Yuka Ito, an exchange student from Japan currently studying at the College of Staten Island, has been named a winner in Study New York’s annual photo contest. Her submission, which won in the category of “What I Love About Studying in New York,” captured a stunning view of the Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan skyline at sunset from Domino Park in Brooklyn—an image that earned her top honors and an invitation to an awards reception on May 6 at St. Francis College in Brooklyn.
Originally from Saitama Prefecture, just north of Tokyo, Yuka is a student at Meiji University where she majors in Global Japanese Studies. Her academic interests span Japanese subculture, international relations, and library science. She arrived in New York last summer to spend a full academic year at CSI, drawn to the College’s strong curriculum in business and economics and its expansive, nature-filled campus.
“New York is a global economic center,” Yuka explained. “Studying here allowed me to see business concepts come to life right in front of me, which was incredibly inspiring.”
The winning photograph was more than just a scenic shot—it reflected Yuka’s emotional connection to the city. “Some people say New York’s sky is messy because you can’t see stars,” she wrote in her caption, “but I believe that makes Manhattan’s buildings more glittering in contrast with the dark sky. When I feel lonely, I visit this place and see the sinking sun. This is my favorite place to be calm in New York.”
While studying at CSI, Yuka also immersed herself in community service, volunteering at both the CSI Library and the Port Richmond branch of the New York Public Library. “In Japan, I took courses in library science,” she said. “I wanted to experience the American library system firsthand. Volunteering here helped me better understand how libraries serve diverse communities.”
As her exchange year comes to a close, Yuka plans to return to Meiji University to complete her degree while building on her passion for library science. “I hope my perspective as an international student showcases the appeal of life in New York and encourages more students to study here,” she said.
The College of Staten Island proudly congratulates Yuka on her achievement and applauds her incredible journey as an international student experiencing life in New York.
