TAKUZO ISHIDA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

We are extremely honored to announce the Takuzo Ishida Memorial Scholarship. We would like to thank Mr. Ishida for his contributions to the Japanese community in Minnesota; his family for allowing us to make this scholarship in his name; and all those who contributed to the memorial fund. We wish to carry on Mr. Ishida's legacy of uniting the people of Minnesota and Japan by awarding this scholarship to the student most dedicated to following in Mr. Ishida's footsteps. For more information about Mr. Ishida's contributions to our community please click here.

The Japan America Society of Minnesota (JASM) will award the Takuzo Ishida Memorial Scholarship to a student enrolled in a Minnesota high school who wants to broaden their knowledge of Japan through a combination of study and travel. The selection committee has the discretion to award up to $1,000 for the scholarship. The awards are specifically to be used for travel to or within Japan before, during, or after the student’s specified term(s) of study for a time period of one month or more.

Oct. 7: Announce the scholarship and distribute applications
Dec. 1: Start accepting applications
Jan. 6: Deadline for applications
During January: People who have been notified will have interviews with scholarship committee members.
February: Winner of the Scholarship will be notified

Application Guidelines (PDF)

The application process consists of the completion and submission of the following items:

1. Application Form (PDF, Google Form)
2. Official transcript(s) from all high schools the applicant has attended.
3. Cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher
4. Two letters of recommendation. These letters should come from a faculty member or a member of the applicant’s community of residence who knows the applicant well and who can attest to the applicant’s desire to spend time studying and traveling in Japan.  (Letter of Recommendation Form)
5. An essay that addresses these questions: Why do you want to study and travel in Japan?  What is your goal for this experience? How do you intend to use the money from the scholarship? The essay must be no longer than two double-spaced 12 pt. typewritten pages (500 words).  
6. A copy of the letter of acceptance from the intended program of study in Japan.
7. The study abroad program must be at least two weeks.

The selection committee will review all applications and select finalists for interviews. These interviews will be held in the JASM office during January. Applicants unable to participate in the interview process may be disqualified by the selection committee.