About

Mission Statement

Regardless of nationality, race, or creed, people have dreams. These dreams, and the paths we take in life may one day lead someone to Japan.

Above all though, the members of the Japanese Student Organization are citizens of the earth. We work to not only improve ourselves and the community but the world as well.

The Japanese Student Organization (JSO) was established by University of Oregon students to support Japanese students in their endeavors in the United States, as well as to introduce Japanese language and culture to non-Japanese students and community members interested in world cultures.

Who We Are and What We Do

In order to accomplish this mission the JSO strives to provide students and the Eugene community with tools for the future. Through the JSO website people can access a wealth of information about Japanese culture, job-hunting, and careers in Japan.

The JSO also holds career seminars and mock interviews with the intention of increasing the employability of those seeking work in Japan, and Japanese companies abroad. In order to increase awareness of the Eugene-Japanese community, and teach interested people about Japanese culture, the JSO organizes various cultural events, such as Japan Night, Japanese Food Festival, Sports Tournament, Japanese Films Series, and JSO Graduation Ceremony.

The JSO also acts as a community, and support network for its members. Members learn leadership and organization skills that will aid them in the future. They also cultivate lasting friendships inside the organization as well as with members of other student groups. It is an environment where Japanese and non-Japanese students can share ideas, experiences, friendship, and responsibilities.

Historical Summary

JSO was founded in 1988 for the purpose of creating a good relationship between Japan and the state of Oregon, in particular the city of Eugene. JSO has achieved this through its various cultural events such as Japan Night, various Career Seminars, Sushi Night, New Student Orientation, a Sports Tournament, and other events.