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CHASS Student of the Month – January 2011

Jane Kohan

Photo of Jane Kohan

  • Home Town: Tomsk, Russia
  • Class: Senior
  • Major(s):
    • International Studies (East Asia Concentration)
    • Business Administration (Marketing Concentration)
  • Sample Courses:
    • German Lyric Poetry
    • International Marketing
    • Advanced Japanese I & II
  • Activities:
    • Alexander Hamilton Scholar
    • Study Abroad, Hiroshima, Japan: 3/08-8/08
    • Clear Image (Raleigh, NC): International Business Development and Marketing Intern
    • NCSU German Club
    • Executive VP, NCSU Chapter of American Marketing Association
    • Program Ambassador, NCSU Study Abroad
    • Co-founder and Secretary, Nihongo Club
    • SPCA of Wake County Volunteer
    • HopeLine Crisis Line and Reassurance Calls Volunteer: 8/09-8/10
  • Honors:
    • Dean’s List: 2006-10
    • National Society of Collegiate Scholars
    • HSU Exchange Student Scholarship Recipient
  • Postgraduate Plans: Probably an MBA degree.
  • Career Goals: Marketing research in the green tech industry.

What do you enjoy most about CHASS?

I like that the people are so open-minded. There is also an emphasis on international affairs, which is so important in today’s world. I knew CHASS would educate me about international politics and cultural studies. Additionally, I feel a sense of community through clubs, events and presentations.

Have there been any individuals who have been especially helpful to you?

Dr. Helga Braunbeck and Michelle Koehler in the Hamilton Scholars program have offered wonderful guidance, and many of my language professors have been amazing as well: Dr. Ruth Gross, Dr. John Mertz, and Professor Keiko Ueda. My language courses in Japanese and German, as well as my course in Chinese Literature, were wonderful. It is clear that the instructors love what they are doing, and they make it fun for the students.

How did your study abroad support your studies at NC State?

I studied at Hiroshima Shudo University in Hiroshimo, Japan from March through August 2008, learning about Japanese language, culture, society, economics and religion. It really expanded my horizons; dorming with other international students helped bring a non-American perspective to global events, such as the Chinese earthquake that occurred while I was in Japan. I feel I have more cultural sensitivity, and an increased appreciation for being a citizen of the United States, which is truly very diverse and unique.

What advice would you give incoming students?

Get involved with events on campus. You can find yourself inspired listening to others speak about their ideas or research. There are also so many courses to choose from, so take your time to explore your interests.


Nominate a student for CHASS Student of the Month.