The University of Michigan International Center is hosting an in-person Pre-Departure Orientations (PDO) for new students and parents in Tokyo, Japan! The PDO events will be Saturday, June 6, and a collaborative event with the Pan-Asia Alumni Reunion. Student Leaders are expected to be available from 8:00am-12:00pm.
Our Orientation Leaders will share valuable information with new students and their parents in order to prepare them for their travel to and arrival in Ann Arbor. This is an excellent opportunity to hone in your public speaking skills and serve as a resource for new U-M students from Japan!
Date & Location:
- Imperial Hotel Tokyo
- Saturday, June 6 (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen or someone who has significant experience living in Japan.
- Must be a current student enrolled in a U-M degree program at the time of application.
- Volunteers must be able to stay for the entire duration of the event.
Meetings and Training:
Student Leaders will be required to attend a training in Early May. Additionally, Student Leaders will be asked to attend a refresher meeting one hour prior to the start of the Pre-Departure Orientation event.
Please note that this is a volunteer position and provides no compensation. Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the event sites and any other expenses incurred.
Major Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Greet and welcome students and parents upon arrival.
- Present information to students and their parents about topics related to: traveling to Ann Arbor, adjusting to U.S. culture, life as a student at U-M, transportation, housing, cell phones, etc.
- Review presentation content and provide necessary feedback.
Required Qualifications:
- Excellent listening, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Very comfortable speaking in front of a group of students or parents and answering questions.
- Very familiar with U-M, U-M services, and Ann Arbor.
- Ability to work independently as well as a strong team member.
- Excellent presentation skills.
- Comfortable talking about your own experiences and the adjustments you had to make when you came to U-M and to the U.S.
How to Apply:
Complete the application by Friday, April 3, 2026.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview in mid-April.
Questions? Contact [email protected]