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, and gain experience with Japanese people and culture by completing a month of Japanese language study in Japan.

In 2007, 2008 and 2009 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".

NOW RECRUITING FOR THE 2010 ESSAY CONTEST!

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 15TH, 2010.

FLYER FOR THE 2010 ESSAY CONTEST

2010 APPLICATION FORM

The eligibility requirements are that the applicant must:

* be an American citizen or permanent resident alien
* be 16 years of age by July 1 of the year the contest is held
* have had at least one year of accredited Japanese language study
* attend a public or private high school in the United States
* be available to study during the four weeks established for this program

The winner is awarded a four-week Japanese Language and Culture Study Program in Japan. The prize includes round-trip airfare, tuition, and room and board in a Japanese home. Total value is approximately $4,000 per student.

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