65th Anniversary Special
The Internationalist Spring 2015
Class of 1981
Julie Fujishima “Being bilingual means not only speaking two languages but also having in-depth knowledge of the people and culture identified with both.”
Age: 48 Country of Residence: Japan Education: Le Rosey; The American School In Japan; Sophia University Occupation: Executive Vice President Company: Johnny & Associates
The most important thing I learned at Nishimachi: Being bilingual means not only speaking two languages but also having in-depth knowledge of the people and culture identified with both.
The things that concern me most about the world today: Climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, and the food crisis are the greatest threats to the planet.
Most enduring memory of Nishimachi: Our class trip to Chiba in the ninth grade on bicycle. I cannot believe that we went so far without taking a train or car.
When I’m not at work, you’ll most likely find me either having dinner with a client or at home resting!
The teachers at Nishimachi who had the greatest impact on the person I am today: Ms. Matsukata, Ms. Hirooka, Ms. Kitamura, Ms. Takada. The most exciting thing about my life today is being a full-time, working mom with a daughter going to the same school from which I graduated! The best part of my job: When I feel that what I do can make a positive difference to other people’s lives.
If I were to write an autobiography, the book’s title would be: Work Seven Days a Week and Keep Smiling! The most important things in my life today are my daughter and the people who support me at home and at work. If I could give one piece of advice to my fifteenyear-old self, it would be: Listen to what adults say. They know what they are talking about.
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