A Japanese Student’s Journey: Graduate School, the LA Dodgers, and the 2024 World Series Run
Attending graduate school in the United States is an exciting but challenging experience for international students. Japanese student Akari Yoshimura ‘25 has engaged in a journey of self-discovery and professional growth in the sports industry. Akari moved to Los Angeles, to pursue a master’s degree at the University of San Francisco (USF), gaining insight into the American sports industry and working for the 2024 World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers in a once-in-a-lifetime postseason run.
Experiencing Differences Between U.S. and Japanese Sports Culture
Sports are treated differently in Japan and the US, Akari explains. In Japan, fans actively participate in the game atmosphere—waving flags, singing team songs, and performing coordinated movements. This collective energy fosters a sense of unity and makes fans feel like part of the experience. In the U.S., however, sports events focus more on creating a large-scale spectacle. Elaborate pregame shows, lighting displays, and high-energy music transform each game into a theatrical event. “In the U.S., it’s more about delivering a comprehensive entertainment package,” the student says. Experiencing these differences firsthand was eye-opening and helped broaden her understanding of how sports can be tailored for different audiences.
When choosing a graduate program, USF stood out for its practical focus and strong alumni network. “The requirement to complete an internship was especially appealing to me as an international student,” Akari shared. The program also offered resources and support to help her adjust to the unique structure of the American job market. Akari found that in the US, she was able to be more selective in employment experiences than in Japan, and think deeply about her strengths and interests, which helped her develop clear career goals. Akari aspires to leverage her work experience and the knowledge gained at USF to bridge the Japanese and American sports industries of Japan. Compared to the US’s developed sports landscape, Japan still encounters low levels of public interest in the sports industry. Akari identifies that sports marketing and sponsorships can be developed in Japan to grow the business side of sports, leading to the expansion of the Japanese market and subsequent supported growth of American sports internationally.
Navigating Internships and Finding the Dodgers
Finding opportunities in the U.S. sports industry requires persistence. Platforms like LinkedIn and Teamwork Online became essential tools, along with help from classmates who shared job listings. The skills and support Akari has received as an international student at USF, from writing effective resumes to navigating the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) process were critical in helping her secure internships and eventually a role with the LA Dodgers.
Joining the LA Dodgers’ team gave Akari an insider’s view of how sports organizations operate in the U.S., especially during high-stakes periods like the MLB postseason. Joining the Dodgers organization just months after Shohei Ohtani’s historic signing, Akari’s skills as a native Japanese speaker were in high demand. Her professionalism and consistent ability to exceed expectations, however, have also earned her several promotions within the team. Akari saw firsthand how Ohtani’s popularity fueled a growing fanbase for U.S. baseball in Japan. “It’s incredible how globalization is shaping the sports industry,” she noted. “During Game 5 of the NLDS, while 7.5 million viewers tuned in from the U.S., about 13 million watched from Japan.”
Behind the Scenes of the 2024 Postseason
Working with the LA Dodgers during their 2024 World Series run was an unforgettable experience. The energy at the stadium was electric, with nearly every game sold out. “Being part of such a special environment was exciting, but I knew I had to stay focused on my role,” she explained. Her responsibilities involved customer service in the merchandise store, ensuring fans had a memorable experience.
One of the most valuable lessons came from observing how merchandise offerings adapted to the unpredictable nature of postseason baseball. “Inventory had to shift quickly based on game outcomes, which gave me insights into how dynamic sports marketing can be,” they said.
Lessons to Carry Back to Japan
Akari’s journey is a testament to the power of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, of identifying and refining skills that will shape her career. One of those skills developed was networking. “In Japan, I had never even heard of informational interviews,” she admits. But in the U.S., she learned how building connections could open doors and offer fresh perspectives. This skill has become a key takeaway she plans to bring back to Japan. “Building connections isn’t just about career advancement; it’s a way to broaden your horizons and create new opportunities,” she shared.
Reflecting on her journey, Akari feels grateful for the experiences that helped her grow personally and professionally. “Working in the U.S. has shown me the importance of self-awareness and decision-making,” she said. “I’ve also seen how sports can be a global bridge, connecting people across countries and cultures.”
As the Dodgers closed an epic 2024 with a World Series win, Akari is excited to see where her career in sports will take her next. Whether she remains in the U.S. or returns to Japan, she is confident that the lessons learned at USF and the Dodgers will serve her well. “No matter where I go, I’ll carry the importance of building connections and embracing new opportunities.”