My name is Ji Min Park and I’m in grade 1. I’m in the faculty of Environmental and Information studies. Before coming to Keio University I graduated high school from the British School in Tokyo. I started playing volleyball since year 7, however at my school our volleyball season was short, so we only trained for three months every year.

As a sportswoman, sport, especially volleyball has helped me tremendously with my confidence and taught me how to build strong relationship with my teammates, developing trust and teamwork to achieve a common goal. Being able to share success and failure with fellow athletes is one of the best emotions I have experienced.

I decided to join the volleyball university team because I wanted to continue to improve my volleyball skills but also experience the hardships and dedication needed to be in the team. I always want to be involved in something that will allow me to grow as a better person, and I feel like joining this team will definitely do that. As for someone who isn’t use to the Japanese university custom I thought it would be an interesting experience.

After attending to several practices I can say with certainty that every session is a challenge! The practices are always testing not only my physical skills but mental skills. I’ve got a long way to improve, and in every practice I’ve been able to learn and get advises from the seniors and coaches, which I am so grateful for. It’s safe to say that these sessions are definitely not easy, but with the support that the team gives me I’m able to learn and have fun! I was given a warm welcome to the team and I’m truly thankful for my team mates who tried there best to get me settled in, despite having some language barrier.

My goal now is to most importantly master the basic techniques which I still have troubles with. I would really like to polish my digs and spikes. Also to have a smooth flow of rhythm and movement in volleyball. Since joining this club it requires me to use certain Japanese terms when training, so I wish to learn them well and be able to confidently use them during training.