LAGUNA BEACH : Student to Become Teacher in Japan

Laguna Beach High School junior Eric Nelson, who leaves for Japan next month after winning the Tsuzuki International Scholarship, is undaunted about being so far from home for five months.

“I think I’ll have a good time,” Eric said. “I’m not really worried about being homesick or anything. . . . I’m just going to have fun.”

Eric is one of five U.S. students to win the scholarship, which he snagged after submitting a paper on the political, economical and cultural relationship between the two countries.

When he arrives in Fukuoka, Eric will be greeted with a variety of challenges. For example, his classes at Fukuoka Daiichi High School will be taught in Japanese, a language he tackled only last summer.

In addition, Eric will be expected to instruct Japanese students on English and the American culture three times a week.

Eric, 17, was recommended for the scholarship by Thurston Middle School language teacher David Dixon, who learned of the program while he was promoting a planned student exchange program in this district at a Japanese travel bureau.

Having taught Eric Spanish when he was a middle school student and introducing him to Japanese last summer, Dixon said Eric immediately sprang to mind.

“They were looking for someone outgoing, dynamic and who would not be quiet and shy, because that doesn’t help you at all with language,” Dixon said.

Eric scored high marks with his essay and his interview, Dixon added.

The Tsuzuki International Scholarship provides students a chance to study at Fukuoka Daiichi High School to promote deeper mutual understanding within the international community.

Scholarship winners receive air fare, tuition, books, uniforms, dorm accommodation and meals.

Eric’s mother, Michele Nelson, said her son will adhere to a strict schedule, which includes a 9:30 weeknight curfew and three hours of homework nightly.

“I feel like Japan is such a wonderful country, and so safe,” she said. “And what an experience for him.”