Student Exchange Program
2026-2027
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Student Ambassador Exchange Program 2027
Travel & Connect
The Sequim–Shisō Sister City Association is preparing for a future student ambassador exchange connecting Sequim students with Shisō, Japan through cultural exchange, friendship, and community connection.
What is the Student Ambassador Exchange Program?
Learn & Experience
The Student Ambassador Exchange Program (SAEP) is a planned cultural exchange opportunity for Sequim-area students to visit Shisō, Japan and experience daily life, culture, and international friendship firsthand.
Students my participate in: cultural activities, community events, and guided travel opportunities.
Program details are still being developed.
Why Does Cultural Exchange Matter?
Grow & Discover
International exchange helps students build confidence, adaptability, communication skills, and global awareness.
Experiencing another culture firsthand encourages empathy, independence, and a broader understanding of the world beyond the classroom.
Student ambassadors represent Sequim abroad while strengthening the friendship between our two communities.
Who May Be Eligible?
Lead & Represent
The program is expected to be open to Sequim-area students, current 8th and 9th graders, who are interested in leadership, cultural learning, and community involvement.
Final eligibility requirements and application details will be announced as planning continues.
Planning for 2027
Plan & Prepare
The exchange is currently being planned for late June or early July 2027.
Families should expect some financial responsibility. These costs may include airfare, passport fees, and personal spending.
Selected students and the Sister City Association will be actively working on fundraising and sponsorship opportunities to help support expenses.
Program details, dates, and costs may change as planning develops.
Support Student Ambassadors
Donate & Sponsor
Community donations and sponsorships help make cultural exchange opportunities more accessible for students.
Support from local businesses, organizations, and individuals helps strengthen the long-term friendship between Sequim and Shisō while investing in future community leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the program finalized?
Planning is currently underway for 2027.
Are applications open?
Not yet! We are expecting to host a Student Ambassador Exchange Program Info Night around late May, then plan to open the application process early June.
How long is the trip?
We are tentatively planning for a 10-day trip.
1 day for travel to Japan
4 days in bigger cities like Kyoto and Nara
4 days in Shiso
1 day for travel back to Sequim
Program details are still being developed.
Who May Participate?
The application process will be open to current 8th & 9th graders. They will have finished their 9th & 10th grade years during the time of the trip.
When is the trip?
We are tentatively planning for late June or Early July 2027.
This time of year is called "tsuyu", the rainy season, in Japan. It will be warm, humid and rainy during the trip.
Plan for intense humidity.
Will fundraising opportunities be available?
The Sister City Association plans to organize fundraising and sponsorship opportunities to help cover expenses.
Students are expected to participate in these efforts.
