FAQs

How much English proficiency is required?

Even students who were previously anxious about English have been able to participate in the program without any issues. The local camp instructors and assistants are accustomed to guiding non-English speaking students, creating an environment that makes it easier to overcome language barriers. For those who are still concerned, we offer pre-program online English classes.

I’m worried because it’s my child’s first time abroad.

Several Japanese staff members accompany from Narita Airport, ensuring a closely supervised environment where any concerns can be immediately addressed. Continuous communication via Line and other means allows for prompt assistance with any issues during the camp.

I’m concerned that my child’s studies will fall behind during the two weeks abroad.

If staying with Japanese staff, daily evening study sessions are conducted by experienced Japanese instructors, ensuring that learning progresses smoothly. Some participants aiming for junior high school entrance exams (sixth graders) have also attended.

What about meals?

Meals are prepared by accompanying Japanese staff from Japan. Occasionally, there are also dining out options. Participants in the Stanford University summer camp will have their lunches at the university cafeteria. For those staying in the Stanford University dormitories, all meals will be at the university cafeteria.

Can you arrange airline tickets?

We can assist with arrangements (airfare is not included in the program fee and will incur additional charges).

Tell me about staying in Stanford University dormitories.

Staying in the Stanford University dormitories is available for ages 10 and above (as of the end of December of the year of camp participation). The dormitories consist of single, double, or triple rooms. For children under 9, they will commute from the accommodation of Japanese staff. The dormitories are equipped with beds, coin-operated laundry, and Wi-Fi.

What happens if my child gets sick or injured locally?

We will guide you to hospitals affiliated with the overseas travel insurance you have enrolled in.

Who are the instructors for the STEM camp at Stanford University?

The program instructors are adults residing in the United States who have been recruited from top universities such as Stanford University and New York University and have received training in teaching. Every year, these instructors continue to be hired by some of the world’s most famous technology companies such as Google, EA, Disney, and Microsoft.

Tell me about the stay in the Menlo Park accommodation with Japanese staff.

It will be a detached house in Menlo Park, one of the world’s finest luxury residential areas. It is a 5-minute drive from Stanford University. Children can spend their time freely in a natural environment and have invaluable experiences. Japanese staff will prepare each meal and take care of the children’s health. In the evening, study time is also provided.

Could you tell me about the activities at the Vision Summer School

We will visit famous IT companies in Silicon Valley, such as Google, Meta, and Apple, and in San Francisco, we’ll experience local attractions like riding a cable car. In 2024, we also plan to extend our trip to Yosemite National Park for a hiking adventure. Participants in the one-week course will only visit the Silicon Valley companies. Additionally, we will invite guest speakers who have founded or worked at companies in Silicon Valley to share their experiences. This provides an opportunity for the children to be inspired by business in the United States and to find role models.

Please explain the process until departure to the US.

Inquiry → Course selection → Payment → Formal application for course participation and airline ticket arrangement → Various procedures (ESTA acquisition, submission of pre-departure documents) → Departure to the US.

What sets you apart from other companies?

While other companies offer services for gathering and dispersing at local American airports, we prioritize services that cater to the needs of your precious children. With our service, Japanese staff accompany you from Narita Airport, allowing even young children or those traveling abroad for the first time to go through immigration and spend time on board with peace of mind. Also, the accompanying Japanese staff enable travel on Zipair, the international LCC of JAL, significantly reducing airfare costs (approximately 200,000 yen) (*). Of course, Japanese staff also accompany on the return flight and hand over to the parents at Narita Airport, providing reassurance. (*Comparison of prices between ANA and JAL flights with child accompanying support) Furthermore, daily learning guidance is available at the accommodation of Japanese staff.

Is it safe?

Menlo Park and the surrounding areas of Stanford are upscale residential neighborhoods, making it a safe area where elementary school students walk to school alone. So, please rest assured.