alt=""

My Tandem Story

My name is Jordan and I graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2012.  I [want to] give thanks for the introduction TandemPlus did for us. Because of this program we have been able to have a special relationship connecting the U of M to Japan for the last 10 years.

Easter in Minnesota

Back in 2008, TandemPlus introduced myself and Akirhiro Ariumi (Post-doc surgical student) to each other. Our first meeting was at the Washington Ave Starbucks and from then, Ari started coming to family holiday events and we became friends from there. From 2008, we have stayed in touch and he has visited Minnesota several times as well as me visiting him and his family in Japan while working out with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp baseball team. I also got to meet his children for the first time this past month and it has been great to stay in touch with each other over the years. Now I work for Altra Footwear and was able to give him shoes to try for running! He actually introduced me to the surgeon who performed my ankle surgery here in Japan for a torn ankle ligament. The impact we have had on each other is extraordinary and we can thank the TandemPlus Program for that!

Jordan_and_ari_-_tandem_partners_for_10_years

We will continue to stay in touch with each other and he is already talking about sending his kids to Minnesota to study when they grow-up.  

Thanks again for the great introduction and keep doing what you do! 

jordan_with_aris_family_in_japan.jpg