Karolina Calderin Vargas

Wrapping it Up!

In the spring, I was uncertain about what summer would bring and unsure about my pursuits and goals. Reflecting on my time in Japan, I now recognize it as an incredible opportunity that has profoundly enlightened me. It has expanded my perspective on the vastness of the world and the myriad ways people live accordingContinue reading “Wrapping it Up!”

The Stories in the Media

I think one of the stories that I find has been coming up in my families is the stock market crash and the affect that a small change in Japans interest rate has affected the whole world stock market. This is funny since I just got back from Japan. Furthermore, I discovered that Japan ticketsContinue reading “The Stories in the Media”

This Summer in Japan

This summer has been filled with unforgettable highlights and profound discoveries, both in Japan and within myself. I’ve had the opportunity to explore a part of the world I never imagined visiting as a child. In Japan, I formed lasting friendships while discovering the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Nikko, Kyoto, and Kamakura, immersing myself deeplyContinue reading “This Summer in Japan”

Daily Spaces

At the beginning of my trip, I spent most of my time exploring the city of Tokyo. Now that I’m settling into my routine, I’m noticing all the little habits and routines that I’ve developed. I typically start my day with a trip to the 7/11 store, which is conveniently located around the corner fromContinue reading “Daily Spaces”

Culture Experience in Tokyo, Japan

Japan, has been one that I have been able to immerse myself in. Being in Japan for 6 weeks has helped me immerse myself in food, transportation, and etiquette. In Japan, it is necessary to always say “thank you” for the things that are being done for you. Furthermore, Japanese transportation culture is very uniqueContinue reading “Culture Experience in Tokyo, Japan”

Solidarity in Japan

Solidarity in Japan is one that I have found to be extremely beneficial. Especially, in terms of population and children comutes in Japan. Like any other country, Japan has its ups and downs, but one thing that I have noticed is that as a community they will do small things without seeking a reward back.Continue reading “Solidarity in Japan”

My Routine in Japan

My routine in Japan has been one that has taken me time to get use to and even currently I am trying to adjust the routine to fit my needs. In Japan, I am taking classes once a week on Wednesdays. Though I only have one day of class I still have to complete myContinue reading “My Routine in Japan”

Transition to Tokyo

Hello, This is my second blog post. I have finally arrived in Tokyo, Japan. The transition has been one that I have found to be smooth and fun. I have been nonstop traveling and visiting new places. In the last few days, I have gone to different cities/districts within Japan. So far, TikTok has notContinue reading “Transition to Tokyo”

Social inequality and my first culture shock in Japan

Hello! This is my third blog post. So far, the biggest structural inequality that I have noticed that seems to be very normal in Japan is the work culture. From my understanding and observations a lot of people are overworked. This is normal to many Japanese people. Some even stay at work after 11pm, leadingContinue reading “Social inequality and my first culture shock in Japan”

Hey, I am Karolina :)

Hello Blog, For my first blog post I will introduce myself and my summer experience. I am Karolina Calderin Vargas. I am a double major in Public Health and Human Development and Family Science with a minor in Anthropology. Born in Cuba I moved to the United States at the age of five. Since thenContinue reading “Hey, I am Karolina :)”