Lillian Paulitz’s passion for Japanese culture began at age 12 through anime and soon expanded into a love for Japanese cuisine and art. Years later, that interest became reality when the Florida Gulf Coast University Honors College senior received a Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grant, allowing her to attend J.F. Oberlin International University in Tokyo.

While abroad, Paulitz strengthened her academic focus by taking intensive courses in Japanese language, gender studies, and Japanese anime and pop culture. She also explored traditional art forms such as ceramics, gaining techniques that add to her “toolbox” for providing more forms of art therapy in the future.

The experience extended far beyond the classroom. Paulitz immersed herself in daily life in Tokyo, connected with classmates from around the world, and traveled throughout Japan, where she discovered a quiet, hidden shrine along the famed Senbon Torii trail in Kyoto that became one of her favorite memories.

Her time overseas also deepened her perspective on the importance of mental health services, reinforcing her commitment to supporting others through therapy.

Receiving the Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grant marked a turning point for Paulitz after years of pursuing opportunities to study internationally. The funding not only helped make her long-held goal possible but also equipped her with the cultural insight, academic growth, and professional clarity to move forward with confidence in her career path.

Phi Kappa Phi is currently accepting applications for its Study Abroad Grants. Seventy-five $1,000 grants are awarded each year to members and non-members. Will you be the next recipient? The deadline to apply is March 15. Learn more at www.phikappaphi.org/studyabroad.