Home »
Programs » Families First » Japanese Exchange » Japanese Exchange Testimonials  | Japanese Exchange is a scholarship opportunity for FCCLA members to travel to Japan for four-to-six weeks as an exchange student. This scholarship is funded by the Kikkoman Corporation, administered by Youth For Understanding USA. Scholarships are worth more than $6,995 each. |
Read about experiences from past scholarship receipents!
 | "I am blessed to have had the chance to visit so many historical and beautiful places, such as the temples in Kamakura and Asakusa, the castle in Odawara, the famous shopping streets in Harajuku and the crossroads of Shibuya. I learned a new way of life; and that despite cultural differences and a language barrier, there is always something that brings people together. Japan is the best thing that has ever happened to me!" Olivia Nguyen "My most interesting and enlightening experience while in Japan was attending school. It gave me the opportunity to see kids my age with a high level of dedication to their education, and a great deal of independence. Japan's youth are trusted to take the train by themselves, organize school events, and even given the responsibility to clean the classrooms. " Taylor Larson |
"I learned the most about Japanese culture by experiencing it. I found every meal in Japan to be an adventure—and I was willing to try anything! By watching those around me, I also picked up on social manners such as eating with chopsticks, bowing and greeting others. During my trip, I was able to visit a Buddhist temple, participate in Bon Festival and dance traditional dances, try my first authentic sushi and fried takoyaki, and attend a kabuki performance (traditional Japanese drama). My host family also taught me about modern culture in Japan, and demonstrated to me that traditional and modern culture can coexist peacefully."
Dani Peterson | 
| |
| 
|
"I loved learning about the different concepts of the Japanese lifestyles and traditions. Japan has such an ancient and rich culture, and they place a great importance on family. Through my experience with my host family, community and friends, I learned that there is so much respect given to each family member. Throughout the six weeks, I developed a better appreciation for my family in America." Jennifer Ross
|
|
10 Things to Do Before Going to Japan... |
1. Become the proud owner of a passport. 2. Research Japan! Find out all you can about the history, current events, food, customs, pastimes…3. Get knowledgeable about current events in USA. You’ll be expected to be the expert!4. Brush up on your Japanese language skills.5. Ask you guidance counselor at school about getting credit. 6. Read American overseas student and parent handbooks, check YFU Web site for resources.7. Inform your YFU admissions counselor if anything in your life changes.8. Secure finances at home. Arrange payments, work schedule, bank account with parents.9. Attend YFU pre-departure orientation.10. Call your YFU admissions counselor with your questions!
|
| 
| | "Without this experience I would never thought I would be able to give a speech in Japanese to an entire school, or travel through Tokyo by trains with friends. I have gained so many new skills, and learned so much about myself while in Japan."
Eric Frazee |
|
|
 |
|
