Business Matters

Keita Yaji
B.S., Management

What are your plans for after graduation?

Since graduating from OSU in Fall 2023, I’ve been working full-time as a Student Success Services Coordinator at INTO OSU. My role focuses on assisting international students, primarily with arrival and housing processes. This position has been a fantastic way to leverage the skills and connections I gained during my time at OSU as a student and student employee.

Initially, when I came to the U.S., I wasn’t imagining myself working in higher education. However, my experiences in U.S. higher education, particularly working with international students, sparked a new passion for this field.

To explore these newfound interests, I actively sought opportunities within OSU. My on-campus job not only provided valuable experience but also helped me build connections that led directly to my current position.

Looking ahead, my Optional Practical Training (OPT) ends in December 2024. After that, I plan to return to OSU as a graduate student, pursuing a Master’s degree in Business with a focus on Supply Chain Management.

What is the most valuable thing you learned, regarding your academic studies?

My major was in Management. While all my classes were rewarding, the one that truly opened my eyes was Leadership MGMT 452. This course challenged my notion of leadership and emphasized the importance of taking action and initiative.

The most valuable lesson I learned was that leadership is developed through action, not just contemplation. The course introduced the concept of “outsight” – a type of awareness gained by experience. It resonated deeply with me: “We don’t unearth our true self; it emerges from what we do.”

This concept motivated me to actively seek opportunities to develop my leadership skills. I took on more responsibility in my classes and student organizations, and this ultimately led to my current role at INTO OSU.

I want to express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering support of my family back in Japan. They’ve always believed in me and supported me from afar, helping my dream come true in countless ways. I’m absolutely thrilled to share that my parents will be flying all the way from Japan to celebrate my graduation with me! I can’t wait to see them and share this special moment.

Keita Yaji

What are you most proud of regarding your student experience? What was the biggest challenge?

My college experience has been a journey of challenges and growth.

Adapting to a new culture and language in the U.S. presented a significant initial hurdle. Coming from Tokyo, Japan, and attending North Seattle College, I grappled with the language barrier and feelings of homesickness. However, I overcame these challenges by actively interacting with supportive people such as classmates, instructors, and community members. They were my motivation to improve my English communication skills.

The pandemic brought another challenge – online classes. Returning to Japan and taking online classes with the 17-hour time difference was tough. (Online yoga classes at 2 AM…!) Confined to my room and staring at a screen wasn’t ideal, but I focused on what I could control and earned my Associate’s Degree from North Seattle Collage.

Coming back to the U.S. and transferring to OSU in Fall 2021 marked a turning point. The beautiful campus, friendly people, and vibrant atmosphere truly ignited my college experience. Adjusting to in-person classes involved managing new schedules and navigating social settings, but it was incredibly rewarding. I actively participated in campus life through events, student organizations, and student employment.

Looking back, I’m most proud of my perseverance throughout these challenges. Despite setbacks, I never lost sight of my goal – earning this degree. This journey has not only equipped me with an education but also fostered resilience and independence. The experiences and connections I’ve built with people at OSU are something I truly cherish.

What else would you like to share?

I want to express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering support of my family back in Japan. They’ve always believed in me and supported me from afar, helping my dream come true in countless ways. I’m absolutely thrilled to share that my parents will be flying all the way from Japan to celebrate my graduation with me! I can’t wait to see them and share this special moment.