Do I have to attend all 8 sessions?

We value your attendance because each participant is responsible for a different speaking role every week to complete a meeting. However, things do happen - we ask you to inform us in advance when your attendance is not possible due to other urgent matters (e.g. sudden illness, school exams, major family events, etc).

If you foresee any difficulty to join most sessions, we will encourage you to participate our future sessions that work better for your schedule.

Students with max 1 absence can receive a completion certificate.

Is the March 20th orientation session mandatory?

Yes. We are going to provide a lot of information including the meeting flow and your first assignment at this session. It will help you start easily, and above all, you will meet your new fellow students there!

Can I use my smartphone or ipad?

Personal computers are strongly recommended. This is because PCs will allow you to have a full-screen view of participants' faces when there is a shared chart or image. iPad and smartphones are more limited to view all participants' faces, which are important feedback cues for public speaking.

We can lend PCs to students in need for free of charge.

Can I use languages other than English (e.g. Chinese or Japanese)?

Sendai Global YLP is conducted in English, and we have mentors fluent in multiple languages to assist students when needed. English proficiency test is not required for students to join this program. However, it is a learning-by doing program, so students must be willing to speak English (not passive listening) during the session.

How much homework do I get every week?

Each student is assigned to take a speaking role every week. There are clear guides for each assignment for students to study before every meeting. Mentors are available to assist your preparation as well.

On average, students spend an hour every week to prepare their assignment.

The preparation time varies based on the assigned speaking role. For example, a 4-6 minute speech may take longer than a short joke to prepare.

Can I use the gmail account provided by my school?

No. Please refrain from using your school gmail account because you are sometimes not allowed to receive emails from external groups or organizations.