Indiana 4-H International Programs Creating Friendships Around the World

INTERN PROGRAMS IN JAPAN

One-Year Internships in Japan

A 4-H Program of International Living, Working, and Studying

The Program

Former participants of the 4-H Japanese Exchange Summer Outbound Program are eligible to apply for the 4-H Japanese Internship Program.  The full-year program offers participants the opportunity to live with Japanese host families, work with the sponsoring Japanese exchange organization, and learn about Japanese culture through both formal classes and independent research.

Labo, Lex, and Utrek each offer Internships.

Intern year activities include:

• Living as part of Japanese families
• Assisting with workshops, camp, group activities for members in Japan, and orientation programs for 4-H Summer Exchange Program delegates in Japan.
• Attending Japanese language classes
• Completing a major independent study project or other structured learning experience involving one or more areas of Japanese culture.
• Completing both a mid-year and a final report to the National 4-H Japanese Exchange Committee on the individual study project.

The internship program usually runs from August to August.

How Interns Are Selected

There are a very limited number of internships available each year, so the application process is a very competitive one.  Below are basic criteria for applicants.

Applicants must be:

• At least 18 years old by January 1 of the program year they are applying for.
• No older than 25.
• High School graduates (one year of college preferred).
• Past participants in a 4-H short-term  exchange program in Japan.
• Have some ability to understand and communicate in Japanese (language requirements vary according to the needs of the sponsoring organizations in Japan).

The Application Process

• Application packets are available from your State 4-H Office.
• Applications are due to the 4-H Japanese Exchange Central Office by January 15.
• Top applicants are interviewed by members of the 4-H National Committee and the Japanese organizations.
• Applicants selected for an interview must submit a detailed cultural project proposal and be prepared to discuss it at their interview session.
• Expenses for applicants selected to travel for a personal interview are paid by the Japanese organizations.
• Successful applicants are notified of their acceptance by early spring.

Covered Expenses

Interns are provided with:

• Round-Trip airfare to Japan.
• A monthly stipend
• Medical and accident insurance coverage

For more information, please call your County Extension office or the State 4-H Department at 888-EXT-INFO.