Nebraska Wesleyan University senior Luke Gregerson admits he’s watched his share of the Travel Channel.

“From music to television to food, I spent a lot of time in awe watching the Travel Channel and getting as much Asian media as I could,” said the English and music major from Omaha. “Later on in school, I was able to learn more about Japan in a historical sense, often focusing around music and poetry, and my interest in the country only continued to grow from there.”

Following his graduation in May, Gregerson will move to Japan where he will spend a year helping primary school instructors teach English. This month he learned he was accepted to the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program.

Now in its 31styear, the JET Program promotes a grassroots international exchange between Japan and other nations. Those accepted into the prestigious program teach English in Japanese schools or work in Japanese communities on international exchange activities. 

“Being able to branch out from the Midwest American culture that I have become very accustomed with is easily one of the biggest draws,” said Gregerson, who has traveled internationally once for the University Choir’s tour to Ireland. “Being able to see parts of the world that I never have previously, and trading global traditions and experiences with others is incredibly exciting.”