Hey Amherst! I'm Tetsuya
First-year at Amherst diving into Computer Science and Political Science (yes, I love both coding and policy debates!). With experience at over 12 schools across three countries, I've learned that the best solutions come from blending different perspectives - something I want to bring to student government.
My journey into leadership started in high school when I realized our campus needed better sustainability programs. What began as a small composting initiative grew into leading the CSW Sustainability Committee and eventually coordinating climate action for 149 schools across 37 states. The key lesson? Real change happens when you listen first and build solutions together.
At Amherst, you'll find me wearing many hats: snapping photos for Communications, brainstorming tech solutions at Idea 2 Innovation, or helping peers at the Learning and Teaching Commons (aka. writing center). Each role has shown me different parts of our campus life and where we can make meaningful improvements.
What Guides Me
These aren't just buzzwords - they're principles I live by and want to bring to the Senate:
Practical Sustainability
From compost systems to energy policies, I focus on changes that actually work in real campus life - not just theory.
Everyone's Voice Matters
Having moved between cultures, I know how easily perspectives get missed. I'll actively seek out unheard voices.
Tech-Savvy Solutions
Why waste time on paperwork? Let's use digital tools to make student government more efficient and accessible.
Bridge Builder
Some of my best projects came from unlikely collaborations - like athletes and artists teaming up for sustainability.
Beyond the Resume
When I'm not in class or meetings, you'll probably find me:
- Capturing campus life through my camera lens (check out my work around Amherst!)
- Practicing my badminton serve (I'm the treasurer for our club team)
- Debating random topics with friends (I swear it's fun)
- Trying to find a large monitor where I can study!
Bubble-Tea Trip
Badminton Team
Organizing a badminton tournament with Williams and Umass Amherst.
First time seeing US Firefighter
Lost at Debate Tournament
Hitting the wall is hard, but the only place is to go up
First BBQ in the US
College Bound Photo with Friends
First win in Hackathon
Photographing Train
Fun Facts About Me
- I have attended more than 12 schools in 3 different countries!!!
- I am a photographer (you may have seen my works featured in the Amherst instagram or elsewhere)
- I once organized a campus-wide "trash audit" that changed our recycling program
- Favorite Food/Drink: Bubble Tea. In fact, I wrote an whole college essay about bubble tea!
- I used to play ice hockey in elementary and middle school!
- I am a drama queen, I tend to exaggerate different situations!
- I am a cry baby. I used to cry everytime I lost at MUN. But I never give up!
Let's Make Amherst Even Better
I'm running because I genuinely believe we can create positive changes that make student life better. But I can't do it alone - I want to hear your ideas and concerns!
Share Your Thoughts Learn About My Platform