Growing Up Between Two Countries — A Global Perspective Through Career in Research

In this article, we’re featuring Rio Smithさん (Washington CORE, L.L.C.), a Japanese–English bilingual professional whose life has been shaped by growing up between Japan and the United States.

Moving back and forth between two countries had a lasting impact on how Rioさん understands identity, communication, and society. Navigating different cultural norms and expectations from an early age fostered a habit of observation and adaptability that continues to influence how he approaches his work today. This background naturally led him to study Urban Studies at university, where he developed a strong interest in research and analysis as tools for understanding complex social systems.

Rioさん is currently working at Washington CORE, L.L.C., an independent research and consulting firm that provides strategic research analysis and advisory services. Leveraging in-depth research capabilities and extensive international networks across both the public and private sectors, Washington CORE supports clients as they navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing global landscape. With a diverse and adaptable team, the firm is committed to delivering clarity and insight that help clients achieve their missions. Within this environment, Rio brings his bilingual background and cross-cultural perspective to research-driven work that bridges countries, sectors, and ways of thinking.

二つの国で育ったからこそ見えるものがある。
その視点が、今の仕事と向き合う力になっている。

Editorial Note:
Some testimonials have been lightly edited for clarity, grammar, and length without changing the original meaning.

Q&A Interview

Q1. What is your connection to Japan or the Japanese language and culture?

I grew up moving back and forth between various places in the United States and Japan, spending parts of my elementary, middle, and high school years in both countries. Because I was constantly changing environments, the ability to speak Japanese became something I could hold on to. It was a constant that connected me to a sense of place and identity.

The language was more than just a tool for communication; it became a bridge to people and communities. Through Japanese, I was able to engage with different aspects of society, including sports teams I supported, shows I enjoyed watching, and authors I loved reading. Even though my background and experiences differ from those of many people in Japan, being able to express myself, share emotions, and connect with others through Japanese has allowed me to feel grounded and connected wherever I am.

Q2. What motivated you to work for a Japanese corporation?

My motivation came from wanting to make meaningful use of my bilingual and bicultural background while contributing my skills in a positive way. My experiences with language and culture have helped me build relationships with people from many different backgrounds, and I wanted to work in an environment where those strengths would be valued.

I also saw working in a Japanese corporate environment as an opportunity to continue learning, both professionally and personally, within a structured and collaborative setting. Ultimately, I wanted to be in a role that would challenge me to grow while contributing to something larger than myself, whether that meant supporting international cooperation or helping a team succeed in a global context.

Q3. Compared with other Japanese–English bilingual professionals, what unique strengths or competitive advantages do you have?

One of the experiences that has shaped me most is my background in both assisting with and leading research projects. During high school and university, I worked on research that required reaching out to government officials, academics, and nonprofit representatives in both Japan and the United States.

These projects often placed me in unfamiliar environments with different structures, expectations, and unspoken norms. Learning to navigate those situations, even when they were uncomfortable, helped me develop adaptability and strong communication skills. I became accustomed to adjusting my approach depending on the audience, work culture, and context, which I believe is a key strength in cross-cultural and multilingual environments.

Q4. What has been the biggest challenge in working for a Japanese company, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge has been adjusting to a role that requires engaging with multiple new environments at once. I work with clients from different countries and industries, and unlike when I was a student or intern, I now carry greater responsibility.

Because my background is somewhat unique, there has not always been a clear model for what the “right” approach should be. There have been times when I misread situations or did not respond as effectively as I could have. While these moments initially made me self-conscious, I have come to see them as a natural part of learning.

I am fortunate to work with kind and patient teammates who encourage questions and offer support. Their guidance has helped me gain confidence in unfamiliar settings and take on new challenges without being held back by fear of making mistakes.

Looking Ahead — Turning a Cross-Border Upbringing into Professional Strength

Rioさん’s story shows how growing up between Japan and the United States can shape more than language ability. By navigating different cultures, institutions, and expectations, he has developed adaptability, curiosity, and a research-driven mindset that continue to guide his work today. Rather than following a predefined path, he has learned to work within uncertainty — asking questions, observing carefully, and adjusting his approach across environments. As global organizations increasingly seek professionals who can bridge cultures and perspectives, his journey demonstrates how a bilingual, bicultural background can become a long-term professional asset.

At iiicareer, we support bilingual and globally minded professionals who want to turn international experience into meaningful, sustainable careers across the U.S. Whether your background spans multiple countries, languages, or academic fields, we help you identify roles that align with your strengths, prepare for interviews and career transitions, and connect with trusted employers in research, consulting, policy, operations, and beyond. If you’re exploring your next step, it may already be an extension of what you’ve lived and learned.

次のキャリアステップは、これまでの経験の延長線上にあるかもしれません。