After double-majoring in Japanese and Economics at Wellesley, Maureen attended fashion school in Osaka. She is currently a costumer on Cirque du Soleil’s ‘OVO’ tour.
Why did you decide to become a Japanese major?
I had an interest in anime that, during high school, developed into an interest in traditional Japanese arts, especially kimono. From there it was a natural progression to learning the language and studying abroad in Kyoto.
How did being a JPN major affect your time at Wellesley?
I pretty much ended up structuring my entire Wellesley experience around studying abroad in Kyoto, so I would say it was pretty important. As a Japanese major I made friends that I am still close with and experienced many on-campus events (such as Yuki Matsuri) that I otherwise would not have thought to join.
How has majoring in Japanese influenced your life after Wellesley?
If I had not been a Japanese major I certainly would not be living in Japan, working as a costumer on the Japan leg of Cirque du Soleil’s ‘OVO’. The language skills I learned made it possible for me to live and attend fashion design school here. I do not know where I would have ended up if I had not been a Japanese major but it certainly would not have been here!