Congratulations to Elwood-John H. Glenn High School freshman Anju Okamura on receiving a Merit Award in Stony Brook University’s 9th Annual Japan Center Essay Competition, sponsored by Canon U.S.A. The contest was established with the goal of promoting “awareness and understanding of Japan in the United States and helping young Americans broaden their international horizons.” Entrants were asked to write on an aspect of Japan and its relation to the student’s personal views and experiences.

Anju chose to write about her father, who is a master sushi chef. In her essay, she detailed his lengthy training in Japan, where he spent seven years preparing for his career. Anju noted that she likes to assist her father, who currently serves as a chef at Takumi Japanese Restaurant in Commack.

Anju was chosen for the Merit Award among 3,000 high school entries from the New York metro area. “It is amazing to receive this award,” she said. She will be honored at an awards ceremony on April 6 at Stony Brook University.