JAPN 1010

Definitely not an easy class, but worth it if you're seriously passionate about learning Japanese. And I really mean SERIOUSLY passionate, this course moves incredibly fast and if you put in the work you'll improve quickly... but you have to put in the work. And that work consists of multiple hours a day, every day. It was easily the hardest class I took my first year, but I don't regret taking it. I do regret not testing out of the foreign language requirement (lowkey the only reason I'm continuing with japanese) before coming to uva though. But both Professor Marshall and Professor Sato are incredibly caring and kind, they really want you to succeed. However, that also includes strict rules about deadlines/work quality, so you can't really get through this course doing anything halfway. #tCFS24

Japanese is not an easy language to study, but I really think UVA's Japanese program is one of the best in the country after talking with various students taking it at different colleges. The class moves VERY fast and was definitely overwhelming. Just when you feel like you start to grasp a lesson's grammar concepts, you'll have a test and then move on. However, because of the regular class schedules posted 1-2 weeks in advance, it's easy to work ahead and stay on top of everything bc every assignment is posted in one place. Do not skip class unless you REALLYY need to because you won't be allowed to make up quizzes, and the department really does not care why you didn't turn in an assignment so you'll never get full credit if it's late. However, Marshall-Sensei is very kind and makes sure that all students update her on how they think they're doing in the class. VERY IMPORTANT: make sure you're comfortable with hiragana (at the minimum) before the class even starts. This will make it a lot easier bc then you're not struggling with the easiest part (reading). This class is a lot of work, but the content is very thorough and you will come out of it feeling like you've learned a lot.

This class takes an extreme amount of work. Japanese has 3 alphabets (but if you are interested you probably already know this) and you have to master the first 2 within a couple weeks. If you have no previous experience with written Japanese this will probably be really difficult for you. Marshall sensei is really nice and wants you to do well but doesn't really like it when you come underprepared for class. YOU MUST come prepared for class (know vocab, already practiced grammar structures) because the class is so small and you will get called on. Overall, if you don't have a high motivation or strong reason for wanting to learn Japanese, you will really struggle with this class and it will basically consume your life. There is homework due every day in addition to class everyday and a test every 4 weeks (every 2 lessons). Honestly, I put way more time and effort just to finish homework and to prepare for class than I did for my major classes.

Marshall is an ABSOLUTE ANGEL -- the sweetest woman, basically my mom at UVA. This is the best organization I've ever seen in a course. You always know when assignments are due, you always know what you're doing each day. There are a lot of quizzes, but it makes sure you're keeping up with the day to day work. A lovely class that I'd recommend to anyone interested in learning an East Asian language.