After being introduced to Japanese music by his older brother when he was younger, Japanese junior Joseph Canty instantly took to the culture of Japan.
Canty was so inspired he eventually went on to study the culture at MSU. Canty said although music is his favorite aspect of it, he loves the food and fashion.
He said he has been to Japan three times as part of foreign exchange programs, improving his spoken Japanese.
Canty said the feeling of being able to be fluent in a language is fulfilling.
“You get so excited, and you really feel like it was worth it studying … and it’s fun,” Canty said.
Canty isn’t alone in his passion for Japanese culture. He currently is in charge of public relations for the Japan Club on campus, which hosts multiple events throughout the year. One of these upcoming events is the Curry Party held in October where members dress up and gather to play games.
“You don’t have to speak any Japanese to be in the club, but of course, half the people are native Japanese speakers,” Canty said. “I get to practice Japanese with them, so through that, my Japanese has gotten a lot better.”
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