News & Updates
Japanese Reading Group: May 2025
In May, we will be reading the first few pages of Kawamura Genki's novel 私の馬 (My Horse) on Friday, May 9 at 7 PM ET.
JETAA Chapter Grants: 2025 Applications OPEN!
USJETAA invites all JETAA chapters and/or sub-chapters in the US to apply for a small grant (typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500) to support an innovative event or program that furthers US-Japan relations at the grassroots level. We are currently accepting applications on a rolling basis through October 1, 2025.
Powering the Diverse Labor Economy of the Future: U.S.-Japan Cooperation on Supporting the Integration of Immigrant Students and Families
Vivian Chen (Shimane, 2016-2018)
Although immigration is enriching both Japanese and American societies, a critical issue is the integration of immigrant families and their children into educational systems, especially primary and secondary schools. This process has not only social implications, but also significant consequences for the U.S. and Japanese economies, which both face challenges due to aging populations and shrinking workforces…
JETs on Japan: April, 2025
April’s Ouchigohan Menu: Agedashi Tofu & Nasu Dengaku!
This month’s menu features TWO dishes: Nasu Dengaku & Agedashi Tofu. Join us on Sunday, April 27 at 4:00 PM EST and learn how to make this comforting classic!
Photo of the Month: April 2025
Our Photo of the Month comes from Mark Lamb (Ehime, 2024-Present) sharing a peaceful time on the Uwajima Unyu Ferry.
NEXT JET 2025 Cohort Registration Now Open!
The NEXT JET Group Mentorship Program gives departing JETs the chance to connect with JET alumni, current JETs and 2025 departing JETs to get advice and have a safe space to ask questions and connect. 2025 JETs are welcome to join at any point, although this group is typically most active through the end of July.
How 2,000 Books in Kobe Created a University Librarian
A certain object — one that many people consider outdated nowadays — planted a seed in Adam Lisbon that ended up shaping his life. “The thing that really made me want to travel and see the world — and Japan sort of filled that gap of where to go in the world — was, believe it or not, CD-Roms,” Lisbon said.
Japan Society of Boston Meets Bianca Sanchez Alvarez (Hiroshima, 2016-2018)
This April, Japan Society of Boston featured Bianca Sanchez Alvarez (Hiroshima, 2016-2018). In their JSB meets JET Alumni series. Bianca reflects on her journey inspired by her great-grandfather’s Japanese roots. She shares insights on Hiroshima’s culture, from okonomiyaki to Peace Memorial Park, and the lasting connections made with students and colleagues.

