What does it mean to be a Senpai (sempai)?
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Senpai (先輩) translates as “Senior” and can be applied in any situation where someone is senior to you. But the meaning for those in a traditionally run martial art school is far deeper than simply ‘Senior’.
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The senpai of a dojo has usually trained for a long time with the instructor. He/she understands the instructors (sensei’s) goals, training methodologies and philosophies, the the one the sensei goes to for any demonstration that is needed in class.
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The role is one of responsibility, and to assist the sensei in the dojo, support
the group by whatever means necessary, and to lead by example in all things ‘Budo’.
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The senpai should take an active, hands-on approach when tutoring lower-ranked (kohai 後輩) students. Either way, the senpai is a powerful factor that influences budo progress.
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In today’s society, and in particular Western Dojo, the senpai role has been diluted somewhat. You may find that the actual expectations and responsibilities in any particular school, differ from similar roles in Japanese dojo. But the title of senpai still retains its essence in commitment to a sensei, the Dojo and responsibility for promoting the art and culture of Japanese and Okinawan Budo.
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Being a senpai also comes with great responsibility and requires an absence of ego on the part of the practitioner when helping others in the dojo. A senpai should consider this a very special honor to be able to help and set a good example for the juniors in the dojo.
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Being a senpai to your kohai is a very important step in your training. Your sensei will watch how you treat others in the dojo, and that, in turn, assists them in making decisions on who is ready for higher grade and who is not. Everything you do in the dojo is a test… from your kihon to your kata, your self-defense to your kumite, and more.
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For the study of karate as Budo, a senpai is someone who is educated, thoughtful, skilled and compassionate. True karate study goes beyond just kicking and punching, it also requires proper character development of the individual. The senpai and kohai relationships assists in creating just that, and helps to build an environment of nurturing and respect in the dojo, where everyone is willing to assist each other to achieve a common goal, to grow the dojo, improve understanding of the art you practice and to help others.
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Being a senpai is a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. The sensei will demand more from you because they trust you and are preparing you for higher levels of training. Therefore you should set the example for others and lead by your actions. 
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