Each year, MIRA coordinates a student exchange program (SEP) for Manitowoc-area high schoolers. A trip of a lifetime, student ambassadors have the opportunity to experience traditional and popular Japanese culture, the beauty of Japan’s mountains and oceanside, daily life in Japan with a host family, and the opportunity to make lifelong friendships abroad. The six students selected for the annual experience benefit by gaining greater understanding and respect of another culture and prepares students for life in our increasingly global society.
The annual application period is November to March and consists of an essay and two letters of recommendation. After applying, applicants will be contacted for personal interviews with the MIRA student exchange program committee. Students are responsible for their round-trip airfare from Chicago to Tokyo-Narita (approx. $2,400-2,800), traveler’s insurance, U.S. passport-related fees, and personal spending money while abroad.
Traditionally, a delegation of students from Manitowoc visit Japan in late July and return to spend time in Manitowoc with the Japanese delegation in early August. The 2025 student exchange program is set for July 20 - August 8, 2025.
Applications for the 2025 student exchange program are now being accepted. The application deadline is March 6, 2025. Complete applications should be submitted to tourism@manitowoc.org. For full application details, read our brochure!
For questions, contact the Tourism Department at tourism@manitowoc.org and 920-686-3508. Follow Manitowoc International Relations Association on Facebook for current updates!