"Studying East Asian Studies opened my world in ways I never expected. Learning Chinese challenged me to think differently, not just about language but about culture, hi tory, and communication. Exploring East Asian philosophies, politics, and traditions gave me new perspectives on global connections I never dreamed of prior to college. Studying abroad in China deepened this sense of discovery, immersing me in a world both new and fascinating. Traveling and meeting people from different backgrounds made every experience feel like an adventure, whether through literature, conversations, or exploring unfamiliar places. It made me want to continue forging relationships across cultures and pursue a career as a diplomat."
Hosted by JPN 245 - Japanese Popular Culture: Manga, Anime, and So Much More!
Join the JPN 245 class for a movie screening of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind!
In a post-apocalyptic world overrun by toxic jungles and giant insects, Nausicaä, the brave princess of the Valley of the Wind, seeks to understand nature rather than destroy it. When the Tolmekian Empire threatens to use an ancient bioweapon, she must prevent war and uncover the jungle’s secrets to save humanity.
Join us to experience this Studio Ghibli classic! Experience breathtaking animation, a powerful story, and a heroine ahead of her time. Don’t miss out!
Sponsored by the Taiwan BEST Grant
The Chinese Language Program held a Lantern Festival celebration on February 14th, 2025. Traditionally, people celebrate the festival by holding a lantern and eating tang yuan (glutinous rice balls). Students participated in a variety of fun activities, including decorating paper lanterns, playing ping pong, picking up M&Ms with chopsticks, and competing in 3-legged races. Tang yuan was cooked on site and everyone enjoyed the rice balls with black sesame paste and peanut butter.
Traditional Japanese Storytelling in English!
Join us on Thursday, February 20th for a day of laughter and learning with the English Rakugo Association. Rakugo is a traditional form of Japanese comedic storytelling, performed while seated on stage with only a folding fan and a hand towel as props. This time, we will be performing Rakugo in English right here in Tucson!
📅 Date: Thursday, February 20th
🛠️ Workshop: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM 📍 Main Library Room 112
🎭 Performance: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM 📍 Manuel Pacheco Integrated Learning Center Room 140
Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the humor and tradition of Japanese storytelling.
Sign up for the workshop and RSVP for the performance today!
Hosted by the Chinese Language Program
The Chinese Language Program held a Mahjong party on January 29th, 2025, to celebrate the Year of the Snake. More than 80 students from Chinese language classes, TAs, and instructors participated in the event. Students played Mahjong and Gomoku games while snacking on sunflower seeds, which are traditional Chinese snacks. Most of the students learned to play these games for the first time. They also enjoyed a feast of traditional Chinese food, including spring rolls and kung-pao chicken. The Taiwan BEST grant and EAS sponsored this event. We thank the instructors and TAs for their hard work and contributions. It was great fun!
Humanities in particular Italian Language helped me get selected for a business trip to Milan in my first year of work, interacting with clients and traveling abroad on my own. I have kept involved in my Italian-American heritage in participating in the Italian American Future Leaders Conference.
At my company we are constantly adapting to other cultures and also relying on context to get the true intent of the message. Humanities has prepared me for this by not taking the translation literally but to have supporting evidence and context to understand in its entirety.
Open to the U of A Community!
Sponsored by Huayu BEST Funding from the Taipei Economic & Culture Office, Los Angeles
The Department of East Asian Studies’ Chinese Language Program invites you to join the Lantern Festival celebration and immerse yourself in Chinese culture through a series of
exciting activities on Friday, February 14th, from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m.! Enjoy eating glutinous rice balls (汤圆), painting colorful lanterns (灯笼), playing Chinese whisper games, and competing in ping pong. This is a perfect opportunity to practice your Chinese communication skills in a fun and interactive environment with your peers while learning about the unique food traditions of the Chinese Lantern Festival
Experience the Rich Cultures and Traditions of East Asia!
Join the Department of East Asian Studies and the Center for East Asian Studies on Wednesday, February 12th, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. to celebrate the languages and cultures of East Asia! This event is free and open to the public and will feature fun cultural activities and live performances, including:
Connect with our community and learn more about our classes, major, minor, and study abroad opportunities! If you're interested in studying at East Asian Studies, please get in touch with Dr. Camp at eas-advising@arizona.edu.
Discover Chinese Culture Through Food and Games!
Sponsored by Huayu BEST Funding from the Taipei Economic & Culture Office, Los Angeles
The Department of East Asian Studies’ Chinese Language Program invites you to an engaging celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year. Join us for a lively afternoon of Mahjong (⿇将), Gomoku (五⼦棋), and delicious Chinese cuisine! Through these interactive activities, you'll gain insights into Chinese leisure culture, learn New Year-specific vocabulary, and have playful language practices—all while experiencing the joyful atmosphere of a traditional Chinese New Year. No prior experience is required; we will provide easy-to-follow instructions for the games.
