USTEP (University-wide Student Exchange Program) orientation and welcome event 2025 Spring　

On April 3rd, an orientation and welcome event for new exchange students of USTEP (University-wide Student Exchange Program) was held at the iconic Yasuda Auditorium.

This spring, 90 outstanding undergraduate students from partner universities around the world have arrived to begin their USTEP Type U exchange at UTokyo, attending classes at both Hongo and Komaba campuses. The orientation also included a warm introduction to the faculty members affiliated with the Center for Global Education, and provided valuable guidance to help students settle into their new academic journey in Japan.

UTokyo students also participated in this orientation as “USTEP Partners” to welcome and build rapport with the new exchange students. USTEP Partners is an initiative that began in 2023 to provide opportunities for students to engage in international exchange with each other. The second part of the welcome event was planned by the Partners, led by the organizing members, and consisted of presentations on student life at UTokyo and the fascinating aspects of Japan, as well as recreational activities to get to know each other. Former USTEP students, including a current Master’s student as well as an alum who is now an English language teacher working in Japan, also joined the event and gave warm, humorous welcome speeches filled with practical advice. Despite the rainy weather, the atmosphere inside was nothing short of vibrant—buzzing with laughter, conversation, and anticipation for the months ahead.

Welcome, all the students from our partner institutions!