Global Engagement

Farewell Ceremony for 8 UEFers Departing for Internships in Japan: A Moment of Emotions

12/12/2025

Building on the tangible outcomes of international internship programs—where many participating students have gone on to become full-time employees at Japanese enterprises—UEFers have gained stronger confidence in pursuing this pathway as a springboard for personal and professional development.

Recently, eight more UEF students embarked on this journey. They will undertake internships ranging from four months to one year at Okage Yokocho Cultural and Tourism Street (Mie Prefecture) and Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort (Niigata Prefecture). These destinations offer highly practical working environments rich in cultural experiences and real-world application.

This cohort includes students from the Faculties of Languages and International Cultures, Economics, Business Administration, Marketing, and Finance – Accounting

At Okage Yokocho, students will experience a distinctive service and retail environment in a well-known cultural district that recreates the Edo period and attracts a large number of domestic and international visitors. Internship responsibilities include guiding customers in souvenir shops, introducing products, assisting with purchases, supporting lost guests, and participating in food service operations such as welcoming guests, taking orders, setting tables, and assisting with service equipment.

Students will work in 8-hour shifts with scheduled days off each month. The program provides round-trip airfare, airport transfer support, uniforms, transportation allowances, and free utilities (electricity and gas), along with occupational accident insurance. The hourly wage is 1,050 yen, with higher rates on weekends, resulting in an estimated net monthly income of approximately 105,249 yen after deductions. Accommodation is provided near the workplace, ensuring convenience for daily living and commuting.

Faculty members, families, and friends gathered to encourage and support the students

In parallel, UEF students will also gain experience at Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture, a renowned destination featuring hotels, resorts, and vibrant winter activities. Here, students will complete a four-month internship in the hospitality sector, performing tasks such as room housekeeping, maintaining public areas, supporting hotel operations, learning safety and fire prevention procedures, assisting in Japanese cuisine preparation, and engaging in cultural exchange activities.

The program offers an estimated net monthly income of around 68,000 yen, with fully covered dormitory accommodation and utilities (electricity, water, and gas), as well as support for uniforms, meals, lift tickets, and essential equipment for cold weather. Students will also participate in traditional cultural experiences such as Ikebana (flower arrangement), visiting sake breweries, tea ceremonies, and Japanese fan-making—enabling them to gain deeper insights into Japan’s cultural heritage.

Students listened attentively to guidance and encouragement from lecturers and family members before departure

The addition of internship placements in Mie and Niigata further affirms UEF’s commitment to building a diverse international experiential ecosystem for students. Over the years, the University has continuously sent students to Japan through partnerships with enterprises and international educational organizations. Hundreds of UEF students have gained working experience in shops, restaurants, hotels, resorts, and service companies in Japan, thereby enhancing their language proficiency, developing professional discipline aligned with Japanese standards, and expanding international career opportunities.

Many emotional moments were captured before departure

Through its collaboration with Okage Yokocho and Joetsu Kokusai, UEF continues to provide students with access to highly practical working environments suitable for those with Japanese proficiency from N4 level and above, opening up diverse professional experiences. Programs like these not only equip students with essential skills and knowledge but also serve as valuable preparation for confidently entering the global labor market after graduation.

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