Learning and Thriving 6,000 Miles From Home: An International Student’s Journey
Getting involved in the local community deepens a sense of belonging for Ayako Ogawa ’28, seen here in downtown Carlisle.
Tokyo native Ayako Ogawa ’28 wasn’t sure what to expect when she traveled from Japan to the U.S. to attend college, but she found a warm and welcoming environment and an international campus that makes her feel connected to her culture even though she’s far from home. She’s a biochemistry & molecular biology major who’s also pursuing a health-studies certificate and a minor in music, and she’s also very involved on and off campus, through the Dickinson Orchestra, Flute Ensemble, Center for Civic Learning & Action and Pre-Health Society. Ayako is also an International Admissions Ambassador and a watershed coordinator for ALLARM, which monitors local waterways and teaches community members to do the same.
Student Snapshot: Ayako Ogawa ’28
Hometown:
Tokyo.
High school:
Miss Hall’s School.
Major:
Biochemistry & molecular biology, with a health-studies certificate and a minor in music.
On choosing Dickinson:
I chose Dickinson for its beautiful campus and close-knit community. I’ve always wanted a liberal-arts college where I can explore different subjects, get involved in the community, and stay active in clubs and events. Coming from a small high school, the transition to a larger college was challenging, but Dickinson’s supportive atmosphere made it easy to adjust to a new environment.
Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:
One of the best things about Dickinson is its strong support and care for international students. I came here with concerns about how inclusive and supportive it would be for international students, but my concerns quickly faded. The college hosts amazing cultural events throughout the year that celebrate traditions from around the world. Shout out to Nidia and Melodie! I feel connected to my culture even when I am far from home, and I’ve also learned so much about other cultures.
Best thing about my major:
The best thing about my major is getting to meet so many faculty members who have worked on fascinating research. It is always exciting to hear about the different areas they are exploring—from molecular biology to field biology and beyond. Their passion for their research inspires me to think about my future in science and motivates me to develop my own interests.
Favorite class/learning experience:
Listening Across Cultures, taught by Associate Professor of Music Ellen Gray. I am glad I stepped into a class completely outside my major, because it gave me a whole new perspective. The class is not only lectures, but also uses a variety of hands-on resources—for example, the Dickinson Archives, the Trout Gallery and classes with guest speakers. Through these interactive experiences, I learned the importance of understanding the history of Carlisle and deepened my understanding of my local community and broader cultural perspectives from both music and anthropological approaches.
Favorite professor:
Visiting Lecturer in Chemistry Christine O’Neill (General Chemistry 131, 132). She is always open to questions—whether about classwork or not. She guided me throughout my first year at Dickinson and encouraged me to keep trying even when things don’t go as planned.
About my internship:
This past summer, I started working at ALLARM. I was introduced to many new experiences. I learned how to communicate with people with different levels of background knowledge by visiting a summer camp to teach kids how human activities affect watersheds and by working with monitoring volunteers to emphasize the importance of data interpretation. I also participated in water sampling at LeTort Spring Run and learned how to use lab equipment to analyze these samples. I am excited to continue working at ALLARM this semester and develop my public-speaking and lab skills.
Clubs and organizations:
Dickinson Orchestra, Flute Ensemble, ALLARM (watershed coordinator), International Admissions Ambassador, Supportive Partnerships for Youth (after-school tutor), Alpha Lambda Delta and Pre-Health Society.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Presidential Scholarship, Bullard Music Scholarship and Dean’s List.
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Published November 7, 2025