Chris Marusich

Software Engineer in Seattle

Hello! I'm Chris Marusich. I'm a professional software engineer living in Seattle. In college, I majored in Japanese and Mathematics. I enjoy many things, including computers, coffee, language, and literature.

Learning a different language can be rewarding in and of itself, but it can also open doors to new opportunities. When I started learning Japanese in college, I did it "just for fun." I didn't expect it to be particularly useful. Little did I know that my Japanese language skills would actually prove to be a critical factor in helping me to land my very first job as a bilingual Japanese/English support engineer at a large technology company.

I wouldn't have gotten that first job if I hadn't learned Japanese. By landing that job, I was able to get my foot in the door in the tech industry. After a few years, with much self-learning and guidance from mentors, I eventually transitioned successfully into the role of software engineer in that same company. I've moved on from that company since then, but it's not an exaggeration to say that if I hadn't learned Japanese, I might not have become a software engineer at all. I don't use Japanese on the job any more, but I still enjoy it and use it frequently.

There are many good reasons to learn another language. The example above is just one. Even if you're thinking of learning another language "just for fun," like I was, you never know what kinds of opportunities it might unlock down the road!

Why Learn Japanese - Three Learners' Perspectives

Three Japanese learners will present three very different stories about why and how they have been learning Japanese. This session will be of interest to learners and educators alike.

This presentation will be available for on-demand viewing on December 2nd during Global CRED. Register for Global CRED below, it’s quick easy and free!