This is Oliver (the one and only). And I am one of the few lucky students to be a part of the March 2025 trip across the world to Japan.
Some fun unexpected facts about me. I enjoy rock hunting. Not very long ago I took an interest in professional competitive eating. I really enjoy trying new foods, and if you couldn’t tell already I’m a big food guy and I love to eat and cook.
Origin stories of why I wanted to go to Japan. Since I can remember, Asian culture has been a part of my life. For birthdays, we would go to the Chinese buffet, or I would go to the theaters to watch Kung Fu Panda. Fast forward a couple of years, the Asia Mall in Eden Prairie opens. Then I do a project about cooking Korean corn dogs. So from this young age I developed an interest in traveling the world and learning how life is different in other places. So, when I heard that the school was taking a trip to Japan this year, I knew it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I had to try my best to get on the trip. I put a lot of effort into writing the application, and I must admit there was a little bribery. I’m so so grateful for this amazing chance I have to travel to Japan.