When I was young I joined karate because I was picked on at school. I met a few people who were Japanese and I became best friends with them. Well after that everything else fell into. My friends introduced me to Manga, Anime, sushi, and Japanese culture. Just like many people have already said, I play FFXI (FInal Fantasy 11) and there are always the japanese players. However, the game isnt the main reason. I've always wanted to speak with my friends in Japanese.
Plus another language looks good for colleges.