Member Highlight: Cyrus Konstantinakos

Cyrus (right) with students at Showa Boston

How long have you been a member of the Japan Society of Boston?

I've been a member for just a year, though I wish I had joined sooner.

What drew you to JSB? 

After a working for about a decade in other fields, I recently returned to teaching Japanese language and ESL—mainly to Japanese students in study-abroad programs—which led me straight to JSB.

How would you describe yourself and what you're passionate about? 

My experience in the JET Program inspired me to specialize in intercultural learning and development, a field that has become increasingly crucial for Japan. With the introduction of blue-collar visas in 2019, sectors such as retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture are becoming increasingly diversified. As intercultural competence becomes an essential skill in Japan, the country is relying on study abroad programs to cultivate it among younger generations. I am passionate about supporting these efforts by working with Japanese study-abroad students in the Boston area.

Despite clear standards for language study, many study-abroad programs lack effective strategies to foster intercultural competence. This competence develops through ongoing, regular, and increasingly complex interactions—experiences that many students unfortunately miss. Last year, I presented my findings to JET alumni at the Japanese Consulate and at the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. I hope to present more and collaborate on these issues with other JSB members.

Some of Cyrus's students and staff at Showa Boston

Do you have a favorite event or program that you have participated in with JSB? 

My favorite so far is last year's Gakuensai; it was an excellent networking opportunity for students. I took members of Showa Boston's Teaching Japanese Club, and they connected with Boston-area students and JET Program alumni who have since come to our campus for activities like takoyaki, norimaki, and shiratama dango-making parties. A close second favorite was "Onigiri Bento with Miwa!", where my family and I enjoyed making a healthy dinner while socializing with other participants.

What about JSB sets it apart from other groups within the Boston area? 

JSB stands out as the central hub for anyone with a connection to Japan, offering a vibrant community for those of us who cherish and wish to maintain our ties to Japanese society and culture.

What would you say to somebody who is considering joining JSB? 

If you've lived in Japan and find your current path diverging from that experience, joining JSB can be a wonderful way to revisit and continue developing the part of you that thrived there. If you're considering it, that probably means it's time to join!

Thank you, Cyrus, for sharing your Japan journey!

Interested in becoming a JSB Member? Click here or reach out to info@japansocietyboston.org for more details.