Program Highlights

Program Highlights for Waseda Students at GLCA/ACM Colleges
Since 1960, Waseda students have been experiencing college life in the United States through the Japan Study program. The following are some of the highlights and opportunities available to students.

• Liberal Arts Education
  Liberal arts colleges in the U.S. enroll high caliber students. Upon graduation, many enter the nation’s best graduate, business, law, and other professional schools. Liberal arts colleges have competitive entrance requirements and rigorous academic standards. Through the Japan Study program, selected Waseda students are guaranteed placement into one of the GLCA/ACM colleges.
  
  
• Orientation Programs
  The Tokyo orientation is lead by our Program Associate at Waseda, Michiyo Nagayama. Over the period of several weeks, students will have the opportunity to work together to prepare for studying and living overseas. A broad range of issues are discussed, such as visas and insurance, as well as the higher education system in the U.S. and the basic course structure at a liberal arts college. Contacts and friendships made with students from the U.S., currently studying at Waseda during this time, also provide a good support network for students who have questions about the various aspects to study abroad.
  
  On their U.S. campus, Waseda students attend orientation sessions with other international students followed by sessions for all new students to the college.
  
  For students who want an additional introduction to the U.S. college experience, Coe College offers an intensive two-week program in August. Students receive one-on-one tutoring, take short courses, and learn reading and writing skills that will help them succeed at their U.S. liberal arts college. Students are also placed with a host family for a weekend. The cost of this program is not included in the Japan Study fees. Arrangements to attend this orientation can be made through Michiyo Nagayama of the Japan Study office at Waseda.
  
  
• Japan Study Technical Support
  The Japan Study Director, Program Associate, and Administrative Assistant work from the main office at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. The current Resident Director and Program Associate have offices at Waseda’s Center for International Education.
  
  Japan Study provides assistance to students and their parents before, during, and after the study-abroad experience. Japan Study also provides technical support regarding the visa and I-20 applications. Our U.S. office also acts as a liaison between the Waseda student and the host college.
  
  
• Classes at a Liberal Arts College
  Liberal arts colleges are known for their small numbers, usually between 800-3000 students, compared to public schools that where enrolment sometimes reaches 50,000. Former Waseda participants have commented on the importance of small class size (often 5 - 15 students per class) in helping them improve their English skills. Communication with the professor is an important part of a liberal arts education. Professors know their students by name and encourage students to work together.
  
  
• College life in the U.S.
  Students live in campus dormitories with American and other international students. This is the best environment for international students to learn about American culture and make new friends.
  
  There are many opportunities to become involved on campus through internships, community service, and travel. Former students have worked as teaching assistants for Japanese language departments. Others have volunteered at community organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, soup kitchens, and schools. As an international student, you may have the opportunity to enroll in a travel course that meets in another location in the U.S. or abroad. (Please check with your host school about such opportunities).
  
  
• Japan Study Student Network
  At the Tokyo orientation, Waseda students meet a group of American year-abroad students from Japan Study liberal arts colleges. During the next year, these friendships carry over to the U.S. When students return to Waseda after their year abroad, they may continue to participate in Japan Study events on the Waseda campus.
  
  
• Alumni Network
  Like the many notable alumni from these liberal arts colleges, you will find that your study-abroad experience will prepare you to take part in the international community. Career services offices and alumni networks can be helpful in making connections that last a lifetime. In the future, these friendships and connections will be a valuable asset as you begin your own career.