Rikkyo University became a pioneer among Japanese universities when it introduced Cooperative Education,a system of collaborative education between the university and the community. The Cooperative Education Internship Office builds motivation in the student body to engage with the community as they consider their own futures. The office coordinates internship programs, develops courses that heighten students' awareness to their connections with the local community, and conducts classes that help students think toward their future careers. The office also engages students in preliminary and follow-up training. Rikkyo University's Cooperative Education structure is one in which students can thoughtfully and continuously add form to their careers throughout their four years of study.