Japanese 5th Annual Winter Watch Party & Trivia Games - Immersion Japanese Club

Hi! I’m Mr. Kelsey Phillip Payne, a dedicated educator with over 20 years of teaching experience and a passion for exploring the interconnected worlds of philosophy, mathematics, and languages. Whether it’s delving into the nuances of the Japanese language and culture, unraveling the complexities of mathematical logic, or grappling with profound philosophical questions, I specialize in helping motivated students gain confidence and achieve mastery through engaging, immersive lessons.

In the realm of language education, I offer a variety of courses through my Immersion Japanese Club (IJC), from beginner-friendly introductions to Japanese to advanced classes designed to prepare students for the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test). These courses focus on building well-rounded skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, with a strong emphasis on kanji literacy and cultural application. My approach immerses students not only in the language but also in the cultural context that shapes it, helping them connect with a broader worldview. 

For students passionate about mathematics, I run MathSamurai, where I demystify topics ranging from foundational algebra to advanced problem-solving techniques. I use creative, intuitive approaches to help students understand challenging concepts and see the beauty of mathematical logic. Whether you’re aiming to ace your next exam or strengthen your logical reasoning, MathSamurai is designed to make math both accessible and exciting. 

When it comes to philosophy, my Philosophy For Real (P4R) program introduces students to the “big questions” of life, ethics, and existence through a mix of classic philosophy, modern thought, and pop culture. I strive to make philosophical inquiry approachable and fun, bridging ancient thinkers like Socrates with the dynamic ideas of today. It’s a journey into critical thinking, self-discovery, and the art of asking the right questions. 

Beyond live teaching, I share free resources tailored to each discipline. My Immersion Japanese Club YouTube channel offers videos on mastering kanji, cultural insights, and tips for passing the JLPT. For math enthusiasts, my MathSamurai blog features problem-solving strategies and accessible explanations of complex topics. Meanwhile, philosophy lovers can explore the Philosophy For Real podcast (starting in March), where I dive into relatable philosophical themes with a modern twist. These platforms provide ways for learners to engage with each subject at their own pace and get inspired on their educational journeys. (For more details about myself and the above projects, check out my website at www.KelseyPhillipPayne.com.)

My academic background includes studying philosophy, religion, and Japanese at Gustavus Adolphus College and Kansai Gaidai University in Japan, where I developed a lifelong appreciation for cross-cultural understanding. I lived and worked in Japan for three years, teaching at elementary and junior high schools and serving as a translator. During that time, I passed the JLPT N2 level and have since guided many students to JLPT mastery, with personal experience sitting for the N1 level. My work in math and philosophy complements my language teaching, showing how these disciplines connect in ways that encourage critical thinking and personal growth.

Inspired by thinkers like Socrates and Miyamoto Musashi, my teaching philosophy emphasizes immersion, context, and discovery. As Musashi said, "From one thing, know ten thousand things." Whether we’re solving equations, debating life’s biggest questions, or exploring a new language, my goal is to help students experience the transformative power of education.

Something fun about me? I’m a fan of Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli films (Princess Mononoke is my favorite), an uber fan of The Matrix and philosophical sci-fi, deeply curious about astrobiology, and always excited to whip up some homemade onigiri with my family.