Intensive trip forges strong bonds for Water in the West team
Students are also quickly learning about the challenges of water supply in the western U.S.
May 26, 2023
China, with five thousand years of civilization, more than a billion people, and a fast-growing economy, and Japan, with its unparalleled economic success, demand attention from the world. The East Asian Studies (EAS) program balances a liberal arts and professional approach to understanding the economic potential, rich cultural resources, and the basic need for intercultural relationships with China and Japan. Students who minor in EAS gain intercultural knowledge and competence that benefits them in this increasingly globalized world.
EAS Coordinator
Professor Kin Ma
B-4-204 Mackinac Hall
Phone: (616) 331-3351
Email: m[email protected]
The East Asian Studies faculty recognize the need for our students, to be well versed in cultures other than their own. Faculty in the programs offer cross-cultural understanding and intercultural communication perspectives, allowing students to become well-rounded and well-grounded in their knowledge of China and East Asia as they find their niche in a demographically and culturally diverse society and an increasingly global economy.
Students study a variety of subjects, including:
EAS can be instrumental for a variety of careers, including those in:
The East Asian Studies program explores the languages, cultures, histories, and socioeconomic conditions of China and Japan, and recognizes the rich and complex traditions and historical contributions of these countries while acknowledging the essential roles they play in the world today. The EAS minor is designed for students who are interested in Chinese and Japanese cultures and who see fluency in the languages of these two countries as instrumental for their future careers in this region and beyond. Students majoring in such fields as business, communications, English, history, international relations, philosophy, and political science, among others, will find that the EAS minor provides a unique perspective on these two dynamic countries and is a valued complement to their major program.
Students are also encouraged to participate in the activities of local Asian associations, including the Chinese Association of West Michigan, the Asian-American Association, Japan-America Society of West Michigan, and also get involved in on-campus student groups such as the Asian Student Union (ASU), Japan Cultural Association, and the International Student Organization (ISO). Members of community organizations and businesses are also invited to take courses and participate in program activities.
Students are also quickly learning about the challenges of water supply in the western U.S.
May 26, 2023
President Philomena V. Mantella has selected two faculty members as new Presidential Fellows to engage with university leadership on various initiatives.
May 25, 2023
Kimberly McKee will teach each at Sogang University in Seoul, South Korea.
May 25, 2023
Traverse City's natural resources were highlighted during a week of activities as students studied the area's water issues.
May 24, 2023
21 students are headed on a four-week trip to explore the impact of water with stops in Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico.
May 22, 2023