Remember this. If you get to the interview stage, they already like you from what they saw on the application. The interview is the only chance they have to make sure what you put forward is the truth.
I had my interview a week ago and these were what they asked me. 1. Tell me about yourself. 2. Why do you want to participate in JET? 3. How do you imagine yourself as an ALT? 4. Would homesickness be a problem for you? 5. What do you plan to do as a cultural ambassador? I think they ran out of time because I gave long answers so after those 5 questions, they asked me to do a demo. Just sharing because your vid really helped me with my preparation! :)
Happy to hear that my vid helped! and thanks for sharing what questions you got--I'm sure other prospective JETs will appreciate it. What demo did you get asked to do? And I hope you get the position!!
If you get asked to do a lesson in the interview, they're not expecting a full lesson plan with games and activities and things like that. Instead you'll probably get asked to present a topic - a holiday, colours, your hometown etc. - and they just want to see that you have presentation skills, you don't talk too fast, and you can handle the unexpected. It's not something to freak out over! My interview was a few weeks ago now, but I can't give any insider tips because we were all sworn to secrecy before entering. Just remember that if you go in there knowing what's expected of an ALT, what the JET Programme aims to achieve and why YOU are the best person to fit that role, you'll be golden. GOOD LUCK!
Thanks for clarifying! My friend also told me that she was asked to "explain the difference between 'over' and 'across' to Japanese students with low level English" in her interview, so it really could be anything! Explaining a grammar point may sound scary in the interview, but really you WILL be doing it fairly often when you're in Japan. So just try to explain in the best way you can guys!! No need to fret :)
Aaa, thank you so much for the support! Japan has always been a source of inspiration, and I'm hoping the live experience gained on JET will help me make more and better videos/films in the future. :)
I had my interview yesterday and I left the room feeling great! Most of my questions came straight from my SOP and application. I was thrown off because I didn’t prepare for it but it was still easy for me to talk about it. One of the questions I asked was well received. My Japanese section was eh. I feel dumb because the interviewer had to ask me multiple times but i was able to answer.
I got notification the other day that I got an interview, so now I'm here preparing in advance. Just wanted to let you know that your videos are still helpful and I watched a few of them during the application process and it helped me calm myself and write a good enough application to be where I am now!
Just had my JET interview, your video helped me so much!! As a fellow aspiring Asian JET I'm in a similar boat, so this has been so helpful to watch! Thank you so much!
my interview was in february 2005 so i don’t remember it that well, but one thing they did ask was the differences between canadian and american cultures (i am canadian and this interview took place in toronto). like, from a japanese perspective, canada and america look more or less the same, so i had to get into why that wasn’t the case. (shout out to sapporo ALTS in the mid-2000s wee~)
I wonder how many views your video spikes by during late January of each year haha I got my interview in early Feb and I'm nervous as hell! Your down-to-earth attitude in this video really helps calm me down. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OTHER APPLICANTS!
My interview is in January and I'm nervous as hell especially for the Japanese questions and possible lesson segment. I did two semesters of Japanese but that was 2 years ago and trying to brush up now is basically like relearning from scratch. I'm making sure I know the words "I don't know", "Can you repeat that?" so at least if I'm ignorant I can be ignorant in Japanese. 😂 I'm happy for your tips and insight though! Thank you!
Yea! I wouldn't worry about the Japanese questions so much since it technically doesn't require Japanese skills to get in. The lesson segment though, just think about how you'd explain grammar/meanings to students the most easy way you can!
Loved this, it was very reassuring. I really liked your examples for games and lessons. I feel like if I was asked that I would freeze up, so I'm wanting to prepare. Please do a video on lessons or games you have done to teach grammar!
Tell me something about yourself is largely an icebreaker and also considered one of the VERY WORST possible interview questions by leading HR specialists in America!
Had my interview a few days ago and they didn’t ask me any difficult questions. I wasn’t asked to do any mock lessons either, but maybe it’s because I have teaching experience. A lot of questions I was asked was based on my personal statement and it seems like they just want to make sure you are who you say you are on your paper.
Hey Ivy! Happy to hear that you find my videos helpful :) :) I'm sure you aced your interview, so now try to sit back and relax!!! Hehe and don't forget to keep me posted on your results! Good luck!!!
CARA!!! I GOT IN!!! I'm beyond excited!!! I just want to say thank you for being so candid and personal in your videos ... It feels like I got a glimpse of what my next year might look like!
Omg Ivy CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So excited for you girl!!!! Wishing you all the best for the new year, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need any help! Don't forget to let me know where you'll be too when you know!!!!!!
I want to be a JET so bad. The problem is I am 29 years old and don't have a bachelors. It's always been my dream to teach language abroad. I am applying for college now - but by the time I finish I'll be in my 30's. Will I still have a chance?
mimiculmore Hey man. I'm also interested in the JET program as well. I got my Associates in 2016 so I have 2 years left to get my Bachelors and apply. The thing is that i'm planning on working for a few years to save money for the program and i'm about to be 24. I'll probably be 28-30 by the time I get my Bachelors and apply for the program so it's definitely not too late for neither of us.
Hi Cara! Thank you for sharing your experience about JET programme. I'm a little hesistant to apply cause' I heard it's really competitive, but after I watched your videos it inspires me to try my luck. Thank youu!
I watched your video, so I was expecting the interviewers to be friendly... but they weren't and it really threw me off! Well, the Japanese guy was nice and smiled a lot, but the ex JET girl didn't smile once and seemed like she didn't want to be there at all. I came in and was expecting to be able to shake their hands and introduce myself, but the girl quickly said "Come in. Sit there", and immediately I was thrown off and was like "oh crap". She asked me to do the impromptu lesson plan on teaching about Inuit in Canada to beginner students (since I'm Canadian) - a topic she apparently pulled out of the air? I don't even really know about Inuit in Canada. I went up to give the lesson and asked if I could pretend I had flash cards or something, since I practiced a lot pretending I had flash cards or tangible aids... She said that I was only allowed to use the whiteboard and markers that were presently available... So I attempted to teach about Inuit in Canada while using nothing but a whiteboard and markers.... I drew a picture of Canada, wrote "CANADA" on the board and got them to repeat it. Then I drew a picture of an Inuit person and circled the north of Canada and wrote "INUIT" on the board. The Japanese interviewer was playing along and repeating after me, but the girl kept saying in Japanese "sensei wakaranai". I get it that sometimes kids don't understand what the teacher is saying, but I felt like this girl was trying purposefully to make the interview very hard and stressful for me. I was in the process of drawing an igloo (lol), and she said "Ok, that's enough. Please sit down again". The whole time I kept smiling and stayed positive, and I think I did a good job answering questions, but the girl seemed utterly unimpressed with me and with life in general. I get that people sometimes have a bad day... but now I'm sooooo nervous because I have no way to gague how I did. It was not a good experience for me at all. As soon as the interview was over I felt like crying :(
Omg Tae I'm so sorry to hear about your experience >_< It must've been very frustrating to approach or even impress the ex-JET girl... But what I can say is that, if she was mean to you, she was probably mean to everyone else so I don't think you should take it too personally! The impromptu lesson definitely was a challenge and I've heard of stories where interviewers pretended like the rebellious students who just say "wakaranai" all the time (and it does sometimes happen in real life so..) so you're not the only one!!!! How was your interaction with the Japanese guy though? The ex-JET girl wasn't the only judge and I'm sure that if the Japanese guy could tell that you were trying your best to smile and be positive and answer their questions in your best ability, you should be fine. Ah man I wish I could give you a hug :( I hope good news come your way comes April though >_< Keep me posted! And feel better!!!
Wow, you're so nice!!!! Thank you! You're amazing!! xD The Japanese guy was very, well, Japanese-like. He said thank you after every answer I gave and smiled a lot and was sort of shy. You're right - if she was like that to me then she was probably like that with everyone else as well. That's actually really sad and she probably upset a lot of people :( Hopefully the Japanese guy will see that I was doing my best and I'll get accepted. If not I'll just apply to another company because I really want to do this! lol
Haha nooo I want all my followers to get accepted to the program and be able to achieve their dream :D I think the Japanese guy would be a better person to gauge your performance from! Haha that said though, it's all over now so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy your friends and family's presence! (Because if you get in, you will be missing them loooaddsssss!!) If JET doesn't work out and you need help applying to private companies, shoot me a message. I have a friend here who isn't a JET so he may be able to answer any questions you may have! Good luck!!! :)
+Tae That sucks, did you actually get into JET or not ? It was quite sometime ago when I worked in Japan, but you can meet all sorts of people. I think it is impossible to say whether they will be friendly or not. Some JETs are complete bastards, even worse are people who are in management positions in Eikaiwa or private dispatch companies. On the other hand there are lots of friendly people too. It is unfortunate you got that nasty interviewer, but that person is most probably like that to everyone.
