St. Pete Standard

The City of St. Petersburg has opened applications for its Student Ambassador Program, a cultural exchange with Takamatsu, Japan. High school juniors residing in St. Pete can apply until March 7.

This program allows selected students to visit Takamatsu for up to three weeks during the summer, staying with local families to experience Japanese culture directly. In return, students from Takamatsu will visit St. Petersburg and stay with host families to learn about American culture. Hosting a student is required for eligibility, and all potential host families must complete an interview process.

Candidates should be dedicated students who exhibit civic pride and confidence in representing their city abroad. After returning, participants are expected to share their experiences through presentations to peers and community groups, including the Mayor and City Council.

Mayor Kenneth T. Welch emphasized the significance of this initiative: "The Student Ambassador Program is an incredible opportunity for St. Pete students to broaden their horizons and foster meaningful cultural connections. It's an experience that not only shapes the lives of our young ambassadors but also strengthens the bond between St. Pete and our sister city, Takamatsu."

JoEllen Schilke, Executive Director of the St. Petersburg International Folk Festival Society (SPIFFS), expressed enthusiasm about continuing the exchange: "SPIFFS is really excited to again do the Takamatsu Student Ambassador Exchange... It was especially rewarding when the Japanese student ambassadors got to experience some of the best parts of St. Pete with our ambassadors, and see their friendships blossom."

For more details on applying or learning more about this program, interested parties can visit www.stpete.org/international.