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Gavin Thomas
Japanese and International Business
Spring 2027
Outreach Activities
Language Exchange
During my time at Clemson, I made sure to use Japanese at every opportunity that presented itself. This involved forming close relationships with Japanese exchange students and Japanese families in the local area. For example, because the exchange students didn’t have the means to drive, they weren’t able to go anywhere off campus. To help them broaden their view of the Carolinas, we took road trips to local towns and cities like Greenville, Brevard, and Charlotte. Some of my closest friends to this day come from the outreach that Clemson provided.
Dinner with the Hayami Family
Clemson Exchange Students
Rikkyo Exchange Students
Volunteer and Extracurriculars
Another way that I expanded my knowledge of Japanese culture and language was through volunteer opportunities with the Japanese American Association of South Carolina. These experiences provided chances to meet and speak with Japanese people residing in SC. One of my fondest memories is when I volunteered at a bento box stand for the annual Bon Dance Festival held in Greenville, SC. It was here that I had my first experience using Japanese as an “employee” (店員), requiring honorifics and customary gestures to treat customers with the respect that is expected in a Japanese environment.
Bon Dance Festival
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