By: Mika Matsumura, GVJCI Social Media and Marketing Intern
 | My name is Mika Matsumura and I am a second year at the California State University of Fullerton. My major is Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. 2020 was pretty crazy and unpredictable, but I would definitely say that interning at Gardena Valley JCI was the highlight of my year. I met so many amazing and humble people in the community while volunteering at the food distributions. In addition, I had the opportunity to be alongside the hardworking GVJCI staff and the other intern Taylor, my new friend. Writing the blogs and talking to new people allowed me to learn more about Japanese culture as well as the Nikkei community. |
I grew up in the North Torrance area and my parents got me involved in all sorts of activities such as SBY basketball, FOR basketball, Sansei baseball, Girl Scouts, Karate, FOR Volleyball, Obon Dancing at Gardena Buddhist Temple, Japanese School, and of course going to the annual Matsuri here at GVJCI. When I was little, I absolutely loved Matsuri with all of the fun carnival games and delicious food! Little did I know that I would be a Social Media and Marketing Intern here.
I have made so many unforgettable memories as an intern. Some of my favorite memories were when Taylor and I went to the actual site of GVJCI for either food box distributions or the restaurant drive through fundraiser. Of course, our weekly zoom meetings were great, but I loved seeing everyone in person even if we were wearing masks. Those interactions where I got to see people smiling with their eyes were the best. It was exciting to meet new people while volunteering! I enjoyed listening to their story of how they first heard about GVJCI, as well as their love for the community. The staff here are the friendliest people and they really treated me like family. Even though my internship is over, you will surely still see me volunteering! Thank you GVJCI for an incredible experience.
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