Adrian Morales

Adrian's experiences as an undergraduate at Florida International University developed his interests in gender roles and work-life balance in Japan. He is interested in nationalist pride and minority representation within a framework of supposed homogeneity that exemplifies the nihonjinron framework. He is also interested in the deep connection of companies, government offices, and schools across Japan in inculcating and narrowing school-work transitions in the country. Adrian first traveled to Japan as a study abroad student enrolled at Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto during the summer of 2016. Traveling around the country during that time helped him re-evaluate and focus on his academic and career goals. Since graduating, he has worked as an advisor for a Department of Education grant dedicated to improving pass rates for underprivileged and disadvantaged students at Miami Dade Community College. He has experience working in various departments within higher education, and looks forward to great experiences collaborating with Center for Japanese Studies faculty, students, and others in Ann Arbor.