Hey! Currently getting ready for my interview and I’m freaking out a bit 😳 I was wondering when you applied what you placed your Japanese level at? Thank you so much! Your videos have been helping me a lot
Hey Cara! I'm so happy I found your videos, I'm in the process of applying to JET and I'm really excited about the possibility of going to Japan. I had a pretty specific, and possibly weird, question about the interview. In my SOP, I mentioned that I got into Japanese culture through my dad (he traveled there a lot). He would always bring back gifts and tell stories. I mentioned my favorite gift he bought me (a jacket from Okinawa that I still have) and I've heard they really quiz you about your SOP in the interview. Would it be weird/unprofessional to bring it to the interview as a visual since I mentioned it in my SOP? I want to really stand out to them, but I don't want to be "too individual" to the point where I'm seen as unprofessional or nuts haha. Another question I had that relates to my SOP and the interview is how to talk about the Japanese students. Should I refer to them as "the students" or "my students"? I don't want to seem over confident or assume I have the job, but I want to make that connection to show that I'm serious about JET and thinking ahead. It's been a while since I've had to write a paper for anything, so I know I may be getting ahead of myself, but I just want to be prepared. :) Thanks for the videos!
Hey Katelyn! I'm glad you like my videos! The jacket question is quite a pickle! On one hand we're not supposed to know what the questions are but on the other hand it'd help you stand out... maybe put it in a small bag (depending on how much you can squish it) so you that you could bring that with you into the interview room? In that case, you have the choice of whether or not to show it and it won't look too weird. What cha think? :D For your second question, I'm actually going to post a video on writing the SoP this week and will be attaching a link to my own SoP to the video so make sure you check that out! In general, though, in order to make that connection and not seem overconfident, you could write "my students in the future, if I were accepted"? Hope this helps! Good luck :)
Thanks so much for the advice and responding. I'll look forward to the SoP video! That's a good idea for the jacket. I'll probably put it in my bag and read the situation lol.
Is it okay to say in the personal statement that my long term goal is to be a language teacher in Japan? Or would this be viewed negatively for the JET program? I want to be honest, but not at the expense of ruining my application. XD Thanks
I wish i saw this video before my interview. I had my interview yesterday and I think I did okay, but not very great. It's really bumming me out right now :( .
Hey!!!! It's over now so be easier on yourself! I think that the interviewers just wanted to see your personality and your reasons to go to Japan, so if you weren't acting weirdly or antisocially you should be fine. Relax a little! The next two months are gonna be a long wait >_
+ khly del mundo I think a lot of people feel like this afterward because we put so much effort into it and we really want to succeed, so we feel uncertain about everything while we're in the waiting period. I feel the same way you do, so don't worry - you're not alone. I think even if we aren't accepted this time around we shouldn't give up because we can always apply again or apply to a different company. Stay positive! :D
Thanks Tae for the awesome positivity! Guess what? Even til THIS DAY I'm still thinking about how I could've bettered my responses at the JET interview.. and this applies to almost every other thing that I've applied to and interviewed at.. There's always room to improve! And I indeed have JET friends here who have applied twice or even three times, and some get in as alternates so really, anything can happen. That said though, I hope you get it in the first round and try to sit back and relax for now! Good luck :)
Hi! I just had an interest on JET program recently and considering on applying, your videos are really helpful. I have a question though, can someone apply to JET even without a work experience? I just graduated from college.
Hey Jericho! The answer is yes -- I came on JET straight after college so that's not a problem at all. The committee just wants to see that you have a genuine interest in coming to Japan so yea. If you have related experience then it's a bonus; if not, it's no biggie!
Artistry Minds Studios it’s the best thing in the world. I have absolutely no regrets. If you want to do this, give it everything you’ve got and don’t look back. Good luck.
Hello Teacher. I always watch your videos. I would like to ask how do you correct your JTE once he or she commits a mistake while teaching without embarssing him or her in front of the class? Thank you.
honestly, depends on the teacher. if you have a good relationship with them and are friendly, you can try bringing it up after the fact in the staff room (never in front of the class omg). but….you also might just want to let it go. consider possible reactions and repercussions. one time my JTE asked me in front of the class if i pronounce “often” with the “t” and i said i think it’s right both ways (i’m canadian). but the textbook says the “t” isn’t pronounced, so he didn’t believe me.😅
Hi. Thank you for your very informative video. I really need your opinion on this matter, because I'm planning to move to Japan to teach English. Here is my story: I'm 26 and will get my masters at teaching English (ESL/EFL) in about a year. I'm from Iran and our education level is far below the International level, so I don't have high hopes in finding a job in Japan (even though I'm among the top 30 nationwide); so I plan to get my PhD and teach at a lower level, making it a kind of bargain for companies that will hopefully hire me. Many tell me that with this kind of hard work I can make a far better life here in Iran, but honestly since I was a kid I wanted to go to Japan or Norway and since I'm from the damned Middle East, I can't move to Scandinavia, that leaves Japan. It is a bit hard for us Iranians to get into Japan but it is possible. I have many questions and problems about living and working in Japan. here are a few: 1. I've heard that Japanese value working hard very much and working hours are much longer there, exactly how long is working hours for teachers in Japan? 2. Can I get a job without any experience? 3. How different is the teaching system from the US teaching system (we are learning US teaching system here in Iran)? 4. Can I survive with 200,000 yen monthly? Compared to US or Canada how are living expenses in Japan? 5. How do they view teachers that are not native English speakers? with the surplus of native speakers do they even need us? will they hire someone with a PhD to teach at at least elementary school level? 6. How hard was the clash of cultures at the first few month of your visit? Can I cope with that? 7. they have these "home room" classes, what are those about? Do I need to do anything specific to get ready for them? 8. I've heard they are very strict about work and workplace etiquette there. please explain a bit if at all possible. 9. Do I need to take any special courses or have some specific degrees to find work there? 10. Will I have free time at weekends to explore Japan? 11. Any age requirements for teachers? 12. Anything else that I need to worry about? And please share some tips or tricks if you happen to know any. Thanks in advance.
Hi Arash! Thank you for the questions. I hope you'll be able to get a job in Japan eventually! Here are my answers to your questions: 1. ALTs don't usually work overtime. My hours are 8am-4pm but my Japanese coworkers probably work from 7am-9pm 2. Yes. I came with only a bachelors degree. 3. I don't know about that. But the Japanese teaching style is quite rigid and textbookish if I have to describe it. 4. Please refer to this video of mine: th-cam.com/video/8zu5Nr8tCd0/w-d-xo.html 5. The JET program does state that you have to be a native speaker to teach, but honestly if your English is good enough (determined by the committee), then you should be fine. I'm not a native either, but that's exactly how I can motivate my students to study English as a second language! And bachelor's is honestly all you need to teach here. Earning a PhD may be too much for it... they may think that you're overqualified to be honest. 6. Please refer to this video of mine: th-cam.com/video/gMxHBSWX-cY/w-d-xo.html 7. Homeroom activites are not your responsibilties; the students just reflect on the day and give reports, etc. 8. Please refer to this article I wrote: blog.gaijinpot.com/bad-alt-unwritten-rules-japanese-schools/ 9. Only a Bachelors, TESOL is not required. 10. Yes. 11. No. 12. Hope this video helps: th-cam.com/video/N_cfXl7PSPQ/w-d-xo.html You can watch my other videos to learn more about teaching/living in Japan! I think I've covered quite a bit of what life is like here. Good luck, mate!
So I'm currently in the process of applying for the JET program. I basically don't know any Japanese. I can read hiragana, I know many words and phrases, I can introduce myself, and I can ask for directions and say other basic travelling necessities. However I am entirely unlikely to be able to answer any questions I may be asked in Japanese. Do you have any insight or tips for my interview to overcome my lack of Japanese?
There are a few sites out where you can practice your conversational skills by talking to a native/fluent Japanese speaker. This won't really help with pronunciation and all that, but it will definitely help with formulating sentences and actually having conversations!
You obviously passed so for you it doesn’t matter but I think you still could have navigated the Japanese portion if you formatted your answer in a simple way. For example, instead of saying it’s a tropical climate you could say it’s hot, there are beaches, it’s an island, there’s X types of animals, etc and be as detailed as possible with using simple vocab or whatever you’re able to say. Just a tip for those who will be getting interviewed next year, hopefully it helps
I have my interview next Monday and I'm so worried about the Japanese language section! I didn't realize they would ask in depth questions. On my application, I said I have introductory Japanese...and by that I mean, counting, saying hello, excuse me. But if I had to carry a conversation, I wouldn't understand or be able to respond >_
mooncake don't worry so much about it! If they ask something that you can't understand, just tell them so :) the distinction between introductory, elementary, intermediate and advanced is quite vague and dependent on the applicant's judgment, so I don't think they'd think that you lied! If they ask what you know, then tell them honestly what you can do. You'll be fine! Don't think they'd trouble you too much with that :D Good luck and lemme know how it went!
which option did you state on your application? i took japanese for a year, but stopped taking lessons in winter 2015. so i put that i know elementary japanese in writing/speaking/listening. i mostly understood the questions you said they asked, except for the nouns (sea, mountain, "favorite place") etc. how should i go about this?
hmmmm when's your interview? perhaps you could try to build up basic vocabulary for now? As I mentioned in the above comment, I don't think that the interviewers would trouble you too much or give questions that are too difficult! But it'd defo help to know a few main words and try to answer them the best you could. and make sure you know how to say "one more time, please" (もう一回、お願いします) and "can you please speak slowly?" (ゆっくり言ってください)! Good luck!
