The Japanese Association (JA) held an event called Japanese 101 on Tuesday, February 28 from 11:00-12:30 p.m. in the event space. They taught basic phrases, such as greetings, introductions, and food ordering skills. The students had a one-on-one conversation with JA members learning the pronunciation of the words. The J.A members helped students correctly pronounce words, which took time to get used to. With some practice and help from the JA members, students could pick up on the small phrases easily.

Jacob Holmer, a member of the Japanese Association felt that this event was a necessity for the Lakeland students on campus to have a comfortable lifestyle. “The Japanese Association holds lot of these events on campus in order to get students to feel comfortable in wanting to learn about different cultures. We understand there is a sense of alienation due to the language barrier. But, despite that fact the student body of Japanese students that are English sign language (ESL) want students to be interested in and involved in their affairs.” Holmer.

The Japanese Association meets on Mondays at 4:00 p.m. in the eStudio. The eStudio is in the Campus Center to the left of the mail desk. The J.A is hoping to plan for more upcoming events for students to enjoy, including a dance for International Night on April 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bradley theater. They will be one of many of the clubs who will be sharing their culture and influences on the student body and faculty of Lakeland University.

Lakeland needs events like these to be held for inclusiveness and welcoming for all types of cultures. The student body and faculty should be able to experience a welcoming atmosphere where culture is accepted to be enjoyed by those with curiosity for knowledge