Become an Intern
Beginning in 2013, we have had a team of interns working with us. They receive credit for their first semester and are paid hourly for their second semester. They develop and implement outreach programs, develop online resources, handle social media and communications. With the very first programs the students planned and coordinated, the level of interest and attendance by student population increased exponentially. This student-based initiative has strongly increased recognition across the student community and provided the interns with a powerful experience in cultural understanding and public outreach. It has been an absolute joy to work with these students and we are excited every fall to welcome a new group of interns!
"Working at the Japan House taught me how to appreciate life in a new way. As a premed in bioengineering, I was constantly rushing around and worrying about what would come next. Interning at the Japan House taught me to slow down and take the time to enjoy the moment."
Linna Guan
Bioengineering, '14
"Getting to work and help out at Japan House was one of my favorite experiences at UIUC. It’s rewarding to be a part of events for students and the community, and the events for us, like work days and dinners, were good memories as well. It’s given me an even greater appreciation for arts and culture, as well as the work that goes into running it smoothly and having an impact on the community."
Stephen Salerno
Computer Science, '16
"Interning at the Japan House was the best experience of my life. I could not recommend it enough! I learned so many things while I was an intern, from how to dress myself properly in a yukata to how to prepare and serve bowl of tea. I also gained experience in public speaking and event planning.”
Victoria Machen
East Asian Languages and Culture, '16
Japan House is seeking students who are deeply interested in promoting traditional Japanese Arts and Culture. This program will provide students educational opportunities to learn the basics of Chado, the Japanese Way of Tea, the art of Japanese cooking and many other facets of traditional Japanese Arts. Furthermore, this internship will give students an opportunity to assist in the development of student-focused programming and contribute to outreach efforts through social media.
Applications are now closed. You may email japanhouse@illinois.edu with further questions. Please follow Japan House's social media or subscribe to the email newsletter for updates on the application process.
- Spending approximately 10 hours per week at Japan House throughout the 15-week academic calendar (including class time)
- Giving public tours of Japan House
- Developing and implementing student specific programming
- Updating and maintaining Japan House collections
- Assisting in engagement efforts through social media and social engagement activities
- Designing, developing and crafting products for the annual Mottainai Bazaar in December
- General assistance in organization of Japan House facilities (including hands-on opportunities to work in the Japanese gardens)
- Developing, setting up, and participating in special programming
*Activities and events will be adjusted to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines and regulations. Some activities may be online such as with virtual tours and tea ceremonies.
- Interest in Japanese Arts and Culture
- Ability to work collaboratively with other interns and Japan House administration
- Willingness to interact with a wide array of individuals with respect and utmost consideration
- A sense of commitment and responsibility with willingness to take initiative
- Active status as an enrolled undergraduate of the University of Illinois and registration for ARTJ399: Japan House Internship (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 to 4:00) for fall
- 3 hours of academic credit for ARTJ 399: Japan House Internship
- A chance to become part of the Japan House family
- Community classes, programming, and workshops
- Unique cultural experiences and events
- A beautiful garden to offer tranquility