I speak three languages: English, Spanish and French and I am a traveler, so I had this idea to visit Japan for a while working as an English teacher but I forgot one little thing... I don't really know any Japanese, therefor... would it be absolutely impossible for me to teach English if I don't speak Japanese?... :(
Oh my, REALLY!!!!!! Please please go ahead!!!! I'm not sure if that's still my next step but I definitely thought about it hehe. Egyptology is one of my biggest passions in life!
Yes really! it's been my dream of mine for as long as I can remember!! I think it started when I was in fourth grade and I saw the Mummy (the 1990's) movie. I liked the gods, and magic, and art and culture of Egypt and I fell in love with Egypt ever since then. I've read so many books on Egypt and I even had the great pleasure of teaching my class on the subject of Egypt in high school. *my teacher was shocked at how much I knew) :D I could go on about Egypt really. What about you? how did you get into Egypt? what do you like about it? My goal right now Is to get my BA in Cultural studies so I can move to Japan to teach English all the while learning Japanese! I hope to be able to teach Japanese too in the USA one day.(Japan is my other passion besides Egypt, culture and history) I want to live in Japan for about 5 years then I plan to move back to the states to get my PH.D in Anthropology and Egyptology and a minor in Japanese studies, while teaching Japanese to students at night. Once all that is done, my ultimate dream, is to find any evidence of Alexandria and its lost library and even the body of Cleopatra! or at least her tomb. Those are big dreams for sure but I believe in them. I just hope that our war with the middle east and the civil war in Egypt clams done enough so I can follow them.... my dreams, my purpose in life. What about you? what are your dreams? your purpose? i'm sorry if I written too much. but I can get a bit inspired about things and I know ill be like, 40-50 by the time I get my PH.D and dream realized. its a long road. Sorry for the long reply. I hope I hear from you soon. :D
Hi Michelle! Your message was awesome. Your passion really reminded me of how I would be thinking about Egypt all day and not be able to fall asleep back in high school and university when I found out that I could major in Egyptian studies! Your plan for the future is also FANTASTIC!!!!!! So well-planned out already! I have always gone back and forth in my thoughts about studying about Egypt because I get distracted by other things in life (like you, I am interested in many other things... don't quite know which one to really settle on!). I first got into Egypt at a young age as well. Perhaps was when I was watching Discovery Channel? I was/am deeply intrigued by the Pyramids, mummies, King Tut, hieroglyphs, and the ancient history of Egypt. I guess I like it so much because it is SO different from the world we live in now? It almost feels magical.. and this may sound weird but when I study about Egypt, everything just comes alive. Have you ever got the chance to study about Egypt at school? Or thought about majoring in Egyptology like I did in college? Not a lot of colleges offer that course for sure, but it'd be really cool to study that at a university level! Do you get to choose what culture to focus on with the BA in Cultural Studies? Have you been to Egypt, also? I almost cried when I went and climbed inside the Pyramids... it was a dream come true! I admire you so much for your big dreams--the road to becoming an Egyptologist isn't just long, but tough. I went to UCLA for my undergrad degree and even with such great resources and professors, there are only a few grad students studying Egyptology! I've taken classes with them (for honor credits) and wow, their specialized interests really opened my eyes... but at the same time I questioned myself if I can ever have insights about Egypt as deep as theirs. I once dreamed to become a Clinical Psychologist, but am currently doubting if that's really what I want to do. And of course I have dreamed to become an Egyptologist/Archaeologist as well. Like you, I want to uncover tombs! Or study mummies. Last year I thought about applying to Oxford for its Egyptology Masters but I didn't end up doing so... Partly because I had already chosen to come to Japan, but partly because I don't know how much I can dedicate myself to Egyptology, you know? (time-wise, money-wise, getting married and having kids-wise..) That said, I haven't given up! I am very lucky to have the parents I have because they honestly let me do whatever I want. My Dad once told me to follow my dreams and become an Egyptologist, despite all the expectations from an Asian culture. I was really touched when he said that! And I honestly would really go for it. I just am a little bit confused about my life right now but that is still one of my options :) It's really great to know that someone else out there dreams about similar things as I do. Please, please, please follow your dreams and go for the PhD no matter how hard the road is. Maybe one day our paths will cross, but until then, I hope we stay connected and can talk more about Egypt and Japan! Take care, Cara xx
Hey Cara, You're message is very insightful and wonderful. i'm very happy to be bale meet another like minded lover of Egypt and Japan. You don't know how little those two interests collide. It's rare. So, rare in fact, that, I think out of the few 100's of people I've spoken to on the internet and in real life, I think you're only the 2nd person I've met that enjoys them too. :D Have you thought about majoring in Egyptology? I mean, like are you still planning on it? or is there another path in life that you wanted to take first? As for me, I think i'm going to put my all into my studies and i'm actually looking at colleges right now. I was going to get my BA in American studies, but i'm thinking I need to just do a BA in Anthropology instead. because if I do American studies, it'll just be useless toward what I want. So my 1st step is to get a BA. and then I can get my MASTERS and PH.D in Archeology and Egyptology. it's going to be expensive, and being poor, living paycheck to paycheck, I'm not going to be able to go full time to school. which sucks. And not only that, but I will have to relocate to even get a BA. I live in a small town and the degree I need is in the state capital and it's a lot of money to live there. *sigh* i'll figure it out somehow. And that brings my to japan. as much as it pains me and as much as I want to, I might not do the japan program. I talked to family and friends and decided against it. The biggest reason is because I don't think I can afford both at the moment and Egyptology is too important to me. and besides, I can visit japan whenever I want when I get a job. its just going to take some time.. What do you think? * Magical is totally the word I would used to describe Egypt! YES! Egypt had spells and gods and magical cures and strict beliefs and I adore it all. its not odd that you find it alive when you study it. I feel the same. its one of the reasons why I re-read all my Egypt books. the art, the history, the life style, the gods and their way of life is vastly different from ours and from what we know today, that it's like reading something from a fantasy novel. its magic. There is also air of mystery to it too. like, there is still so much that we don't know about the way they lived. we still haven't found a lot of things like the lost temple of Ra, Cleopatra, the life in Alexandria, Seti 1, and more... but there are many things that we have discovered in the last 65 years, we know more now then when carter found the tomb of Tut. and adore the fact that we are always getting new things from the past. you know? * I never studied Egypt in college yet, that is why i'm planning on going to a college with a Anthropology degree so I can study it. OFC, I thought about Egyptology!!! I swear, i'll get my PH.D in it. I want to study it. I want to live it. I want to know it all. I love Egypt! so, yup. I'm doing it. there is not doubt in my mind about it. With the BA in cultural studies it was only for American studies. that's why I changed it. and ive never been to Egypt. its sad, I know. I'm dying to go though. how was your trip? tell me more. I need the details!! what did it look like, smell like, sound like, feel like.....????? you went to UCLA? what was your studies in? and how many people would you say was in the Egyptology classes? Yes, it's a lot of work but I'm going to do it. I must. Its my calling. I want to be remembered as a woman that did what she loved and helped shaped what we know about Egypt and its history. I have dreams and I'm scared but I cant back down. Oxford is a lot of money but their program is top notch!!!!! I'm sure, you'll find your calling. be it in japan or Egypt or in school. what ever it is. I hope it brings you joy and happiness. :D are you married? kids? there's nothing wrong with being a professional student and being a mother. many people do it. you can if you want. I, myself, I don't plan on getting married or having kids. I want to devote my life to the pursuit of knowledge. your dad sounds amazing!!! and the Asian community is lucky to have you. I say go for it!! I can help and I'm here to talk too. Egyptian pals all the way. :D :D :D Same here!! I hope to the gods, that our paths will cross and I hope we can meet one day. maybe in Egypt. :D I will love to be friends. if you want, I can give you my email and we can chat. :D BTW, sorry for typos, I'm late for work. :( Best wishes, michelle
Hi Michelle! Nice to hear from you again! I graduated from UCLA with a double major in Psychology and Egyptology, actually! haha it was really eye-opening to learn all sorts of things regarding Ancient Egyptian history back then. The history classes were HUGE (like 100-200 student large), but the hieroglyphs class was only 12-student large, which is understandable because it takes a lot of commitment and passion to actually learn the ancient language LOL That's undergrad. I think in the whole school there are less then 10 grad students.. it's tough to get in! Man, my heart sank when I read that you may not make it here to Japan! Are you working right now and if so, are you paid pretty well? Cos I think the JET program actually pays pretty well and that if you really save you will be able to save big money. I don't spend a lot but travel quite a bit and still manage to save $700-800 each month. And PhD programs should be free, no? The grad students in UCLA at least get stipends! But yeah Anthro is defo more fitting than American Studies I think. Maybe you could do Archaeology too? What state are you in now?? My Egypt trip was amazing >__< omg I miss it so much! (not to mention that smoking shisha on the traffic-jammed streets in the city of Cairo was also quite an experience) And yea why not! Send me a message on facebook (link in description box) and we can continue to talk there!!! All the best and I really hope that you dreams will come true one day, Cara
Hi thanks for the great video. Did you have to learn Japanese when you applied for JET? And how long did it take before you received word of an interview?
