04/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/16/2024 12:11
Category II
Category III
Category IV
Category IV is the most advanced category.
Gattis, a junior from Winder, Georgia, was impressed with the performance of his fellow students from UNG and other universities and grateful for the chance to excel.
"It was definitely a great experience for me personally to show off how much I've learned over the years," Gattis said. "It really helped me improve my self-esteem as a student of Japanese."
Mulcahy, a senior cadet from Augusta, Georgia, said practicing for the contest was a valuable experience.
"My Japanese got better because I said these words over and over again," she said.
Japanese faculty in the Department of Modern Languages supported students in the preparation period. Dr. Tomoe Nishio, associate professor of Japanese, isn't surprised by their success.
"After so many rehearsals, Alyssa delivered her speech with great confidence and enthusiasm. Her effort paid off," Nishio said. "All the UNG contestants did a wonderful job, and I am happy to see them encouraged even further to improve their Japanese."
Sawako Tsutsumi, lecturer of Japanese, also praised their achievements.
"Xiaoxi worked hard to prepare for the contest over two months, revising the speech multiple times, practicing with me outside of class every week, and fine-tuning everything, including the pitch accent, speed, and facial expressions. Her performance was excellent, and I am very proud of her," Tsutsumi said.
Kihoon Kim, lecturer of Japanese and Korean, was excited to witness their performances on site.
"Alex's passion for and determination in his study of Japanese has grown even more through preparing his speech. He deserves what he got. Kudos to Alex," Kim said.
UNG student Autumn Cleymans served as emcee for the event after a strong performance a year ago that earned her a study trip to Japan.