Engaging High School Students at J PREP
On June 28, 2026, J PREP, a leading English language school for students in grades 5 through 12, organized an event at their Shibuya campus aimed at empowering high school students to think critically about their futures. This initiative featured six outstanding graduates who currently study at the prestigious University of Tokyo, leading to an enriching dialogue under the theme of "A Conversation with University Students."
Event Overview
The event was tailored for J PREP students from the 9th to 11th grades. From 14:30 to 15:30, participants gathered in the event hall on the second floor of J PLAZA, where the Tokyo University students shared their experiences related to their academic journey, research pursuits, and how the English skills they developed at J PREP have been instrumental in their current studies.
Insightful Discussions
This interactive session allowed current J PREP students to engage in meaningful conversations about life at university. The alumni offered a glimpse into their personal stories, recounting their academic paths and the study methods they employed during their own time in school. Participants appreciated the authenticity of the discussion, which focused on real-life experiences, including the challenges and excitement that come with being a university student. Their insights offered a compelling perspective on the allure of different academic fields and what one truly experiences in university life.
Participants’ Feedback
The feedback from the attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many students remarked on how valuable it was to hear firsthand accounts from alumni close to their age. One participant expressed, "I found it useful to hear about real-life experiences from their circles at university, as I had never listened to a university student’s story before."
Another mentioned, "I appreciated hearing various viewpoints. My perception of university students, especially those at Tokyo University, has shifted a bit."
An emotional shift was evident when one student shared, "I often find studying difficult and tend to avoid it, but listening to this event motivates me to approach my studies with a more positive attitude."
One student encapsulated the essence of the discussion, noting how it demystified the idea of university students being perfect, stating, “I felt reassured realizing that not all university students have to balance everything perfectly, especially in the humanities.”
A Path Forward
This event served as a catalyst, encouraging students to actively consider their future paths. J PREP recognizes that in today’s rapidly changing society, it is increasingly important for middle and high school students to envision their careers and learning objectives.
To support this initiative, J PREP is committed to offering an educational environment that goes beyond language skills. The curriculum emphasizes five core skills: speaking, writing, reading, listening, and thinking. By creating opportunities for students to engage with alumni and role models, J PREP aims to deliver experiences that connect to lifelong learning.
Future Events and Offerings
Looking ahead, J PREP plans to continue organizing various career-oriented events, including information sessions for continued education and alumni reporting on their acceptance into prestigious universities. This ongoing support reinforces their dedication not only to improving language skills but also to cultivating a comprehensive educational environment that allows students to thrive globally.
About J PREP
Founded in 2012 and officially established in 2013, J PREP has grown into a prominent institution with seven campuses in Tokyo and two in Kanagawa. Catering to students from the 5th grade through high school, J PREP prides itself on developing English language proficiency comparable to that required at top international universities. As of April 2025, the institution has over 10,000 enrolled students, with success stories of students advancing to top domestic and international universities.
Beyond English language instruction, J PREP offers various educational programs, including kids’ English classes, after-school English programs, and international kindergartens, reinforcing their mission to provide holistic English education for a new generation.