US-Japan Bridging Foundation

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US-Japan Bridging Foundation

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The US-Japan Bridging Foundation awards scholarships to US undergraduate students to study for one semester or academic year in Japan.

www.bridgingfoundation.org/ The Foundation aims to expand the opportunities for study abroad in Japan to help prepare America’s young people to assume future global leadership roles. Students must be accepted in a program in Japan, and provide the tuition. Bridging Scholars are chosen by a volunteer committee and awarded scholarships of up to $5,000 for the academic year, which provide for travel and daily cost-of-living expenses.

09/23/2026

🇯🇵 “I cannot wait to see and explore more of Japan!” 🌸

For Ariel Santos, a 2026–27 Bridging Scholar from Appalachian State University, her time in Japan has already been filled with new experiences, connections, and discoveries.

Studying at Kansai Gaidai University in Hirakata, between Kyoto and Osaka, Ariel has been grateful for the kindness of the people she has met, the dedication of her professors, and the opportunity to continue improving her Japanese. She’s also been enjoying exploring her new surroundings—including a memorable day in Osaka visiting Osaka Castle and walking more than 15 miles! 🏯👟

“I am very thankful for the opportunity I have been given by this foundation to study and experience the culture and academia of Japan.”

We’re so happy to support Ariel as she continues her journey and looks forward to discovering even more of Japan. 🇺🇸🇯🇵

09/14/2026

We recently held the Fall Scholar Pre-Departure Orientation! 🇯🇵✈️

It was a joy to see so many enthusiastic faces as our 2026–2027 Bridging Scholars get ready for their adventures in Japan.

The session was filled with new connections, helpful advice, and plenty of excitement for the year ahead. This orientation set the stage for a transformative experience in language, culture, and personal growth. 🌏💬

We look forward to following their journeys as they bring energy and curiosity to Japan!

08/12/2026

We are finalizing our 2026-2027 Scholar Cohort and will be introducing them to you very soon. Keep an eye on this space 👀

We look forward to sending a new group of amazing scholars to Japan!

07/22/2026

A semester abroad can open doors to experiences you never imagined. 🇯🇵✨

While studying at Kansai Gaidai University, this Bridging Scholar not only strengthened their Japanese language skills and explored the Kansai region, but also had the rare opportunity to intern at a Japanese elementary school after the semester ended. From building connections with local students to gaining firsthand insight into Japan's education system, the experience was an unforgettable highlight of their time abroad.

"Overall, interning at an elementary school was one of the biggest highlights I had in Japan."

Thank you to our donors and partners for making transformative opportunities like these possible. 💙

06/24/2026

❄️ New friendships, new skills, and a deeper connection to Japan—Katherine McCoy is making the most of her year abroad.

Since arriving at Shinshu University in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Bridging Scholar Katherine McCoy has embraced every opportunity to deepen her understanding of Japan through language, community, and cultural exchange.

From improving her Japanese skills and building friendships with students from around the world to learning how to ski from an 80-year-old local volunteer, Katherine’s experience highlights the meaningful connections that make studying abroad so transformative.

One of her most memorable experiences was a week-long internship in the mountain village of Nagawa, where she lived with a local family and gained firsthand insight into rural Japanese life. She worked in a soba restaurant, participated in Buddhist meditation and calligraphy, tried traditional snowshoes (kanjiki), and connected with community members who shared their traditions and stories.

Thank you to our donors and supporters for making experiences like Katherine’s possible.

06/10/2026

Spring 2026 Bridging Scholar Kaitlyn Vong is embracing every opportunity to learn, connect, and grow during her semester in Japan.✨

From forming friendships with students from around the world to exploring Japan’s vibrant art scene, Kaitlyn’s experience highlights the value of curiosity, empathy, and cultural exchange. A memorable visit to see Zadok Ben-David’s "Blackfield" installation inspired reflection on how assumptions shape our understanding of others—an insight that has become especially meaningful as she navigates life in a new cultural environment.

Beyond the classroom, Kaitlyn has immersed herself in discussions on migration and modern Japanese society, discovered hidden galleries and museums, and connected with fellow Bridging scholars, alumni, and supporters at our spring networking dinner in Tokyo.

Thank you, Kaitlyn, for sharing your journey with us, and thank you to our donors for making transformative study abroad experiences like this possible. 🇯🇵🌏

05/29/2026

🎓 Scholar Spotlight: Congratulations to Bridging Scholar Dotun Adedokun!

Dotun recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from Rutgers University with a B.A. in Japanese and Communications — an incredible accomplishment that reflects years of dedication, perseverance, and passion for cross-cultural learning.

We’re also excited to celebrate his next chapter: Dotun has accepted a placement with the JET Program in 伊江村 (Ie Village), Okinawa! This small remote island community, just a ferry ride from Okinawa’s main island, will soon become home as he continues to deepen his language skills and immerse himself in rural Japanese life and culture.

Dotun shared that studying abroad and connecting through the Bridging Foundation helped shape the path that brought him here today. We are so proud to see our scholars continue building meaningful connections between the U.S. and Japan, and we can’t wait to see all that lies ahead for him. おめでとうございます! 🇯🇵✨

04/29/2026

From classroom discussions to real-world connections, Ella Jewell is making the most of her time at Keio University 🇯🇵

A third-year International Relations student from the University of Pennsylvania, Ella is diving into studies on Japan’s economy and politics while advancing her Japanese through daily life and conversation. Her spring so far has included exploring Tokyo and Yokohama, connecting with an international community in her dorm, and even sharing her own skills—teaching a yoga class in Yoyogi Park.

Outside the classroom, Ella is embracing cultural exchange in all its forms, from hosting English lessons to enjoying a 飲み会 with her students (and discovering new favorite foods along the way 🍢). Her experience reflects the curiosity, initiative, and global perspective that define Bridging Scholars.

04/15/2026

Spring in Japan brings fresh beginnings—and a new wave of Bridging Scholars ready to make the most of their time abroad 🌸

From campus life at Kansai Gaidai to weekend adventures near Mt. Fuji, scholars are already immersing themselves in new experiences, cultures, and connections. Whether exploring historic temples, enjoying seasonal blooms, or building friendships that span the globe, this season marks the start of an unforgettable journey.

Here’s to growth, discovery, and the vibrant energy of spring 🌿✨

04/09/2026

Bridging Scholarships are about more than just financial support—they’re about building connections that last a lifetime.

At a recent Senpai Networking Session in Tokyo, our Executive Director and several community friends came together with current scholars to share advice, experiences, and encouragement. These “senpai” moments offer invaluable insight, helping students navigate life in Japan and beyond.

From meaningful conversations over dinner to mentorship that continues long after the program ends, the Bridging community is here to support scholars every step of the way. 🌏✨

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Washington D.C., DC

Website

http://www.bridgingfoundation.org/

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