JET Program Returnee Reception Held at Official Residence (November 8, 2025)

On November 8th, 2025, Consul-General Okajima hosted a reception at the official residence for participants of the JET Program who have recently returned to the United States. Representing the returnees, Ms. Erin Sporl, who worked as an English teacher in Kanazawa City, shared, “During my stay, I had invaluable experiences and was able to learn about mizuhiki, a traditional craft of Kanazawa. It was truly a memorable time.”

The attendees were warmly welcomed back by members of the alumni association and those involved in Japan-US exchange. This year’s returnee reception was the first held at the official residence since the COVID-19 pandemic, with participants coming from Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, as well as Nebraska.

On the same day as the reception, a JET Program Information Session and career advancement (“CareerUp”) event involving Program alumni were held at the University of Denver. Both events featured engaging presentations and panel discussions, and the attendees listened attentively throughout.

We sincerely hope that these JET alumni, both new and old, will cherish their wonderful memories of Japan and continue to serve as bridges between Japan and the United States.