Each year, high school students from all over the United States who have studied Japanese language for a minimum of one year compose essays on a topic related to Japanese language and culture. They compete to be selected for a one-month trip to Japan, which incorporates intensive language study, college credit and a homestay with a Japanese family.

The KCC-JEE High School Essay Contest Program began in 1995. It is a unique program, established to provide American high school students with the opportunity to experience Japanese culture first-hand, enhancing their Japanese language skills and deepening their appreciation of Japanese culture and values by living in Japan for one month. They learn how to survive in a foreign country, gain experience with Japanese people and culture, and achieve three to four college credits by completing a month of Japanese language study in Japan.

In 2007, one award was made on the basis of an essay of 500 to 550 words on the following: "How the study of Japanese has impacted me and my plans for the future".

The eligibility requirements are that the applicant must:

* be an American citizen or permanent resident alien
* be 16 years of age by July 1, 2007
* have had at least one year of accredited Japanese language study
* be enrolled in 11th or 12th grade during the 2006-2007 school year
* attend a public or private high school in the United States
* be available to study during the four weeks established for this program during the summer of 2007

The winner is awarded a four-week Japanese Language and Culture Study Program in Japan during the summer of 2007. The prize includes round-trip airfare, tuition, and room and board in a Japanese home. Total value is approximately $4,000 per student, plus possible college credits.

For additional information, please contact the KCC-JEE office at 847-715-9859, or e-mail us at kccjee@comcast.net