On Saturday, July 25th, one hundred and forty two new participants in the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program departed for Japan from LAX.
The Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles hosted a Pre-Departure Orientation and Bon Voyage Reception honoring 2015-2016 JET Program participants on the eve of departure. At the reception, Deputy Consul General Izuru Shimmura gave an encouraging speech, and was followed by a spirited toast led by the President of the Japanese Prefectural Association of Southern California, Mr. Masami Kobayashi. Consul General Harry H. Horinouchi closed the evening with a performance of a famous Japanese song that wowed the crowd. Participants were also joined by representatives from various chapters of the Japanese Prefectural Association of Southern California, members of the Japan-related academic and cultural community who had served on the 2015 interview/selection committee, and members of the JET Alumni Association of Southern California (JETAASC). The event created an opportunity for departing JETs to thank those community members who were involved with their application, selection, and pre-departure process.
Now in its 29th year, the JET Program welcomes 1,835 new participants for a total of 4,786 participants from 43 countries. The primary objectives of these participants are to work as assistant language teachers/coordinators for international relations who assist in foreign language/culture education, promote internationalization by interacting with Japanese communities on a local level, and create lasting international ties between Japan and participants’ home countries.
The application period for the JET Program is October and November each year. For conditions, application materials and deadlines please visit http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/JET/. |
- 
