Table of Contents:
How to use this guide
Before you go
Tips for booking your Flight Health & Wellness Check Passports, Visas, and Immigration Rules Packing Cellphones Money Budget Predictor Apply for a Micro-Credential
Program Information
Introduction Staff Communication with Staff Academics Housing CIS Abroad Activities Arrival Instructions Evaluations
Country / City Information
Cultural Differences Diversity Abroad How to Move Around Things to do on your own Sustainability Tips Mailing Instructions Shopping
Emergencies, Health & Safety
In Case of Emergency Culture Shock Health Insurance Health Onsite Safety Onsite Code of Conduct Independent Travel Form
Voting From Abroad
Student Hub Links:
Micro Credentials

Welcome to
Japan

Steve Hamade

Japan Site Director

The Site Director is CIS Abroad's On-Site staff.  Their job is to support the CIS Abroad students throughout their on-site study abroad experience. They serve as a cultural liaison, organizing excursions, cultural activities, and providing invaluable guidance on everything from the local cuisine to navigating public transportation. If students run into any issues while abroad - Steve is there to help provide resources and guidance.  

Hailing from Toronto, I spent the first part of my life in Canada. Armed with a BA in Philosophy, I eventually joined the JET Programme as a Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) to explore my Japanese-Canadian heritage. I anticipated a brief 2-3 year stint, aiming to pursue an MBA thereafter, but shifted course and transitioned from rural Japan to Tokyo. My trajectory encompassed two roles in private education companies. I’m thrilled to be partnering with CIS Abroad. Family inspires me, and I’m a sports enthusiast who cherishes karaoke and onsen — major factors that tied me to Japan, along with meeting my wife and starting a business.
 

Kate Smart

Director of International Operations

Kate Headshot

The International Operations Director ensures that the study abroad program runs smoothly, overseeing on-site logistics, health and safety measures, and responding to emergencies. Kate works closely with Steve to ensure that the program is set up and ready for students. Then, they work closely together when students are on-site to ensure that things run as smoothly as possible. Kate may work directly with students if they have special requests, experience an emergency, or need additional accommodations when abroad.  

Kate is an international education leader with global experience spanning the U.S., Australia, and Asia-Pacific. Beginning her journey as a high school exchange student in Jamaica and later completing a university exchange in Thailand, she brings a passion for student experience in study abroad programs. She holds a Master of International Studies (Latin American Studies) and a Master of Education (International Education), and began her professional career with IFSA Butler in Australia and the United States. She has since led study abroad and exchange programs for institutions including the University of Canberra, Macquarie University, the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales. Most recently, Kate served as Centre Director for Australia & New Zealand and interim Centre Director for IES Abroad’s inaugural Seoul programs, while also holding the role of Dean of the Asia Pacific. Based in Sydney, Australia, she is thoroughly enjoying leading the APAC and Latin American teams for CEA CAPA.

 

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Communication with Staff

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