Welcome

 
Rotary Short Term Youth Exchange (STYE)
 
Our Short-Term (3 week) Youth Exchange Program with Japan Rotary District 2670 is in its 48th year.  During those 48 years, the program has served thousands of students and their families, creating lifelong memories and important international experiences for the participants.
 
The goals of STYE are to:
  • Build goodwill and international understanding
  • Experience and learn new cultures
  • Meet new people and make new friends
  • Tour, learn, shop and HAVE FUN
  • Be Safe
The STYE program offers participants the opportunity to learn about Japanese and American culture through the hospitality of local families and communities. Unlike traditional tourist experiences, the exchange creates deep cultural understanding and meaningful connections.
 
Outbound Trip to Japan 2026
 
20 students and leaders from the US will visit Japan from July 1 to July 22.  Participants will depart Newark Airport on July 1 and arrive in Tokyo on July 2.  From there they will fly to Itami Airport near Osaka.  During the 3 week trip, the group will explore and experience Japanese traditions, connect with local students, and form lifelong friendships. They will be hosted by Japanese Rotarians, who will serve as hosts throughout the stay.
 

Participants will explore major cities in southern Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, with a dedicated visit to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum. they will visit cultural, historical and amusement sites.  The group will primarily stay on Shikoku, an island comparable in size to New Jersey. There they will enjoy the unique experience of living with a different host family in each of Shikoku's four prefectures.  It is a much different experience than a typical tour.

The group will return to Newark Airport on July 22.

Inbound Trip from Japan 2026

On July 30, 20 students and their leaders from Japan will arrive in New Jersey.  They will stay for three weeks, departing on August 19.  They will stay with different host families and visit historic, cultural, sports, and amusement locations in New Jersey, New York City and Pennsylvania.  

Much of the time will be spent touring as a group accompanied by US students and Rotary leaders.  Sites will include the United Nations, MOMA, Museum of Natural History, Six Flags, Point Pleasant Beach, Liberty Bell, Sterling Hill Mine Museum and Grounds for Sculpture.  They will also attend a Phillies game that benefits The Rotary Foundation Polio Fund.   On weekends, they will spend time with their host family visiting local attractions and learning about American lifestyle.

How To Apply To Be A Student Participant

To be a STYE student participant:

  • You must be a high school student between the age of 15 and 17 on July 1, 2026.  You cannot turn 18 until after July 22, 2026.
  • You must be nominated by a Rotary Club located in the following NJ counties: Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, Union or Warren
  • Participation requires the written permission of your parents or legal guardians
  • You will be required to submit a detailed application and medical form
  • You and your parents or guardians will be required to participate in a 30 minute interview with STYE leaders.  The interview is done virtually via Zoom.
  • You and your parents will be required to attend an orientation meeting to be held May 9 in Madison NJ.
  • You must have a valid and active US Passport
 
The cost of the trip is $4,500 all inclusive, including air fare.
Deadline for application is April 30
 
If you are interested in participating in the Japan Exchange 2026, click here to request a link to the student application form.

 

Be Part of the Program - Become a Host Family

Host families are an important part of the exchange experience.  Host Families gain firsthand experience with the culture, lifestyle and perspective of our guest students, and you contribute in a direct way to their impression of the people and culture of our country.

The students are paired by gender, and each pair will typically stay with a host family for about one week.  Students may share a bedroom but must have separate beds.  You may request males or females.  Host families with high-school students are encouraged.  Non-Rotarians can serve as host families.

Most weekdays are group travel days.  On group days, the host families provide breakfast and then drop the two students off at a designated bus stop.   The students spend the day visiting scheduled events and attractions.  At the end of the day you pick them up at the same location and learn all about their adventures at your evening meal.  On weekend family days, the students are with you for the entire day so you can plan activities and show them your community.

Host families are responsible for meals, accommodations, activities, supervision and care.  A training webinar is conducted to answer all of your questions.  An online application and background check is required for adults 18 years or older that will be living in your home while the students are staying with you.  

If you are interested in helping to host our visiting students, click here to request a host application.