Nope I came to JET with super basic Japanese. And I think I got notified about the interview about 1 month before? Or less. It's not that much of a long notice!
Would it be appropriate to cite a saying in a Japanese book I read in my essay or in the interview? Basically I want to cite something written by Musashi about understanding others being critical to understanding yourself.
Depending on the questions you're asked I guess.. You could bring it up briefly to let the interviewers know that you're interested in Japanese literature? But be careful not to come off as too bookish or nerdy. Good luck!
Yeah I just wanted to basically respond to a "why Japan" or "how would you adapt to life there" I just enjoy the principles they live by and I want to learn about those principles and live by them to. In terms of adapting to life, as you indicated, I would go on road trips around the country to meet new people and meet new people by learning Kendo and Kyudo. Thanks for your response!
What are the qualification you need in order to teach in japan. I want to live in japan but I have no formal certification to. Is there any other jobs available for non teaching foriegners.
Hi! I am very much interested in being a JET participant, is JET still hiring teachers now? I am a professional teacher from the Philippines. How am I going to apply as one?
Thanx a lot That was really helpful , i'll move to japan in two weeks but i don't speak japaneese and i'm not a native english speaker but i do just fine, also i speak frensh, spanish and arabic, i have a degree in management of communication and i really hope that i'll the opportunitie to live in japan and to learn more about the culture and the language, so my question is it is possible for me to get a job or i should try something else
You mean if its possible for you to get an ALT job or..? For JET, you do need to be a native speaker, but if you're good enough, they might let you in too. Japanese skills arent required! Good luck!
Gotta get them to like me? ok! I will try my best to not make any jokes from their questions. Gotta breathe and concentrate to answer the question with a joke here and there. Oh god! I forgot about my facial expressions. I need to work on that
Apologies for the tardiness of my response. I have not worked for a few years and would like to travel abroad to Japan to teach. I have the necessary qualifications but I believe I will have difficulties explaining to prospective employers and Jet representatives alike these apparent gaps in my resume - years that didn't account for much because I was a bit off the map and not working.
i am considering this as I graduate soon from university, and i have taught English in China before for a year and a half. My sister is also considering it too, although she's actually going to graduate with an academic degree haha. Just not sure which dispatch company to go with, or whether to go with a company like Gaba which is really different to ALT work.
Are you only looking at dispatch companies? In my opinion, the JET program is the best program to go for in terms of pay, benefits and support for ALTs. Good luck with everything!
over here, JET is labelled as a dispatch company haha...its just that its a government programme on the website. The only problem i have with JET is not knowing where you will be or what age group you will teach, and the fact that soon many people sign up to it. Did they ever have a part on the application where you could say "i don't want to teach ages 10 and under" ?
Ah yea JET will never tell you 100% where you're going and who you're teaching until real late... You can definitely tell the committee the age group of students that you prefer, but it's not guaranteed that they can fulfill that wish :/
yeah i know its never a guarantee. Did they ever ask if you wanted to be in one school or have multiple schools too? I would definitely prefer to be in one school and build up a reputation and know them better than being all over the place.
Hello, I live in a very insolated place in Canada. I am trying to learn Japanese hoping to get my foot in Japanese big city. If they place me in a small town then there's no use trying for this program. What's the chance I can pick my own city in Japan?
So the JET program doesn't really care what major you were in college or what classes you've taken (but it goes without saying that having taken classes in the Japanese language/history/culture would help convey to the JET committee that you are passionate about their country! I personally, took none of that haha). As long as you have completed a bachelor's degree, it'll suffice! No teaching certificates needed either. Hope this answers your questions!
The number of years in college does not matter. You just need a bachelor's degree. As for classes, you do no need any particular classes to be accepted in the JET Program. I do think that some classes, clubs, or volunteer work involving Japanese language/culture would be helpful though. Take a class or two to learn Japanese. Join a Japanese type club such as kendo, karate, Japanese culture, etc. Basically, anything that shows you have an interest in Japan will help you, but is by no means required.
I'm studying for a degree in Education Biology. I was wondering becuase if my degree is in education will that give me sort of an upper hand? Also, I have been studying Japanese for years, is that also helpful?
Hi there! I think that both things are beneficial for your application! Defo the Japanese ability because that really shows that you're passionate about Japan and that you can survive even when put in a rural area. That said, when I applied, I had no teaching qualifications whatsoever and had only elementary Japanese skills haha so they take people from all walks of life I'd say! So I'd suggest that for your apps, defs talk about your interests in education and Japanese, BUT also don't forget to talk about other interests of yours that relate to Japan, and unique things about yourself. Distinguish yourself and make them want you!
I'm sorry to get personal. I'm just in a similar sitation that you might have been, except reversed, where my SO is a jet. How long did you do long distance before the new relationship?
Right, but NOT for formal occasions like interviews!!! Japanese people are obsessed with formality so for important occasions, suit up. only dress up, and not down!
Hey Lexi, it's not the colleges that offer the JET program, but the embassies! Most English-speaking countries offer this program, but for a more comprehensive list of participating countries, you can refer to this link: jetprogramme.org/en/countries/ I'm representing Australia on JET :)
My accent's confusing, eh? Born in Australia, grew up in Hong Kong, went back to Australia for high school then America for college.. so I end up having a weird accent XD
Hey I was wondering, does this program discriminate to a certain degree for Asians trying to teach English over there? Is it possible that you would have a higher chance at employment if you looked more “white washed” or just not Asian? 😂
Diverse yes, multicultural tho is implicit of a lack of homogeneity. Seemingly inconsequential but it’s the difference between a bunch of individual segregated cultures that are generally not assimilated vs a group of people who are of different backgrounds but are largely assimilated into their non native life I.e. Australian laws and things required of Australian citizens. Assimilation is not considered multicultural, strangely enough it’s exactly the sort of mentality that entrepreneurs strive for when seeking a career abroad, assimilating into another culture, but it’s somehow frowned upon in political circles that push for multiculturalism. Assimilation does not mean forgetting who you are tho, it is just sacrificing a part for the sake of the whole and I think it’s dishonest for many who push multiculturalism to suggest pathology that isn’t successful to those seeking successful careers in their non native countries. Haha a bit of a rant for you over just the word usage but whatever.
If you say that one certain English accent is "standard" and all other English accents are "weird," then you're offending a lot of people. My unique -- not weird -- accent contains bits and pieces from all the places I've lived in and I'm proud of it. My students had no problem with it so ~
Ah, the ignorance. You must be American. When people hear English, they automatically think of the American way. Buuuttt, there’s many countries that speak English. Open up your mind. (And this is coming from an American)
Remember this. If you get to the interview stage, they already like you from what they saw on the application. The interview is the only chance they have to make sure what you put forward is the truth.
Oh wow!😱
I failed in 2017 :/
I had my interview a week ago and these were what they asked me.
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why do you want to participate in JET?
3. How do you imagine yourself as an ALT?
4. Would homesickness be a problem for you?
5. What do you plan to do as a cultural ambassador?
I think they ran out of time because I gave long answers so after those 5 questions, they asked me to do a demo.
Just sharing because your vid really helped me with my preparation! :)
Happy to hear that my vid helped! and thanks for sharing what questions you got--I'm sure other prospective JETs will appreciate it. What demo did you get asked to do? And I hope you get the position!!
Hi what topic did they ask for your demo?
@@rajjpn You applied to the JET Program?
@@rajjpn are you from Delhi??
If you get asked to do a lesson in the interview, they're not expecting a full lesson plan with games and activities and things like that. Instead you'll probably get asked to present a topic - a holiday, colours, your hometown etc. - and they just want to see that you have presentation skills, you don't talk too fast, and you can handle the unexpected. It's not something to freak out over!
