The Edwin O. Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies (RIJS), in partnership with the Program on U.S.-Japan Relations at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs and John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), coordinates a wide array of summer internship opportunities in Japan for Harvard students of any concentration who are in good academic standing and are returning for the fall semester as full-time students. As interns, students learn about the workplace culture and have the opportunity to learn and practice Japanese while contributing to a project defined by the host organization. Since 1988, over 400 students have contributed their skills and applied their knowledge to consulting and financial firms, tech and startup companies, international and local newspaper offices, design and architectural firms, research think tanks and educational organizations, offices of parliamentary members and NGOs, and even to a traditional luxury ryokan.
Internships last a minimum of 8 weeks, usually from early June until early August. RIJS has limited internship positions available and cannot guarantee placement. Acceptance is contingent on finding a fit between available positions and applicants. Some Japanese language ability is preferred by most organizations. Preference is given to students enrolled in Japanese language courses and to first-time Japan internship holders.
Self-arranged Track: Due to limited internship positions available, we strongly encourage students, especially those who are interested in doing very specific projects or tasks, to arrange an internship in Japan on their own and apply to the Program for funding support only. Self-arranged internships must meet the minimum 8-week requirement. It is highly recommended that students who are looking to self-arrange their internships start the search process as early as possible. Self-arranging students can seek advice from various entities at Harvard, including but not limited to the Office of Career Services, Harvard faculty, and the Harvard alumni network.
There is no separate application for funding. Applicants who are placed into the Program will receive a grant package put together by the RIJS and the host organization, which includes round-trip discount airfare, housing accommodation, and a small subsidy for some meals.
The RIJS will follow Harvard University travel guidance when determining which internships are available and eligible for funding.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Saturday, January 11, 2025 by 11:59pm EST on CARAT (application opens in early November)