Wednesday, January 28, 2009
I’m Sachiko,” I introduced myself to my group members as we got together for a class project.
“What?”
“My name is Sah-chee-ko.” I said, articulating my name.
At the end of the meeting, one of the group members reviewed each of our assignments.
“So, Steve, you’ll be working on Powerpoint. And, um...” She looked at me for a second, then said, “You can write a group analysis.”
This is a typical scene when I work on group projects with my classmates at the University. Usually people don’t get my name when they hear it for the first time. They often refer to me as “you” or “she,” instead of calling me “Sachiko.”
“Sachiko” is a Japanese name. Because of the way it is spelled, many Americans mispronounce my name. Sasha, Sashimi, Sushi — some people have called me completely different names. They were not joking. When I arrived in the U.S., I wished my parents had chosen a name that sounded more like an English one, such as Lisa.
A professor once asked me whether I had an English name or nickname. I have considered using an English name, such as Sally or Sarah, but I soon gave up the idea. An English name didn’t fit my appearance or character. Besides, I like my unique name. I enjoy the occasional moments when people have asked my origin or the meaning of my name, which is “child of happiness.”
Another professor asked how to pronounce my name ten times.
“Not Sah-shee-ko. It’s Sah-chee-ko,” I corrected her.
No matter how many times I told her, she couldn’t get it right.
I learned it was hard for some people to pronounce my name and became more tolerant about the ways Americans pronounce it.
I don’t mind that people cannot pronounce my name or remember my name at once. If it is an obvious mistake, I can correct it. I even appreciate people asking my name many times and trying to learn. I feel sorry, however, when I notice people avoiding calling me by name.
According to International Student and Scholar Services, international students accounted for 6 percent of KU students in the fall 2008 semester. Many of them carry names from their countries. And it is not just international students who have unusual names. The diversity of the U.S. is reflected through people’s names. At school or work, you may encounter different names. Don’t feel awkward to ask someone to repeat his or her name, and don’t be afraid to risk mispronouncing it. They’ll appreciate it a lot more than, “Hey, you.”
— Miyakawa is a Tokyo, Japan, senior in journalism.
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Comments
Miyakawa: What's in a name?
So, if you are from Sweden you have a Swedish name, Germany a German name, Japan a Japanese name. Go figure! Everyone should be proud of their heritage whatever it is. That professor had some nerve asking you if you have an English name! I feel deeply offended on your behalf. I have had a woman tell me what a shame it is that my name is Irish because that means I can't hide my background. I let her know in no uncertain terms how proud I am of my Irish heritage. You should do the same.
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