Japan

Japan: Beyond the Classroom

Global Studies Program, Meiji Gakuin University

It may be possible for you to do a Special Study Project (an in-depth independent study) in an area of special interest. For projects that include field work, you will need some Japanese language skills. Prior to departure, you should discuss this opportunity with your department advisors and prepare a one-page proposal, which should be submitted to the Universitywide Office of EAP prior to departure. Upon arrival you will discuss the project with the UC visiting professor, who will approve the project based on the feasibility of the topic and the availability of a Meiji Gakuin faculty member to supervise the project. Special Study Projects are normally assigned two or three UC quarter units and may count as one of your elective courses.

Academic Year Program Opportunities

Some students may find the opportunity to participate in internships while in Japan. Some are short term internships during the semester break while others are ongoing during the academic year. In the past, some students have found internships with such companies as Panasonic and Asahi Beverage and the US Embassy. Internships at the US Embassy require application and security clearance with the State Department prior to leaving for Japan. Deadlines may be quite early, so interested students should begin these preparations well in advance of departure.

An exciting new method of connecting students with internship opportunities is HyperCampus, an internet-based clearinghouse for exchange of information among colleges and industry. Students should expect to locate internships on their own, without assistance from the Study Center or EAP.

Internships during the semester break may be in a city other than the host university and would involve additional housing and transportation costs. Internships at distant locations may also require a separate preliminary interview prior to the beginning of the internship itself, often necessitating two trips. As the Japanese workplace can be quite formal, students hoping to participate in an internship should plan to have appropriate attire.

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