What are your fondest memories of Seisen International School? 

There are so many memories to choose from! I started Seisen in 1970 when I was in 7th grade. The campus was in Gotanda. Our classrooms were in a beautiful, historic mansion. I was surrounded by students, teachers, and staff from all over the world. It was indeed our own United Nations. During our free time, a small group of talented students played guitar and we'd sing folk songs. That was so cool. When I started 9th grade in 1972, we moved to the Yoga Campus. The building was so modern, but the warmth of Seisen remained. I was active in Student Council. Aside from the excellent classes, I have such great memories of participating in retreats at the Ofuna convent with my classmates and Sisters. I remember Sister Asuncion making breakfast for us. I loved attending mass. And we can’t forget bingo night, the Seisen Bazaar, the dances in the cafeteria, and prom. My life as a middle school and high school student was a combination of tranquility and excitement. I made lifelong friends. I have massive respect and appreciation for my teachers and administrators who taught us what it means to feel safe, protected, and be strong individuals. And I am also thankful to our librarian, the office staff, the lunch ladies, the custodial staff, and the school bus drivers. 

How did your education at Seisen influence your career path? 

Initially, I wanted to become a simultaneous interpreter at the U.N. But through a variety of life experiences, I realized what I really enjoyed was teaching. And I know the seed was planted at Seisen. I retired as an educator in 2021. I taught for 29 years. The bulk of my career was in the public school system in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia. The education I received at Seisen was like no other. Not only was it academically rigorous, but we also learned that we can be leaders and innovators. Hence, I wanted to share my knowledge and international background with my students in the United States. I would sometimes catch myself using the same phrase as Sister Asuncion. Talk about effective classroom management! I always emphasized diligence, fairness, and respect. My students and their parents absolutely loved what I brought to the classroom. I wanted my students to grow up to be global citizens. And when I see them excel as adults now, I am so glad I got to share my experience with them. 

What life advice would you give current students? 

My advice will be to never stop learning. Be curious. Be brave because we will not get intimidated. Challenge yourself. And reflect on your actions. No matter how old you get, there is always room to grow. Know that Seisen will prepare you for the world, with all its ups and downs. And even if you make mistakes, you can always bounce back and learn from your experience. We are taught to be confident without being conceited. We are extremely lucky to be part of the Seisen student body. 

 

About Nozomi

• Class of 1976
• Nationality: Japanese
• Student Council President

Here is a little fact I am proud of when I was Student Council President. In addition to all the other important duties related to student government, we established the team name, Seisen Phoenix. The student body voted from three choices. The name was announced around the end of the school year, right before the Class of ’76 graduated. So, I never got to call myself a Seisen Phoenix, but I sure was glad that all students who succeeded my class got to be a Phoenix! We also had our very first prom at The Hotel Okura in 1976. This involved much planning and important meetings with the Okura staff. The hotel representative was so kind and courteous to us! The beautiful Seisen Prom was a huge success.

Education

• Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
  • Master of Education, Elementary Education, May 12, 1995
• The University of San Diego, San Diego, CA
  • Completed graduate level course in peer coaching, Fall 1991- Spring 1992
• International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan
  • Bachelor of Arts, Communication, June 30, 1980

Career Highlights

• Gwinnett County Public Schools, Georgia, U.S.A.
  • Elementary School Educator, 1998-2021
• Seisen International School, Tokyo, Japan 
  • Faculty and Main Office, 1980-1987

Currently...

I am happily retired. My husband and I now live in Tucson, Arizona. I am a volunteer naturalist at Sabino Canyon, part of the Coronado National Forest. I teach children and adults all things nature about the stunning Sonoran Desert. I also stay active running, lifting weights., and I never stop learning!