Free trip to Japan. Apply Now!
SIJ is a fully funded, two-week program in Oita, Japan that provides Harvard University undergraduates, and recent alumni and their close friends with amazing opportunities including: 1 week of practical leadership experience delivering workshops in English (Computer Science, Public Speaking, and Language Arts) for schoolchildren aged 7 to 18 from all over the world, 4 days of sightseeing and cultural immersion where you can experience authentic Japanese cuisine summer festivals and the beauty of nature from the mountains to the beaches. We also provide hands-on lessons in Japanese language and calligraphy, and a concert performance in a fully-equipped music hall.
Please see below for details.
Application deadline is February 29, 2024 EDT!
Watch the Promo Video from SIJ 2019!
YouTube, Instagram, SIJ2021 Concert
(past videos and 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015, too!)
Date: July 31 – August 14, 2024
Application Deadline: February 29, 2024 EDT
The program includes:
- THREE days of curriculum preparation sessions
- SEVEN days of practical leadership experience delivering workshops in English for schoolchildren aged 7-18 from all over the world, mainly from Japan.
Morning – Language Arts (mandatory)
Ranging from beginner to advanced. We touch on all aspects of English, for instance, idioms, persuasive writing, etc.Afternoon – Workshops (You can choose between Computer Science, Performing Arts, and Public Speaking)
- FOUR days of Touch and Feel Japan, an exciting exploration tour of Japan where the SIJ instructors can enjoy various attractions including authentic Japanese cuisine such as sushi and ramen, natural beauty of mountains and coast, as well as Japanese calligraphy, flower arrangement, and hands-on Japanese language classes
Due to over twelve years of experience as well as the excellent reputation of a distinguished curriculum, we regularly receive about 100 applications every year for only five to ten instructor positions. After the primary screening based on written documents and the second screening involving an interview with the President and Founder of SIJ, Mari Hirotsuru, this year, we accept five people who will enjoy this amazing opportunity to discover the true Japan, for free. It is surely worth a try!
- Step 1: fill in the registration form below to obtain the SIJ 2024 Official Application Form.
- Step 2: (first screening) Send your SIJ 2024 Official Application Form together with your resume to the SIJ committee by no later than February 29th, 2024.
- Step 3: (second screening) online interview on Zoom with President and Founder Mari Hirotsuru in March.
- Step 4: Applicants will be informed of the final decision by the end of April.
- Step 5: Free trip to Japan!
[SIJ2024 Overview]
Arrival in Oita, Japan:
Date: July 31st, 2024 JST
Curriculum Preparation:
Dates: August 1st – August 2nd, 2024 JST
7-day Education Program:
Dates: August 3rd – August 9th, 2024 JST
Time: 10am-5pm JST, (to be at the office before 9:30am)
Additional activities: Workout sessions with a professional gym trainer, speech presentation events, occasional group dinner, etc.
Registration Form