About Me
Akiko Oda was born in Tokyo, Japan and grew up in Chiba Prefecture until she was seven years old. When she moved to Houston, Texas with her family, she didn't speak any English. She quickly learned the language by reading books and watching television. Akiko also attended Japanese school every Saturday where she continued to improve her Japanese. She was an active member in both American and Japanese communities.
Akiko earned her Bachelor's Degree in Broadcast Journalism at the University of Missouri School of Journalism in May 2010.
In October 2010, she moved to Gig Harbor, Washington, to become an editor at a startup hyperlocal community website called, Patch.com. At Patch, she enjoyed connecting with the community and learning about the issues and topics that were important to the residents. She covered a wide range of stories from breaking news to community events. She also navigated social media and helped grow the Patch brand.
When she's not working, she enjoys traveling, gardening, and cooking. Akiko also volunteered as an assistant coach for a youth lacrosse program in Gig Harbor. Even though her family lives in different parts of the world, she uses social media to stay connected. She is a member of the Asian American Journalists Association.
Akiko earned her Bachelor's Degree in Broadcast Journalism at the University of Missouri School of Journalism in May 2010.
In October 2010, she moved to Gig Harbor, Washington, to become an editor at a startup hyperlocal community website called, Patch.com. At Patch, she enjoyed connecting with the community and learning about the issues and topics that were important to the residents. She covered a wide range of stories from breaking news to community events. She also navigated social media and helped grow the Patch brand.
When she's not working, she enjoys traveling, gardening, and cooking. Akiko also volunteered as an assistant coach for a youth lacrosse program in Gig Harbor. Even though her family lives in different parts of the world, she uses social media to stay connected. She is a member of the Asian American Journalists Association.