(updated January 2004)
Aobakai, a graduate colloquium for Japanese studies at UC Berkeley, was formed in April 2000. Its purpose is to give students and scholars who are interested in Japan an opportunity to meet across disciplines, exchange opinions, and discuss shared interests and concerns about their research. Aobakai's main activities include holding lunch gatherings, assisting the formation of study groups, and organizing student-initiated conferences. Information about upcoming events and funding opportunities is also shared during the lunch gatherings.
"Aobakai" literally means, "Green Leaves Association." The original members chose the word, "Aoba" (green leaves), in appreciation of the beautiful greenery that vitalizes the minds of Berkeley students and faculty through the year.
Undergraduate students, graduate students, visiting scholars, staff and faculty members, and other community members are all welcome. Aobakai particularly encourages those who are beginning to develop an interest in Japanese studies, and those who are currently conducting Japan-related research, to participate in Aobakai events.