I now appreciate that I can better analyze primary sources because of my past experiences as a geisha apprentice and a language teacher.”
Aoi Saito (they/them)
PhD Candidate in the Department of History
Aoi Saito is a PhD candidate in the Department of History in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. They are currently researching women, their networks, and mobility in order to examine the development of national welfare systems.
How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience?
My research examines networks of women who sold sexual services in modern Japan, especially how these women worked with each other to improve their health, security, and living conditions.
What is the biggest potential impact or implication of your work?
My work focuses on women's networks even when they engage in economic and sexual relationships with men. It elucidates the impact of these women's collaborative actions not only on their lives but also on social policy construction.
Why Northwestern?
I came to Northwestern to learn analytical skills from my adviser, Professor Amy Stanley.
How do you unwind after a long day?
I practice classical Japanese dance to switch my mode after a long day of work.
What inspires you?
My academic and economic backgrounds are not strong. However, I was able to go to college and later to graduate school. This is because of assistance from people in the entertainment districts in Japan and Western and Japanese academic communities. Through my research, I hope to show my growth and gratitude to all the people who have helped me get here.
Tell us about a time when things did not go as you planned, what did you learn?
I took many detours in my career. Although I took a long time coming to higher education, I now appreciate that I can better analyze primary sources because of my past experiences as a geisha apprentice and a language teacher. From this experience, I learned that my weakness can be my strength.
To learn more about Aoi, visit their website at https://sites.northwestern.edu/aoisaito/.
Published: October 11, 2022
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