My interview was a few weeks ago now, but I can't give any insider tips because we were all sworn to secrecy before entering. Just remember that if you go in there knowing what's expected of an ALT, what the JET Programme aims to achieve and why YOU are the best person to fit that role, you'll be golden. GOOD LUCK!
sounds like you aced it! nice
Thanks for clarifying!
My friend also told me that she was asked to "explain the difference between 'over' and 'across' to Japanese students with low level English" in her interview, so it really could be anything! Explaining a grammar point may sound scary in the interview, but really you WILL be doing it fairly often when you're in Japan. So just try to explain in the best way you can guys!! No need to fret :)
Dude I remember you from back in the day! Loved your videos. Fingers crossed you get into JET!
Aaa, thank you so much for the support! Japan has always been a source of inspiration, and I'm hoping the live experience gained on JET will help me make more and better videos/films in the future. :)
@@Zoot101 Did you make it?? Update, pls :)
I wish I applied this year and followed my heart. Definitely going to apply this year!
Well how'd it go
I had my interview yesterday and I left the room feeling great! Most of my questions came straight from my SOP and application. I was thrown off because I didn’t prepare for it but it was still easy for me to talk about it. One of the questions I asked was well received. My Japanese section was eh. I feel dumb because the interviewer had to ask me multiple times but i was able to answer.
Yay!!!! So happy for you! Hopefully you'll be coming to Japan in a few months' time ;)
What are the results!?
how did it turn out?
How did it turn out???
Oh I was accepted! In my third year on the program now
I got notification the other day that I got an interview, so now I'm here preparing in advance. Just wanted to let you know that your videos are still helpful and I watched a few of them during the application process and it helped me calm myself and write a good enough application to be where I am now!
iA1ec good luck! I got an interview as well.
Just had my JET interview, your video helped me so much!! As a fellow aspiring Asian JET I'm in a similar boat, so this has been so helpful to watch! Thank you so much!
my interview was in february 2005 so i don’t remember it that well, but one thing they did ask was the differences between canadian and american cultures (i am canadian and this interview took place in toronto). like, from a japanese perspective, canada and america look more or less the same, so i had to get into why that wasn’t the case. (shout out to sapporo ALTS in the mid-2000s wee~)
I wonder how many views your video spikes by during late January of each year haha
I got my interview in early Feb and I'm nervous as hell! Your down-to-earth attitude in this video really helps calm me down. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OTHER APPLICANTS!
how did your interview go???
@@Caradventures oh my gosh I got accepted!! Placement notification comes in May 😍
my interview is tomorrow! So this was perfect timing! Thank you!
good luck! lemme know how it went!!
Did you get it??
yea, did you get into the JET Program?
My interview is in January and I'm nervous as hell especially for the Japanese questions and possible lesson segment. I did two semesters of Japanese but that was 2 years ago and trying to brush up now is basically like relearning from scratch. I'm making sure I know the words "I don't know", "Can you repeat that?" so at least if I'm ignorant I can be ignorant in Japanese. 😂 I'm happy for your tips and insight though! Thank you!
Yea! I wouldn't worry about the Japanese questions so much since it technically doesn't require Japanese skills to get in. The lesson segment though, just think about how you'd explain grammar/meanings to students the most easy way you can!
@@Caradventures thank you! A fellow JET acquaintance went over some questions with me too so I'm feeling more confident! Only a few days to go 😊
Loved this, it was very reassuring. I really liked your examples for games and lessons. I feel like if I was asked that I would freeze up, so I'm wanting to prepare. Please do a video on lessons or games you have done to teach grammar!
Hey! Your video helped! I had my interview today, it was really easy and relaxed like you described it!
YAYYYYYYY congrats!!!!! So happy to hear that you aced it :D Now sit back and wait for the results! And don't forget to keep me posted :) :)
my interview is next month!! I'm freaking out.
Hope my video helped! Ganbatte!
I really wanted to apply this year..2017 fr 2018..but things change...i gotta be patient and binge watch jet vids/research for next year
Hang in there! Let me know if I can help you in any way :)
+Caradventures Thanks for replying Cara..and for your kind concern 😊
I have seen a bunch of your videos and I truly enjoy your content and like how you have many experiences to share with everyone!
Tell me something about yourself is largely an icebreaker and also considered one of the VERY WORST possible interview questions by leading HR specialists in America!
It really can go both ways LOL
I don like this question either. But its a really common interview question
I love these videos! Thank you for taking time to make and post them. :)
Thank YOU for supporting them!!!! You guys are the reason why I keep making these vids :')
Had my interview a few days ago and they didn’t ask me any difficult questions. I wasn’t asked to do any mock lessons either, but maybe it’s because I have teaching experience. A lot of questions I was asked was based on my personal statement and it seems like they just want to make sure you are who you say you are on your paper.
Yes! They asked me about my apps too!
Im going to have to make a day long drive for a twenty minute interview. 😂 Seems worth it.
That sounds better than having to fly across the world for it... XD
You really flew across the world for the interview? Thats insane!
Yes T_T From LA to Sydney... and the flight tickets aren't reimbursed -_-
By why did you have to fly out of country?
I was living in Los Angeles back then but I applied through the Australian government bc I'm Australian lol!
Thank you for all the tips and information. This is a big help for my early preparation and for everybody as well. I wish I could ace it!
Thanks Cara!!! Your channel really helped me!!! I just had my interview today, I really hope I got it :)
Hey Ivy! Happy to hear that you find my videos helpful :) :) I'm sure you aced your interview, so now try to sit back and relax!!! Hehe and don't forget to keep me posted on your results! Good luck!!!
CARA!!! I GOT IN!!! I'm beyond excited!!!
I just want to say thank you for being so candid and personal in your videos ... It feels like I got a glimpse of what my next year might look like!
Omg Ivy CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So excited for you girl!!!! Wishing you all the best for the new year, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need any help! Don't forget to let me know where you'll be too when you know!!!!!!
I'm a Hongkonger and I find your video very useful and informative! Thanks so much :)
Glad to hear!!
Really detailed and informative advice, thank you for sharing.
Thank You !!
Loved it !!
So Helpful !!
I want to be a JET so bad. The problem is I am 29 years old and don't have a bachelors. It's always been my dream to teach language abroad. I am applying for college now - but by the time I finish I'll be in my 30's.
Will I still have a chance?
I don't see why not! As long as you follow your heart :)
Hey! Austin I’m 29 years old too and I’m considering teaching abroad the JET program. I’m glad you asked this question ‘cause I feel the same way
mimiculmore Hey man. I'm also interested in the JET program as well. I got my Associates in 2016 so I have 2 years left to get my Bachelors and apply. The thing is that i'm planning on working for a few years to save money for the program and i'm about to be 24. I'll probably be 28-30 by the time I get my Bachelors and apply for the program so it's definitely not too late for neither of us.
thanks for the encouragment. Good luck! :)
Hi Cara! Thank you for sharing your experience about JET programme. I'm a little hesistant to apply cause' I heard it's really competitive, but after I watched your videos it inspires me to try my luck. Thank youu!
Yea definitely try it out! I hope you make it!!!
Thank you for sharing your experiences
I watched your video, so I was expecting the interviewers to be friendly... but they weren't and it really threw me off! Well, the Japanese guy was nice and smiled a lot, but the ex JET girl didn't smile once and seemed like she didn't want to be there at all. I came in and was expecting to be able to shake their hands and introduce myself, but the girl quickly said "Come in. Sit there", and immediately I was thrown off and was like "oh crap". She asked me to do the impromptu lesson plan on teaching about Inuit in Canada to beginner students (since I'm Canadian) - a topic she apparently pulled out of the air? I don't even really know about Inuit in Canada. I went up to give the lesson and asked if I could pretend I had flash cards or something, since I practiced a lot pretending I had flash cards or tangible aids... She said that I was only allowed to use the whiteboard and markers that were presently available...
So I attempted to teach about Inuit in Canada while using nothing but a whiteboard and markers.... I drew a picture of Canada, wrote "CANADA" on the board and got them to repeat it. Then I drew a picture of an Inuit person and circled the north of Canada and wrote "INUIT" on the board. The Japanese interviewer was playing along and repeating after me, but the girl kept saying in Japanese "sensei wakaranai". I get it that sometimes kids don't understand what the teacher is saying, but I felt like this girl was trying purposefully to make the interview very hard and stressful for me. I was in the process of drawing an igloo (lol), and she said "Ok, that's enough. Please sit down again".
The whole time I kept smiling and stayed positive, and I think I did a good job answering questions, but the girl seemed utterly unimpressed with me and with life in general. I get that people sometimes have a bad day... but now I'm sooooo nervous because I have no way to gague how I did. It was not a good experience for me at all. As soon as the interview was over I felt like crying :(
Omg Tae I'm so sorry to hear about your experience >_< It must've been very frustrating to approach or even impress the ex-JET girl... But what I can say is that, if she was mean to you, she was probably mean to everyone else so I don't think you should take it too personally! The impromptu lesson definitely was a challenge and I've heard of stories where interviewers pretended like the rebellious students who just say "wakaranai" all the time (and it does sometimes happen in real life so..) so you're not the only one!!!!
