Two USSI Scholars Graduated from ICU This Summer-Myra
JICUF launched the United States Scholars Initiative (USSI) in 2018 to increase the number of degree-seeking undergraduate students from the US at ICU. For the last five years, we have aimed to recruit two US students with excellent academic standing and cover their full tuition for four years. The first two recipients graduated in the summer of 2023. This June, another two USSI scholars, Ms. Myra Lotus Shikimachi-Stickney and Ms. Julia Yamaguchi, completed their studies at ICU. We interviewed Myra and Julia about their memories at ICU and their future aspirations. This page features the interview with Myra. You can find Julia’s essay here.
JICUF: How was your time at ICU?
Myra: During my time at ICU, I was able to connect with my Japanese heritage and further my career goals. Four years ago, my decision to study at ICU stemmed from curiosity regarding the difference between university and everyday life in the United States versus Japan. As someone who grew up in a Japanese-English bilingual household, I always considered myself very in touch with my roots, but it wasn’t until I moved to Japan that I truly felt equally connected to both cultures. In particular, focusing on translation studies, which allowed me to hone my Japanese language skills, helped me develop a better understanding of the subtle cultural nuances between my two cultures.
My studies in translation while at ICU also allowed me to procure an internship with a luxury fashion house. I’d always planned on attending law school at some point after obtaining my bachelor’s degree, with the eventual goal of working as a lawyer within the fashion industry. Thus, the opportunity to intern within the fashion industry – an industry known for its exclusivity – while in Japan was extremely valuable. ICU’s location in Tokyo and my undergraduate studies in translation gave me the opportunity to get my first taste of working in the fashion industry.
JICUF: What were some of your best memories at ICU?
Myra: Most of my memories at ICU involve interpersonal relationships I formed with my peers and professors. I’d like to focus on one of these relationships that I feel transcended my time as a student at ICU. The interpersonal relationship I’d like to highlight is one with a professor and mentor. Professor Beverley Curran was a faculty member in the MCC department, whose work focused largely on translation studies. My decision to become an MCC major, an internship opportunity I decided to pursue, and even the topic of my senior thesis were all inspired by Professor Curran. From advice on adjusting to life in Japan to goals regarding my time at ICU and beyond, Professor Curran was always willing to lend an ear or a helping hand, not just as a professor, but also as a trusted mentor. She unfortunately passed away recently, but I treasure the bond I feel I developed with her, and all of her advice and encouragement continue to shape how I approach new opportunities.
JICUF: Looking back on your goals, what do you think you’ve accomplished?
Myra: During a JICUF interview during my first term, I mentioned my hope to participate in an exchange program, graduate with a major-minor, and spend time exploring Japan during my years at ICU. I’m pleased to share that I’ve accomplished all of these goals.
First, during my junior year at ICU, I had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program with the University of Massachusetts Amherst in Amherst, Massachusetts, United States. I was born and raised in the United States, and thus, this was less an opportunity to study ‘abroad’ and more an opportunity to experience American college life. However, this was my first time living on the East Coast of the United States, and it was interesting to experience the variances in both campus life (compared to ICU) and culture (compared to my hometown of Austin, Texas).
Second, I graduated from ICU with a major in Media, Communication and Culture (MCC) and a minor in Literature. While I am currently in the process of pursuing yet another degree, the persuasive and analytical skills (two major facets of communications/literature coursework) I developed as an undergraduate student have already proven very applicable to current coursework as well.
Finally, I was able to spend time off-campus exploring all that Japan has to offer. Despite having visited Japan throughout my childhood, my visits were typically only to regions where my relatives resided. As a full-time resident, though, I was able to expand on this and cross several items off my travel bucket list. From appreciating the autumn foliage in Hida-Takayama, Gifu, to feeling the ocean breeze in Ishigaki, Okinawa, traveling allowed me to develop a deeper appreciation for the nature and culture of Japan.
JICUF: Now that you’ve graduated from ICU, what’s next?
Myra: After graduating from ICU in July 2025, I returned to the United States to begin attending law school. I am currently a student at the Cardozo School of Law in Manhattan, New York, and eventually plan on pursuing a career in fashion law and intellectual property (IP) law. As I continue along this new academic path, I am confident that my Japanese heritage, as well as the skills and interpersonal relationships I developed as a student at ICU will continue to be an asset.
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to study at ICU thanks to JICUF’s USSI program. My time in Japan taught me more about my own cultural background and allowed me to have many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Thank you again to all of the individuals at JICUF who made this scholarship possible!
