SOTARO '23

SOTARO '23
Mary Roetger

Hometown: Osaka, Japan

Q. How and when did you start playing the piano? What musical opportunities have you been involved in at Brewster and how have the faculty supported your interest? 

A. When I was 3 years old, I started playing piano in music school. But at the age of 12, I'm playing for myself. At Brewster, I love Coffee House the most. For me, as I am not good at speaking English well, the Coffee House was the best place to express myself. I'm very grateful to the art faculty for setting up the place. 

Q. Was coming to Brewster your first time living away from home? What was the transition like, and how did people at Brewster help in your transition? 

A. No, I had been to summer school sometimes before coming to Brewster. When I went to Brewster by myself, I couldn't use my cell phone. So I was struggling to meet the school bus driver, but the transportation teacher helped me to go smoothly.

Q. What is your favorite class and why? 

A. Besides the music class, I like English class. Last year I took ESL (English second language), and my ESL class was different from normal English classes that native English speakers are taking. My ESL teachers were very helpful and supportive, and they made me confident. This year, I am taking a normal English class with native English speakers, but I still like to do my best in the class!

Q. What do you like most about dorm life? 

A. I love spending time with my friends in the dorm. Especially on Friday and Saturday night, we can hang out longer than usual! Talking with friends is not only fun but also very good for improving my English skills too.

Q. Tell us about one of your favorite projects you have done for class. Why did you enjoy it, and what did you learn?

A. My favorite project last year was making my own podcast in ESL class. I like speaking and creative projects, so it was really fun to record. Actually, I struggled recording with the application that my computer had from the beginning, but my teacher, Ms.Davis, helped me. Thanks to that, I finished making it, and also cooperated and collaborated with my classmates.