“Japan and the United States are likely to go through some serious ups and downs in the early part of this century as China rises and the Japanese and American economies go through some bumps.  We need all the glue we can to keep the countries working together, and one of the best kinds of glue is that which results from close relations of young people on both sides of the Pacific, as in the JASC.”

Dr. Ezra Vogel, Harvard University

JASC National Advisory Committee

In addition to cultural and social offerings, JASC offers participants a variety of academic experiences and challenges.  Delegates should conduct independent research prior to the conference to familiarize themselves with the basic domestic and international issues facing both countries.

All delegates will participate in and contribute directly to a series of small group discussions called roundtables. The small group format provides delegates a chance to explore the depth of issues and perspectives among peers from both countries.

Each Conference participant is required to write and present a research paper on a topic of interest based on his or her roundtable subject to help build and share expertise among the group.  The papers will form the basis of the roundtable discussions and help brief other delegates on your topic of interest.  At the end of the Conference, each roundtable group will make a presentation of the table’s conclusions and findings at the Final Forum.

In addition to research-related activities, delegates will also have opportunities to participate directly in panel discussions, make speeches, and lead small group discussions as well as special projects.