What is a Labo Intern?

Labo Interns are ambassadors: assigned to different parts of Japan, they travel around helping Japanese youth learn about the world beyond. They introduce about their home country, build grassroots connections with the students and host families they encounter and share the joy of cultural exchange, all while learning more about Japan.

By the end of the program, interns will have developed a unique set of skills, preparing them for success in various fields, including teaching and international relations. Interns take home with them not only professional experience to add to their resume but also countless memories and invaluable experiences.

Application Criteria:

• 18 to 25 years of age when arriving in Japan
• A High School Diploma or its equivalent
• Citizenship in the United States of America or Canada
• A strong interest in Japanese culture
• The desire to work with Japanese youth and live in homestays for an extended period
• A willingness to commit time to improving one's Japanese language ability
• The ability to cooperate with and respect people of various beliefs and opinions

Experience with exchange programs such as Labo's homestay program is not a requirement, though it is highly encouraged!

Never a Dull Moment!

Labo Interns have the rare opportunity to interact with countless Japanese students, helping promote cultural exchange and inspiring Japanese youth to study abroad as they visit youth gatherings known as Labo Parties. For those preparing to go overseas, Interns will also run preparation camps to help ready travellers for what awaits them.

Besides in-person visits, Labo Interns have helped brainstorm and implement new programs, such as livestreams, workshops, and short-essay competitions; Labo is always on the look out for ways to utilize each Labo Intern's unique set of skills!

Labo Interns are leaders during Labo's inbound exchange programs. Drawing from their own experiences, Interns help those arriving in the country for the first time know what to expect and how to thrive while in Japan. Acting as chaperones, counselors and role models to the international youth, they are an integral part of our programs.

The Best Way to Learn Something Is to Try It Yourself!

Interns receive two months of training, including lessons at the Labo Japanese Language Institute. Placed in classes based on their ability, Labo Interns meet with teachers who approach them where they are at in their Japanese language journey, they gain confidence in reading, writing, and communicating in Japanese. Not only will these lessons help with navigating daily life in Japan, but they also prepare Labo Interns to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, a prerequisite for those hoping to pursue a career in Japan.

Entering Japan on a Cultural Studies Visa, Labo Interns commit themselves to research on a traditional aspect of Japanese culture, finding opportunities to get up close and personal with Japan's rich history not possible back home. Ikebana, Kendo, Wagashi-making, or Haiku; take classes to get hands-on experience, interview experts, and expand your knowledge, all with the support of the Labo organization.

Join an International Family!

We are now accepting applications for 2024-2025 North American Labo Interns.

Applications are now handled online, via Google Forms. The deadline for submissions is January 19th at 23:59 Japanese Standard Time (JST).

Click here to apply!

If you have any questions regarding the program, feel free to reach out to us at
intern@labo-global.co.jp.