How was your interaction with the Japanese guy though? The ex-JET girl wasn't the only judge and I'm sure that if the Japanese guy could tell that you were trying your best to smile and be positive and answer their questions in your best ability, you should be fine.
Ah man I wish I could give you a hug :( I hope good news come your way comes April though >_< Keep me posted! And feel better!!!
Wow, you're so nice!!!! Thank you! You're amazing!! xD
The Japanese guy was very, well, Japanese-like. He said thank you after every answer I gave and smiled a lot and was sort of shy. You're right - if she was like that to me then she was probably like that with everyone else as well. That's actually really sad and she probably upset a lot of people :(
Hopefully the Japanese guy will see that I was doing my best and I'll get accepted. If not I'll just apply to another company because I really want to do this! lol
Haha nooo I want all my followers to get accepted to the program and be able to achieve their dream :D
I think the Japanese guy would be a better person to gauge your performance from! Haha that said though, it's all over now so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy your friends and family's presence! (Because if you get in, you will be missing them loooaddsssss!!)
If JET doesn't work out and you need help applying to private companies, shoot me a message. I have a friend here who isn't a JET so he may be able to answer any questions you may have! Good luck!!! :)
Thank you so much! I appreciate it a lot!!
+Tae That sucks, did you actually get into JET or not ? It was quite sometime ago when I worked in Japan, but you can meet all sorts of people. I think it is impossible to say whether they will be friendly or not. Some JETs are complete bastards, even worse are people who are in management positions in Eikaiwa or private dispatch companies. On the other hand there are lots of friendly people too. It is unfortunate you got that nasty interviewer, but that person is most probably like that to everyone.
You did a very informative and helpful blogs.
I have my interview next month Cara!!! 😄😄😄Thanks for your helpful videos!! :)
Good luck for it!!
This is really helpful to know about even though I'm nowhere near ready to go, just yet! XP But I like to be prepared XD
You make great videos, thank you!!
You did a great job! I Admire your English!
How should we dress? Is business casual too informal?
Yes. Full suit is required.
Hey! Currently getting ready for my interview and I’m freaking out a bit 😳 I was wondering when you applied what you placed your Japanese level at?
Thank you so much! Your videos have been helping me a lot
Elementary for everything, except reading! I put intermediate for that cos I know kanji haha good luck!!
Thank you!
Hey Cara! I'm so happy I found your videos, I'm in the process of applying to JET and I'm really excited about the possibility of going to Japan.
I had a pretty specific, and possibly weird, question about the interview. In my SOP, I mentioned that I got into Japanese culture through my dad (he traveled there a lot). He would always bring back gifts and tell stories. I mentioned my favorite gift he bought me (a jacket from Okinawa that I still have) and I've heard they really quiz you about your SOP in the interview. Would it be weird/unprofessional to bring it to the interview as a visual since I mentioned it in my SOP? I want to really stand out to them, but I don't want to be "too individual" to the point where I'm seen as unprofessional or nuts haha.
Another question I had that relates to my SOP and the interview is how to talk about the Japanese students. Should I refer to them as "the students" or "my students"? I don't want to seem over confident or assume I have the job, but I want to make that connection to show that I'm serious about JET and thinking ahead. It's been a while since I've had to write a paper for anything, so I know I may be getting ahead of myself, but I just want to be prepared. :)
Thanks for the videos!
Hey Katelyn! I'm glad you like my videos!
The jacket question is quite a pickle! On one hand we're not supposed to know what the questions are but on the other hand it'd help you stand out... maybe put it in a small bag (depending on how much you can squish it) so you that you could bring that with you into the interview room? In that case, you have the choice of whether or not to show it and it won't look too weird. What cha think? :D
For your second question, I'm actually going to post a video on writing the SoP this week and will be attaching a link to my own SoP to the video so make sure you check that out! In general, though, in order to make that connection and not seem overconfident, you could write "my students in the future, if I were accepted"?
Hope this helps! Good luck :)
Thanks so much for the advice and responding. I'll look forward to the SoP video! That's a good idea for the jacket. I'll probably put it in my bag and read the situation lol.
hi miss Katelyn! just curious about what happened? the jacket thing was interesting! did u get in? hope you did! 🎉
Wow! Nice video thank you😊
Great video!
Very helpful, hope one day i will go ti Japan
Good luck!
I would love to work in Japan as an ALT ❤
There is a question I would like to ask you. When I walk into the room, do I bow or shake their hand?
Is it okay to say in the personal statement that my long term goal is to be a language teacher in Japan? Or would this be viewed negatively for the JET program? I want to be honest, but not at the expense of ruining my application. XD Thanks
I think that's okay! Just make sure you research how you can stay in Japan as a language teacher after your contract with JET expires!
I wish i saw this video before my interview. I had my interview yesterday and I think I did okay, but not very great. It's really bumming me out right now :( .
Hey!!!! It's over now so be easier on yourself! I think that the interviewers just wanted to see your personality and your reasons to go to Japan, so if you weren't acting weirdly or antisocially you should be fine. Relax a little! The next two months are gonna be a long wait >_
+ khly del mundo
I think a lot of people feel like this afterward because we put so much effort into it and we really want to succeed, so we feel uncertain about everything while we're in the waiting period. I feel the same way you do, so don't worry - you're not alone. I think even if we aren't accepted this time around we shouldn't give up because we can always apply again or apply to a different company. Stay positive! :D
Thanks Tae for the awesome positivity! Guess what? Even til THIS DAY I'm still thinking about how I could've bettered my responses at the JET interview.. and this applies to almost every other thing that I've applied to and interviewed at.. There's always room to improve!
And I indeed have JET friends here who have applied twice or even three times, and some get in as alternates so really, anything can happen. That said though, I hope you get it in the first round and try to sit back and relax for now! Good luck :)
Hi! I just had an interest on JET program recently and considering on applying, your videos are really helpful. I have a question though, can someone apply to JET even without a work experience? I just graduated from college.
Hey Jericho! The answer is yes -- I came on JET straight after college so that's not a problem at all. The committee just wants to see that you have a genuine interest in coming to Japan so yea. If you have related experience then it's a bonus; if not, it's no biggie!
Caradventures Yay! thanks! I think I'll give it a shot for next year's batch! I hope the application is not yet closed in our country.
don't think JET program closes the apps til november, so you should be fine! good luck!!
I have absolutely no work experience and I'm afraid of my chances getting in. But if I don't try, then I'll never know.
Just posted my application form!
Same
So, are you guys teaching In japan yet? It's been a year.
Artistry Minds Studios yep
@@jellybean23yearsago58 How's It going so far? Could you elaborate a bit more?
Artistry Minds Studios it’s the best thing in the world. I have absolutely no regrets. If you want to do this, give it everything you’ve got and don’t look back. Good luck.
Hello Teacher. I always watch your videos. I would like to ask how do you correct your JTE once he or she commits a mistake while teaching without embarssing him or her in front of the class? Thank you.
honestly, depends on the teacher. if you have a good relationship with them and are friendly, you can try bringing it up after the fact in the staff room (never in front of the class omg). but….you also might just want to let it go. consider possible reactions and repercussions. one time my JTE asked me in front of the class if i pronounce “often” with the “t” and i said i think it’s right both ways (i’m canadian). but the textbook says the “t” isn’t pronounced, so he didn’t believe me.😅
@@OriharaKaoru hahaha okay got it thanks.
Hi. Thank you for your very informative video. I really need your opinion on this matter, because I'm planning to move to Japan to teach English. Here is my story:
I'm 26 and will get my masters at teaching English (ESL/EFL) in about a year. I'm from Iran and our education level is far below the International level, so I don't have high hopes in finding a job in Japan (even though I'm among the top 30 nationwide); so I plan to get my PhD and teach at a lower level, making it a kind of bargain for companies that will hopefully hire me. Many tell me that with this kind of hard work I can make a far better life here in Iran, but honestly since I was a kid I wanted to go to Japan or Norway and since I'm from the damned Middle East, I can't move to Scandinavia, that leaves Japan. It is a bit hard for us Iranians to get into Japan but it is possible. I have many questions and problems about living and working in Japan. here are a few:
1. I've heard that Japanese value working hard very much and working hours are much longer there, exactly how long is working hours for teachers in Japan?
2. Can I get a job without any experience?
3. How different is the teaching system from the US teaching system (we are learning US teaching system here in Iran)?
4. Can I survive with 200,000 yen monthly? Compared to US or Canada how are living expenses in Japan?
5. How do they view teachers that are not native English speakers? with the surplus of native speakers do they even need us? will they hire someone with a PhD to teach at at least elementary school level?
