Staff

Kumi Obayashi-Ward

Program Coordinator & Academic Advisor

Kumi Obayashi-Ward’s career at UC San Diego started in July 2010 as a program representative for the International Programs at UC San Diego Extension. She then moved to the Japanese Studies Program in April 2014, and has been serving the students, faculty, and community as the program coordinator and academic advisor.

In addition to academic advising and faculty assistance, she also manages scheduling JAPN courses, Japanese Studies major/minor curriculum updates, outreach and program events, website and social media management, TA-recruitment and payroll, and the Joseph Naiman Graduate Fellowship in Japanese Studies.

Prior to relocating to San Diego, she worked as a Head Teacher (教務主任) at one of AEON English language schools in Japan for over five years. She has found her purpose in education and been very passionate about spreading the love and importance of foreign-language acquisition and cultural competence.

Seeing students from all backgrounds achieve their academic and personal goals through our programs and blossom into well-rounded, globally minded citizens brings her so much joy. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, baking, and traveling.

UC San Diego Undergraduate Students:

All the undergraduate students must submit their inquiries via the Virtual Advising Center (VAC). Do not send your questions via email as they will not be answered.

To schedule a one-on-one Zoom advising appointment, please email at japan@ucsd.edu with your name, PID, available days and times, and your reason for requesting an appointment (i.e. major/minor requirements, study abroad, JAPN placement, etc.). 

All others: 

Please email your questions to japan@ucsd.edu with your full name and contact information. I will respond to you within 5 business days.

Academic Advising Hours:
Monday through Thursday, 9:00-11:00am PST (By Appointment Only)

Office Location:
NTPLLN  Ridge Walk Academic Complex  A&H Bldg. Room 660