Fifteen high school students, from Thurston County school districts, have been selected to participate in the program. Criteria for selection include:

• Students must be current 9th-12th graders, residing in Thurston County

• Students must be mature and comfortable in new surroundings and meeting new people

• Leadership skills and an interest in Japanese culture are expected

• Some knowledge of the Japanese language is a plus but not required

• Students whose families will be able to host a Kato student in Summer 2025 are preferred

The purpose of the trip is to promote understanding, goodwill, and friendship between the youth of Olympia and Kato. The students will travel to Kato, departing on or about July 13, 2024, and returning July 24. Two or three community adult chaperones will accompany the students, depending on group size. Students will pay for their own airfare, through OKSCA, arranged by a travel agent. Airfare is estimated at $2000-$2200. Students will need a current passport and approximately $200 of personal spending money.

During the visit, the Student Ambassadors will be guests of the people of Kato and will stay in Japanese homes. Most meals and transportation, while in Japan, will be provided by host families and the Kato International Association (KIA), the equivalent organization to OKSCA. Daily group activities, planned by KIA, will provide opportunities for students to experience cultural, historical, social, and recreational aspects of Japan. 

A committee of OKSCA members chose student participants for the 2024 Student Ambassador Program, based on the application and a personal interview.

• Once accepted, a non-refundable deposit of $100 for travel arrangements is due March 31, 2024

• Full payment of airfare is due April 30, 2024

• A valid passport is required for travel to Japan and for confirmation of tickets. If you do not currently have a passport, please begin the application process as soon as possible. More information may be found here: https://www.usa.gov/child-passport 

• Participants are encouraged to obtain travel insurance and confirm their health insurance coverage when traveling internationally

• Student Ambassadors and their parent/guardian will attend three informational meetings in the spring and early summer leading up to the trip