New Experiences!
It’s official! I’m leaving for Japan in two weeks and I’ll be there for three months. I’m going there because I need to complete my final requirement as an International Relations major at Stanford, which is to study abroad. After I finish the three months, I’ll be officially done with Stanford! Can’t believe how long it’s taken me to complete my majors (my other one is Japanese Studies) but my commitments to both, the Stanford team and the US National Team has made it really difficult to finish in the normal time frame.
Anyway, during my stay in Japan, I’ll study and train at Juntendo University in Chiba Prefecture (right outside of Tokyo). It’ll be a good opportunity because I’ll get to train with some of the best in Japan. In fact, three of the six members from the ’08 Olympic team are currently there, including former world and Olympic champions, Hiroyuki Tomita and Takehiro Kashima. I also cannot wait to see my old coach, Mutsumi. With my leg getting better, I should be able to start some gymnastics-related training while I’m there.
Not only will this experience be good for my gymnastics, but being in Japan will help me get more in tune with my own culture!
I’ll definitely be writing from Japan so be sure to check back frequently!
Hiroyuki Tomita
Takehiro Kashima
Hey Sho,
Going to Japan…that’s totally awesome! I hope you will have a great time. I sensed a negative that it’s taken you so long to finally finish all your studies. I want to let you know that it’s OK…you are finishing that’s what counts. You have had so many distractions and activities, how could one expect to get it all in! Talk about motivation. When will you leave?? Good things are coming your way. I know dad is watching and smiling. He has always been proud of you. kim
Hey Kimi,
Yea, I’m super excited. Japan should be really fun, and definitely a great experience. I leave in about two weeks. I’ll say hi from above when I’m flying over Hawaii!
lol…! Lots to do before you leave, eh? What about your therapy? Keep up the good work, though. Cali will miss you…I’ll be watching as you fly by!
Yes, lots to do for sure! I’ll be continuing my therapy out there. They have a pretty good program so I’m in good hands. Thanks always for checkin in!
Hi, Sho-san,
I thought you were already in Japan!
Climate here is getting better and you must enjoy best season in Japan.
Anyway we are looking forward to seeing you.
Have a safe trip.
Regards,
Hi Sawako-san,
Yes, I’m leaving next week. I will definitely let you know when I get there. I would love to see you all.
Please give my regards to Akira-san and your kids! Look forward to catching up!