6. How hard was the clash of cultures at the first few month of your visit? Can I cope with that?
7. they have these "home room" classes, what are those about? Do I need to do anything specific to get ready for them?
8. I've heard they are very strict about work and workplace etiquette there. please explain a bit if at all possible.
9. Do I need to take any special courses or have some specific degrees to find work there?
10. Will I have free time at weekends to explore Japan?
11. Any age requirements for teachers?
12. Anything else that I need to worry about?
And please share some tips or tricks if you happen to know any.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Arash! Thank you for the questions. I hope you'll be able to get a job in Japan eventually! Here are my answers to your questions:
1. ALTs don't usually work overtime. My hours are 8am-4pm but my Japanese coworkers probably work from 7am-9pm
2. Yes. I came with only a bachelors degree.
3. I don't know about that. But the Japanese teaching style is quite rigid and textbookish if I have to describe it.
4. Please refer to this video of mine: th-cam.com/video/8zu5Nr8tCd0/w-d-xo.html
5. The JET program does state that you have to be a native speaker to teach, but honestly if your English is good enough (determined by the committee), then you should be fine. I'm not a native either, but that's exactly how I can motivate my students to study English as a second language! And bachelor's is honestly all you need to teach here. Earning a PhD may be too much for it... they may think that you're overqualified to be honest.
6. Please refer to this video of mine: th-cam.com/video/gMxHBSWX-cY/w-d-xo.html
7. Homeroom activites are not your responsibilties; the students just reflect on the day and give reports, etc.
8. Please refer to this article I wrote: blog.gaijinpot.com/bad-alt-unwritten-rules-japanese-schools/
9. Only a Bachelors, TESOL is not required.
10. Yes.
11. No.
12. Hope this video helps: th-cam.com/video/N_cfXl7PSPQ/w-d-xo.html
You can watch my other videos to learn more about teaching/living in Japan! I think I've covered quite a bit of what life is like here. Good luck, mate!
How long have you been staying there in Japan by now? I feel so happy seeing your videos! Hehe. God bless you!
Heya, it's been almost 1.5 years now and I'm still lovin' it :D
@@Caradventures Damn now thats inspirational, are you still there
So I'm currently in the process of applying for the JET program. I basically don't know any Japanese. I can read hiragana, I know many words and phrases, I can introduce myself, and I can ask for directions and say other basic travelling necessities. However I am entirely unlikely to be able to answer any questions I may be asked in Japanese.
Do you have any insight or tips for my interview to overcome my lack of Japanese?
There are a few sites out where you can practice your conversational skills by talking to a native/fluent Japanese speaker. This won't really help with pronunciation and all that, but it will definitely help with formulating sentences and actually having conversations!
I have my interview in a few weeks so I am preparing!
Good luck!!!
You obviously passed so for you it doesn’t matter but I think you still could have navigated the Japanese portion if you formatted your answer in a simple way. For example, instead of saying it’s a tropical climate you could say it’s hot, there are beaches, it’s an island, there’s X types of animals, etc and be as detailed as possible with using simple vocab or whatever you’re able to say. Just a tip for those who will be getting interviewed next year, hopefully it helps
I have my interview next Monday and I'm so worried about the Japanese language section! I didn't realize they would ask in depth questions. On my application, I said I have introductory Japanese...and by that I mean, counting, saying hello, excuse me. But if I had to carry a conversation, I wouldn't understand or be able to respond >_
mooncake don't worry so much about it! If they ask something that you can't understand, just tell them so :) the distinction between introductory, elementary, intermediate and advanced is quite vague and dependent on the applicant's judgment, so I don't think they'd think that you lied! If they ask what you know, then tell them honestly what you can do. You'll be fine! Don't think they'd trouble you too much with that :D
Good luck and lemme know how it went!
which option did you state on your application? i took japanese for a year, but stopped taking lessons in winter 2015. so i put that i know elementary japanese in writing/speaking/listening. i mostly understood the questions you said they asked, except for the nouns (sea, mountain, "favorite place") etc. how should i go about this?
whoops, just read a reply that you put elementary! just a little nervous about this now, haha
hmmmm when's your interview? perhaps you could try to build up basic vocabulary for now? As I mentioned in the above comment, I don't think that the interviewers would trouble you too much or give questions that are too difficult! But it'd defo help to know a few main words and try to answer them the best you could. and make sure you know how to say "one more time, please" (もう一回、お願いします) and "can you please speak slowly?" (ゆっくり言ってください)! Good luck!
Thank you for this
I have an interview at the end of January!! So nervous! >_
you got this! good luck!
how did it go?
I speak three languages: English, Spanish and French and I am a traveler, so I had this idea to visit Japan for a while working as an English teacher but I forgot one little thing... I don't really know any Japanese, therefor... would it be absolutely impossible for me to teach English if I don't speak Japanese?... :(
Jair Damian no it's possible according to what other TH-camrs has said,go for it!
Nope! They may actually prefer it if you don't speak Japanese haha. And you'll be teaching with a Japanese teacher so don't worry about it!
@@Caradventures Hi, Cara. What do you mean by "they may prefer"? Don't they prefer someone who already has knowledge in this language?
I think I just fell in love....
ありがとうからさん!
ハハいいえ、頑張ってね!
Superb video. Will they accept 3 years degree,having Cert Tesol from Trinity College London and having 11 years of teaching experience. Kindly reply.
Awesome Awesome Video
I hope I heard you right, did you say you wanted to be a EGYPTOLOGIST?!!! if so, THAT'S WHAT IM DOING TOO! :D
Oh my, REALLY!!!!!! Please please go ahead!!!! I'm not sure if that's still my next step but I definitely thought about it hehe. Egyptology is one of my biggest passions in life!
Yes really! it's been my dream of mine for as long as I can remember!! I think it started when I was in fourth grade and I saw the Mummy (the 1990's) movie. I liked the gods, and magic, and art and culture of Egypt and I fell in love with Egypt ever since then. I've read so many books on Egypt and I even had the great pleasure of teaching my class on the subject of Egypt in high school. *my teacher was shocked at how much I knew) :D I could go on about Egypt really. What about you? how did you get into Egypt? what do you like about it?
My goal right now Is to get my BA in Cultural studies so I can move to Japan to teach English all the while learning Japanese! I hope to be able to teach Japanese too in the USA one day.(Japan is my other passion besides Egypt, culture and history)
I want to live in Japan for about 5 years then I plan to move back to the states to get my PH.D in Anthropology and Egyptology and a minor in Japanese studies, while teaching Japanese to students at night. Once all that is done, my ultimate dream, is to find any evidence of Alexandria and its lost library and even the body of Cleopatra! or at least her tomb.
Those are big dreams for sure but I believe in them. I just hope that our war with the middle east and the civil war in Egypt clams done enough so I can follow them.... my dreams, my purpose in life.
What about you? what are your dreams? your purpose?
i'm sorry if I written too much. but I can get a bit inspired about things and I know ill be like, 40-50 by the time I get my PH.D and dream realized.
its a long road.
Sorry for the long reply. I hope I hear from you soon. :D
Hi Michelle!
Your message was awesome. Your passion really reminded me of how I would be thinking about Egypt all day and not be able to fall asleep back in high school and university when I found out that I could major in Egyptian studies! Your plan for the future is also FANTASTIC!!!!!! So well-planned out already! I have always gone back and forth in my thoughts about studying about Egypt because I get distracted by other things in life (like you, I am interested in many other things... don't quite know which one to really settle on!).
I first got into Egypt at a young age as well. Perhaps was when I was watching Discovery Channel? I was/am deeply intrigued by the Pyramids, mummies, King Tut, hieroglyphs, and the ancient history of Egypt. I guess I like it so much because it is SO different from the world we live in now? It almost feels magical.. and this may sound weird but when I study about Egypt, everything just comes alive.
Have you ever got the chance to study about Egypt at school? Or thought about majoring in Egyptology like I did in college? Not a lot of colleges offer that course for sure, but it'd be really cool to study that at a university level! Do you get to choose what culture to focus on with the BA in Cultural Studies? Have you been to Egypt, also? I almost cried when I went and climbed inside the Pyramids... it was a dream come true!
I admire you so much for your big dreams--the road to becoming an Egyptologist isn't just long, but tough. I went to UCLA for my undergrad degree and even with such great resources and professors, there are only a few grad students studying Egyptology! I've taken classes with them (for honor credits) and wow, their specialized interests really opened my eyes... but at the same time I questioned myself if I can ever have insights about Egypt as deep as theirs. I once dreamed to become a Clinical Psychologist, but am currently doubting if that's really what I want to do. And of course I have dreamed to become an Egyptologist/Archaeologist as well. Like you, I want to uncover tombs! Or study mummies. Last year I thought about applying to Oxford for its Egyptology Masters but I didn't end up doing so... Partly because I had already chosen to come to Japan, but partly because I don't know how much I can dedicate myself to Egyptology, you know? (time-wise, money-wise, getting married and having kids-wise..)
