straight exam scores.
A political science major, Saaya has come a long way with her English skills. Admitting that she knew very little of the language when she arrived in the States, she credits her ELS teachers and fellow ELS students for helping her become comfortable with English. Currently a freshman and looking to work in the country for at least a year after graduation, we are excited to have Saaya on this side of the globe for the near future. We admire her bravery and hope she continues to enjoy her time at Coastal.