Inspire students
Represent Stanford
Experience Japan
We look forward to welcoming passionate Stanford mentors to Japan in Summer 2026
Registration Now Open!
Applications Open on March 1
Application Deadline: April 5th, 2026
Betion USA, Inc. is recruiting 3-5 Stanford University students to lead a unique international summer education program in Tokyo, Japan.
This one-week program brings together motivated Japanese students (ages 8–18) and Stanford mentors for immersive learning in:
- English communication
- Personal storytelling
- Entrepreneurship & social innovation
- Global leadership
- Cultural exchange in one of Japan’s most beautiful summer destinations
All travel and accommodation expenses are fully covered.
Program Location & Dates
Benefits for Selected Stanford Students
All selected mentors will receive:
There is no cost to participate.
Daily Program Structure Structure
Morning Session 10AM~12:15PM
Personal Story Essay Writing
In the morning, students will learn how to express their experiences, values, and ideas through English writing.
Mentors will help participants with:
- Writing personal English essays
- Building confidence in self-expression
- Strengthening communication skills for global learning
- Receiving feedback and improving clarity
- Developing writing skills useful for future study abroad opportunities
Afternoon Session 1:00PM~3:00PM
Entrepreneurship, Social Innovation & Cultural Activities
In the afternoon, students participate in a collaborative team-based program focused on entrepreneurship and social innovation.
Mentors will support participants in:
- Identifying real-world challenges in society
- Brainstorming solutions using design thinking
- Developing creative project ideas
- Preparing for a final pitch and Demo Day presentation
In addition to project work, some afternoons will include special cultural and outdoor experiences unique to Karuizawa, such as:
- Japanese cooking workshops
- Local cultural activities
- Nature exploration and river play
- Community-based learning experiences
These activities create a balanced program that combines innovation, teamwork, and meaningful cultural exchange
Special Stanford Mentor Presentation
3:15PM~3:45PM
Stanford Guest Presentation
Each day, Stanford mentors will also give short talks or interactive sessions about:
- Life at Stanford University
- Student projects and innovation culture
- Global perspectives on education and careers
- Personal journeys and leadership experiences
These sessions provide Japanese students with powerful role models and inspiration for their futures.
InstructorRole & Responsibilities
Applicants must:
- Lead small-group discussions in English
- Provide essay feedback and encouragement
- Support entrepreneurship project teamwork
- Participate in cultural and outdoor activities with students
- Share personal experiences and Stanford insights
- Serve as mentors and role models for younger learners
Japanese support staff will be available, so Japanese language ability is not required.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled at Stanford University as of August 2026, or be a recent graduate (Class of June 2026)
- Have strong communication skills in English
- Enjoy working with children and teens
- Be interested in mentorship, education, innovation, or cultural exchange
Application Process
How to apply:
Step 1
fill in the registration form below to obtain the our Official Application Form which is to open on March1.
Step 2
(first screening) Submit your Official Application Form together with your resume no later than April 5th, 2026.
Step 3
(second screening) remote interview with Betion USA staff by the mid of April
Step 4
Applicants will be informed of the final decision by the end of April.
Step 5
Free trip to Japan!
Selection Timeline
About Betion USA, Inc.
Betion USA is a Palo Alto–based educational organization specializing in Japanese-English cultural and academic exchange programs. Drawing on years of experience in Stanford-area education, Betion USA is launching this new Tokyo summer initiative in 2026.
About Betion USA
Betion USA is a Palo Alto–based educational organization specializing in Japanese-English cultural and academic exchange programs. Drawing on years of experience in bay area, Betion USA is launching this new Karuizawa/Tokyo summer initiative in 2026.
Web: https://betion-usa.com
Representative: ASAKO SATO
Background
After graduating from Keio University, Asako Sato worked at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), where she was involved in the field of intellectual property as well as the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). She later founded her own company and is now based in the Silicon Valley area of California, operating educational programs that connect Japan and the United States.
Through planning and managing summer programs in bay area, she has strongly recognized the importance of exposing children to diverse perspectives and globally benchmarked learning opportunities from an early age. She firmly believes that education is the key to expanding individual potential and increasing future choices.
Silicon Valley in Japan was born from this vision — to nurture the next generation in Japan who will take on the world. To bring this vision to life, a new challenge begins this year in Tokyo.
