Japanese Yenching Scholar, Mio Sato, is a student of many talents and backgrounds. She is a double graduate in China Studies from Peking University’s Yenching Academy, and a graduate from the School of Culture, Media and Society at Waseda University. Having previously studied in Korea and China through exchange programs, Mio holds a deep interest in Asian cultures. Her remarkable language skills speak to this passion: Apart from her native tongue of Japanese, Mio is also fluent in Korean, Chinese, and English.
As an award-winning jazz singer, Mio previously led a choir comprised of both Japanese and Chinese singers to promote Sino-Japanese relationships. This choir once had the opportunity to perform for the Japanese ambassador. She’s also organized a “Free Hugs” event with the purpose of healing Sino-Japanese tensions through friendship. Additionally, Mio holds a passion for social work. During the Summer Program she was particularly inspired by lectures on social entrepreneurship and helping the underprivileged.
“I want to make a community in which people always pay attention to people who are suffering,” said Mio.
Mio’s future plans are twofold. She hopes to promote cultural exchange between East Asian countries through cultural and educational means. At the same time, Mio hopes to continue pursuing her musical career as a jazz vocalist. Perhaps these two passions can come together one day, working towards a peaceful East Asia.