About Studying in Japan

1. What made you decide to study in Japan (at Sophia University)?
I came to Japan to study mainly because my mom is Japanese, and after growing up in Palau, I really wanted to connect with that side of my roots. I had always dreamed about living in Japan, but honestly, I never imagined I'd actually end up in Tokyo. I chose Sophia University because it offered a really interesting English program, especially within the English Department. It felt like a good fit — a way to study in English while also immersing myself in Japanese culture and daily life.

2. What are you currently studying or researching?
I am studying under the Department of Education in the Sophia Programs for Sustainable Futures.

3. How is your student life in Japan so far? If you have any memorable experiences, please share them.
Student life in Japan has been really fun—I'm honestly loving the experience so far. One of the best parts has been joining the university swim team. Being part of a team here has taught me a lot, not just about swimming, but also about teamwork, team culture in Japan, and societal manners. We train hard, but we also have a lot of fun together, and it has made my time in Japan really memorable.

About Swimming & Olympics

4. We heard that you competed in the Women's 50-meter Freestyle at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Looking back, how was the experience?
I still cannot believe it's already been almost a year since I went to Paris and until now, it still feels surreal. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to compete at the Olympics. It was such an empowering and impactful experience, and it truly shaped who I am today. Representing Palau on that stage is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

5. When did you start swimming?
I started swimming when I was eight (3rd grade).

6. We assume you continued training after coming to Japan. Have you taken any special steps or had any strategies for balancing your studies and swimming?
For me, it really came down to understanding my priorities. I always reminded myself that I came to Japan first and foremost for my studies, and that being able to continue swimming here is a privilege, not a given. That mindset helped keep things in perspective. That said, I've never felt that balancing both has been too overwhelming, since I've been used to managing school and swimming ever since high school. It's definitely a challenge at times, but it's something I've grown comfortable with over the years.

7. Do you plan to continue swimming in the future?>
I'm not sure how much longer I'll continue swimming competitively, but swimming will always be a part of my life. It's been such a big part of my routine for so long that I know I'll really miss being in the water every day. So even if I'm not competing, I'll most likely keep swimming recreationally — it's something I truly enjoy and feel connected to.


About the Future

8. Now that you’re nearly halfway through your university life, could you share your goals and dreams for the future?
First off, I can hardly believe that Isabella and I will be in our third year this autumn, time really flies! As for my goals and dreams, I've always loved working with kids. One of my biggest dreams has been to one day run a kindergarten or create a safe space for children in Palau. I'm still undecided about what exactly I'll do right after graduation, but I know I want to contribute to the education sector in Palau and make a positive impact in that space someday.