Hello. My name is Jon, but my students at Chapman University call me professor and my online students in China call me MJ. I was born in Japan but grew up in the states. I am a recent PhD graduate from Chapman University here in Orange, California. I have lived and taught in USA as well as Japan, Korea, and China. I enjoy both studying and teaching. I also like to read and play music and watch movies in my spare time. I especially love the beaches of Southern California.
As a reporter, teacher, and project specialist I have taught, interviewed, assessed, and learned what it takes to be a good team member. I enjoy studying other languages and cultures and have an unusually large collection of Superman comics. The class I teach at Chapman is about sociology and superheroes – race, ethnicity and identity. I also enjoy reading fantasy and biography.
I like working with foreign language learners because I believe in building bridges toward the future. I often tell my students that English is no better than any other language. There is just more opportunity to use it. I see English as a tool, not a language of privilege. It's not my language. It's anyone's language who wants to learn it. I want my students to have access to greater opportunities professionally, academically, and socially. If I can help my students reach their goals, I consider my job a success. If I can help even one student reach their future goals, I will consider my job a success as teaching continues to be a noble profession. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity.