This month, we talk to Misa Fujii, an SEM Analyst within Merkle’s Amazon team. Learn about her work, what inspires her, how she became involved in DEI initiatives, and more. I Am Merkle is a series of interviews that showcase the individuals who make Merkle a unique and diverse place to work.
1. Tell us about yourself; where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
I grew up in Sunnyvale, California, but spent my summers attending school in Chigasaki, Japan. I currently reside in Birmingham, Alabama.
2. How/why did you get involved with the Multicultural BRG
Working remotely, I wanted to meet other co-workers outside of the team I work on, so I got involved with the Multicultural BRG. Being able to connect with multicultural co-workers all over the states has been a great experience!
3. What are some cultural traditions you celebrate or observe in the Month of December?
It’s called “Oomisoka” and it means “New Year’s Eve.” We celebrate the end of the year showing our appreciation of our good health and wellbeing for the entire year and wishing for a good new year. Deep cleaning the house is another big part in the month of December. By cleaning the house, we are getting rid of bad spirits and bringing in the good (clean) spirits in the prepare for the New Year.
4. What is one food you must have in December?
There is a special kind of noodle which symbolizes longevity. We have it as a family every year on December 31st.
5. To date, what has been your biggest learning or teaching moment?
The biggest learning moment was my internship during college. My boss at that time told me something I still carry with me every day. “Get straight to the point. Sometimes it’s best to give me bullet points instead of a paragraph.”
6. What is a moment in your life that defined or shaped who you are today?
Going from California to Alabama for college has shaped who I am today. This cross-country move taught me to be independent early on. I learned to take care of myself without relying on others first.
7. What inspires you about your workplace culture?
Merkle’s diversity of co-workers from different cultures and experiences inspires me, as everyone around me has different views and ways of critically thinking making it a great collaborative work environment.
8. If you currently weren’t doing what you do today professionally, what would you be doing?
My dream job would be working as a caretaker at a nursing home. I have always had a passion of taking care of people, especially the elderly.
9. What was the first concert you went to?
The first concert I went to was Emblem3 and MKTO in middle school.
10. Rapid fire:
- Favorite food: Pizza
- Favorite TV show/movie: Jersey Shore
- Favorite hobby/activity: Fishing
- Favorite book: Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Guilty pleasure: Eating a tub of ice cream
- Best advice or mantra you live by: You are the only one who can hold yourself accountable.
