Alumni Story | Luna Terauchi
“I was offered a position to work after graduation”
Luna Terauchi is a Psychology major at the University of Michigan. Following her Hospitality internship in Tokyo, Luna sat down to reflect on the experience, the lessons learnt, and how she has equipped herself for the future.
Written by Luna Terauchi
In the beginning of my hospitality internship, my main concerns were my Japanese speaking skills and whether or not I would fit in. Although I grew up speaking Japanese, I was never formally trained on how to use the professional language.
This made me timid to speak in the workplace, unable to convey my thoughts the way I wanted to. However, I soon realized that this internal constraint was disabling me from making the most of my international internship. I forced myself to speak up and use the Japanese vocabulary I had, even if it meant to speak awkwardly at times. This allowed me to better connect with my coworkers and work more comfortably as my authentic self.
“I worked alongside my coworkers, applying my newly acquired skills to provide lucrative work.”
I asked questions without hesitation and observed everyone’s working habits. After continuing this for a few weeks, I stopped feeling like an intern, but a knowledgeable employee. I worked alongside my coworkers, applying my newly acquired skills to provide lucrative work.
“This offer gave me hope and realization that hard work does pay off.”
At the end of my internship, I was offered a position to work after graduation.
This offer gave me hope and realization that hard work does pay off. It may be difficult at first, always struggling to produce your best work, but patience and diligence will carry you through.
“Don’t be afraid to speak up or ask for help.”
For future participants, I advise you to be yourself! Don’t be afraid to speak up or ask for help. Your company will not expect you to be perfect at your work right away. They understand that you are an intern and it takes time, so as long as you show your dedication through your active work ethic, you will succeed. Hard times will come, but stay positive and open-minded to all the global knowledge you will gain!
Currently, I am in my last year at the University of Michigan studying Psychology. I will be working as a Student Manager at Bert’s Cafe in our Undergraduate Library and Co-President for a global health organization on campus.
If you are inspired by Luna’s Tokyo story and want to apply for a CRCC Asia Internship Program, you can find our quick and easy Application Form here.
