Karen Kitasato is a first-year student at the University of Michigan studying pre-pharmacy with a deep interest in the relationship between food, memory, and culture. Born and raised in Aurora, Colorado, she grew up closely connected to Japanese traditions and spends time in Japan nearly every summer. Her experiences navigating cultural identity in both American and Japanese contexts shape her perspective on food as more than sustenance – as something that carries meaning, memory, and care. Karen is especially drawn to Japanese and Korean cuisine, and she finds that food often opens conversations that words alone can’t. Through her writing, she explores sensory moments that build connection across generations and borders. Looking ahead, Karen hopes to keep telling stories that honor her roots while remaining curious about the cultures, flavors, and histories that continue to shape who she is.