Blue Jordan (they/them)
I’m a senior from Northampton, Massachusetts, and I’m majoring in Japanese and Computer Science! In the future, I’m aiming to be a translator and localizer of entertainment, which derives from my life-long interest in different forms of art. Part of the appeal of visual art is that it transcends language barriers, but with something like theater, poetry, or novels, a translation is required in order for everyone to be able to connect with it. This trip is the perfect opportunity to combine my studies in Japanese with my passion for art; I can’t wait to discover how Kyotoite master artisans hone and practice their crafts to share them with the world!
Alana Lopez Barro Rivera (she/her)
I’m a Senior from Monterrey, Mexico. I am a History Major and hoping to also concentrate on German. This last Fall, I started taking Japanese. I love language learning and feel very lucky that I get to go to Japan so soon after starting to learn the language. I’m excited to get to learn about Kyoto culture and cultural history. At Williams, I am one of the managers of Goodrich Coffee Bar, Williams College’s fully student run coffee shop. I’m excited to explore Kyoto with everyone this January!
Craig Martien (he/him)
I am a senior from Mayo, MD, and a Spanish and Political Science double major. Outside of class, I am the co-founder and President of Midnight Productions, and I have previously acted and crewed in shows with the Williams Theatre Department and Cap & Bells. My favorite author of all time is Murakami Haruki, and other interests of mine include sailing, writing, and international film. I am absolutely thrilled to be part of this group!
Yunjin Park (she/her)
hello! my name’s yunjin! i’m a senior from the philippines (though both of my parents are korean) majoring in political science. i almost majored in japanese too, and though i had to drop the major, i still love learning the language. i’m involved in the williams student union. i love to watch animation (both western and eastern), play games (both video and board), and learn about etymology. super excited to be exploring kyoto and its incredible culture with everyone!
Malini Rudra (she/her)
I am a Senior from Syosset, NY. Despite being an Economics major, I have a strong interest in Art history, particularly architecture. On campus, I am on the Williams Women’s golf team. Outside of class my interests range from crocheting, Wes Anderson films, making pottery, and becoming an amateur Duolingo user.
Zia Saylor (she/her)
Hi! My name is Zia Saylor, and I am a senior at Williams College majoring in Economics and Political Science with Honors. On campus I am involved with the Williams College Jewish Association and Interfaith life. In my free time, I enjoy painting with acrylic and writing, two art forms that I expect will be influenced by my time in Japan learning from other artists.
Kevin Weng (he/him)
Hi! I’m a junior double majoring in Art History & Studio and Political Economy, and I live in Queens, New York. At Williams, I am a treasurer for the Questbridge Scholars Network (QSN) and an arts writer for the Williams Record. Outside the school, you can find me frequenting museums and galleries around the city and trying out all types of foods.
Alison Zhang (she/her)
Hey, my name is Alison Zhang, and I’m a junior and history major at Williams College. I love food and food history, especially Chinese and Japanese food culture, and seeing how it relates to communities and urban life. I enjoy baking, writing, and drawing in my free time.