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Japan, I have never seen such a thing, unless I go to a nightclub really late at night.” Adapting to American culture was made easier,


Hiroki says, by the Offi ce for International Students and its director, Esther Gunel. Esther came to Eastern as an international student herself, so she understands the experience and its challenges. In her welcome message on the offi ce’s website, Esther writes, “I ask that you make an eff ort to reach out and meet students from other countries; to take the initiative to meet American students in your classes and around campus; to join student organizations and to participate fully in campus life.” It’s the kind of advice Hiroki needed. “Esther knows how to push students forward, to


improve themselves,” he says. “She encouraged me to be independent.” When he fi rst arrived at Eastern, Hiroki joined the Japanese Student Association, but he says that being surrounded by other Japanese students wasn’t helping him improve his English or understand American culture. Then he found the CloseUP Theatre Troupe, which uses skit-style performances to explore health and social issues that are relevant to students. Hiroki says working with the troupe has helped him relate to his EMU counterparts. “Now I feel like I’m seeing the real America,” he says. Hiroki will graduate in 2016 with a master’s degree


in theater with a concentration in interpretation and performance studies. He hopes to stay for another year to take advantage of Optional Practical Training, an opportunity for international students to get one year of on-the-job experience. After that, he’ll need to get an H-1B work visa to hold a job legally in the U.S. Work visas require sponsorship by an employer and are expensive. Hiroki says he’s heard that right now most companies are looking for engineering majors. “So it’s pretty tough for other majors, like me


– communication and language.” He pauses for a moment, then adds, with the confi dence of someone who has left everything he knows to conquer a new country, “I’ll fi gure it out.” 3


To donate an item or make a gift, visit emich.edu/mckennygallery.


Eastern | WINTER 2016 31


Were you a member of a student or Greek organization? University Archives is now accepting objects and materials for upcoming McKenny Gallery exhibits. The student organization exhibit opens April 2016, while the Greek life exhibit will open April 2017. We’re looking for items like letterman’s sweaters, fraternity or sorority paddles and pins, ticket stubs, event programs, scrapbooks, or photographs.


Already downsized and no longer have your memorabilia? You can still support the McKenny Gallery by making a gift through the EMU Foundation.


McKenny Gallery opened its doors in the fall of 2013. The museum-quality display cases, pedestals and shelves are home to a rotating display of historical photographs and other memorabilia showcasing EMU’s rich history.


From the collection of Randy Mascharka


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