It was a full-circle moment for one Lehman student, her parents, and her professor—a journey that began with a unique Japanese exchange program in 1990 and concluded with a summer study abroad course in Japan this past summer.
Thirty years ago, Asako Tochika enrolled at Lehman/Hiroshima College, a satellite campus where Lehman students could study abroad and Japanese students could experience an American-style campus before completing their degrees in the U.S. At Hiroshima, she took a course with Paul Woltmann, a faculty member in computer science.
Fast forward to 2024: Tochika, now a Lehman faculty member who directs the Japanese minor, created the immersive summer course “Washoku: Japanese Food and Culture,” exploring Japanese culture through the lens of regional cuisine, history, and foodways in combination with a trip to Japan.
Nutrition major Angelina Woltmann enrolled in the study abroad course because she wanted an international learning experience—and to see the land where her parents met.
“When Angelina told me about this opportunity, I told her ‘you have to go,’” said her mother Loretta.
Loretta met Paul Woltmann when both were faculty members at Lehman/Hiroshima College, which operated from 1990 through 1993. Like Tochika, they too are Lehman alumni.
Last spring, the circle began to close when Tochika saw the class roster. “I did not know Angelina at all until she applied to join the trip,” she said. “I found out who her parents were when I read her personal statement. I was very surprised.”
Angelina Woltmann understands why her mother, a seasoned traveler, was so enthusiastic about going to Japan.
“I love how respectful the people are there, with their food, and in public. It's kind of an ideal society,” she said. “I loved everything about it.”
Traveling with a native speaker made for a deeper experience as well. “We weren't just tourists, we were getting inside knowledge,” she said.
The course will be offered in the summer of 2025. Students interested in the wide range of study abroad opportunities at Lehman can learn more by contacting the Office of International Programs and Community Engagement.