That said, I haven't given up! I am very lucky to have the parents I have because they honestly let me do whatever I want. My Dad once told me to follow my dreams and become an Egyptologist, despite all the expectations from an Asian culture. I was really touched when he said that! And I honestly would really go for it. I just am a little bit confused about my life right now but that is still one of my options :)
It's really great to know that someone else out there dreams about similar things as I do. Please, please, please follow your dreams and go for the PhD no matter how hard the road is. Maybe one day our paths will cross, but until then, I hope we stay connected and can talk more about Egypt and Japan!
Take care,
Cara xx
Hey Cara,
You're message is very insightful and wonderful. i'm very happy to be bale meet another like minded lover of Egypt and Japan. You don't know how little those two interests collide. It's rare. So, rare in fact, that, I think out of the few 100's of people I've spoken to on the internet and in real life, I think you're only the 2nd person I've met that enjoys them too.
:D
Have you thought about majoring in Egyptology? I mean, like are you still planning on it? or is there another path in life that you wanted to take first?
As for me, I think i'm going to put my all into my studies and i'm actually looking at colleges right now. I was going to get my BA in American studies, but i'm thinking I need to just do a BA in Anthropology instead. because if I do American studies, it'll just be useless toward what I want. So my 1st step is to get a BA.
and then I can get my MASTERS and PH.D in Archeology and Egyptology. it's going to be expensive, and being poor, living paycheck to paycheck, I'm not going to be able to go full time to school. which sucks. And not only that, but I will have to relocate to even get a BA. I live in a small town and the degree I need is in the state capital and it's a lot of money to live there. *sigh* i'll figure it out somehow.
And that brings my to japan. as much as it pains me and as much as I want to, I might not do the japan program. I talked to family and friends and decided against it. The biggest reason is because I don't think I can afford both at the moment and Egyptology is too important to me.
and besides, I can visit japan whenever I want when I get a job. its just going to take some time..
What do you think?
*
Magical is totally the word I would used to describe Egypt! YES! Egypt had spells and gods and magical cures and strict beliefs and I adore it all. its not odd that you find it alive when you study it. I feel the same. its one of the reasons why I re-read all my Egypt books. the art, the history, the life style, the gods and their way of life is vastly different from ours and from what we know today, that it's like reading something from a fantasy novel. its magic.
There is also air of mystery to it too. like, there is still so much that we don't know about the way they lived. we still haven't found a lot of things like the lost temple of Ra, Cleopatra, the life in Alexandria, Seti 1, and more... but there are many things that we have discovered in the last 65 years, we know more now then when carter found the tomb of Tut. and adore the fact that we are always getting new things from the past. you know?
*
I never studied Egypt in college yet, that is why i'm planning on going to a college with a Anthropology degree so I can study it. OFC, I thought about Egyptology!!! I swear, i'll get my PH.D in it. I want to study it. I want to live it. I want to know it all. I love Egypt! so, yup. I'm doing it. there is not doubt in my mind about it.
With the BA in cultural studies it was only for American studies. that's why I changed it. and ive never been to Egypt. its sad, I know. I'm dying to go though. how was your trip? tell me more. I need the details!! what did it look like, smell like, sound like, feel like.....?????
you went to UCLA? what was your studies in? and how many people would you say was in the Egyptology classes?
Yes, it's a lot of work but I'm going to do it. I must. Its my calling. I want to be remembered as a woman that did what she loved and helped shaped what we know about Egypt and its history. I have dreams and I'm scared but I cant back down. Oxford is a lot of money but their program is top notch!!!!!
I'm sure, you'll find your calling. be it in japan or Egypt or in school. what ever it is. I hope it brings you joy and happiness. :D
are you married? kids?
there's nothing wrong with being a professional student and being a mother. many people do it. you can if you want. I, myself, I don't plan on getting married or having kids. I want to devote my life to the pursuit of knowledge.
your dad sounds amazing!!! and the Asian community is lucky to have you. I say go for it!! I can help and I'm here to talk too. Egyptian pals all the way. :D :D :D
Same here!! I hope to the gods, that our paths will cross and I hope we can meet one day. maybe in Egypt. :D I will love to be friends. if you want, I can give you my email and we can chat. :D
BTW, sorry for typos, I'm late for work. :(
Best wishes,
michelle
Hi Michelle!
Nice to hear from you again! I graduated from UCLA with a double major in Psychology and Egyptology, actually! haha it was really eye-opening to learn all sorts of things regarding Ancient Egyptian history back then. The history classes were HUGE (like 100-200 student large), but the hieroglyphs class was only 12-student large, which is understandable because it takes a lot of commitment and passion to actually learn the ancient language LOL That's undergrad. I think in the whole school there are less then 10 grad students.. it's tough to get in!
Man, my heart sank when I read that you may not make it here to Japan! Are you working right now and if so, are you paid pretty well? Cos I think the JET program actually pays pretty well and that if you really save you will be able to save big money. I don't spend a lot but travel quite a bit and still manage to save $700-800 each month. And PhD programs should be free, no? The grad students in UCLA at least get stipends! But yeah Anthro is defo more fitting than American Studies I think. Maybe you could do Archaeology too?
What state are you in now??
My Egypt trip was amazing >__< omg I miss it so much!
(not to mention that smoking shisha on the traffic-jammed streets in the city of Cairo was also quite an experience)
And yea why not! Send me a message on facebook (link in description box) and we can continue to talk there!!!
All the best and I really hope that you dreams will come true one day,
Cara
Hi thanks for the great video. Did you have to learn Japanese when you applied for JET? And how long did it take before you received word of an interview?
Nope I came to JET with super basic Japanese. And I think I got notified about the interview about 1 month before? Or less. It's not that much of a long notice!
Would it be appropriate to cite a saying in a Japanese book I read in my essay or in the interview? Basically I want to cite something written by Musashi about understanding others being critical to understanding yourself.
Depending on the questions you're asked I guess.. You could bring it up briefly to let the interviewers know that you're interested in Japanese literature? But be careful not to come off as too bookish or nerdy. Good luck!
Yeah I just wanted to basically respond to a "why Japan" or "how would you adapt to life there" I just enjoy the principles they live by and I want to learn about those principles and live by them to. In terms of adapting to life, as you indicated, I would go on road trips around the country to meet new people and meet new people by learning Kendo and Kyudo.
Thanks for your response!
What was your first language? I’m also asian but lived in America and my home country so my accent is pretty diverse 😂
Cantonese is my first language HAHAHA
the 2 letter of references they ask for. how recent do they have to be?
What are the qualification you need in order to teach in japan. I want to live in japan but I have no formal certification to. Is there any other jobs available for non teaching foriegners.
Hi! I am very much interested in being a JET participant, is JET still hiring teachers now? I am a professional teacher from the Philippines. How am I going to apply as one?
Hi! I believe this website's got everything you need: www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000147.html
Thanx a lot That was really helpful , i'll move to japan in two weeks but i don't speak japaneese and i'm not a native english speaker but i do just fine, also i speak frensh, spanish and arabic, i have a degree in management of communication and i really hope that i'll the opportunitie to live in japan and to learn more about the culture and the language, so my question is it is possible for me to get a job or i should try something else
You mean if its possible for you to get an ALT job or..? For JET, you do need to be a native speaker, but if you're good enough, they might let you in too. Japanese skills arent required! Good luck!
@@Caradventures thnx a lot 😊
uhhh.....this is going to be tricky for me since i'm pretty sarcastic and dry. So, I gotta learn to use that sincere smile
Haha maybe the interviewers will like your sense of humor! :p Just be yourself and you shall be fine! (But remember that you want them to like you!)
Gotta get them to like me? ok! I will try my best to not make any jokes from their questions. Gotta breathe and concentrate to answer the question with a joke here and there.
Oh god! I forgot about my facial expressions. I need to work on that
Haha yea just be confident and be yourself!!! Good luck :D
Thanks. Hopefully luck will be on my side when I interview with them this year
Thanks for the vid; something to prepare for. How would account for substantial resume gaps?
Substantial resume gaps?
Apologies for the tardiness of my response. I have not worked for a few years and would like to travel abroad to Japan to teach. I have the necessary qualifications but I believe I will have difficulties explaining to prospective employers and Jet representatives alike these apparent gaps in my resume - years that didn't account for much because I was a bit off the map and not working.
Ah I see. I think being honest is the best way to convey those gaps?
あなたはとてもきれいです
i am considering this as I graduate soon from university, and i have taught English in China before for a year and a half. My sister is also considering it too, although she's actually going to graduate with an academic degree haha. Just not sure which dispatch company to go with, or whether to go with a company like Gaba which is really different to ALT work.
Are you only looking at dispatch companies? In my opinion, the JET program is the best program to go for in terms of pay, benefits and support for ALTs. Good luck with everything!
over here, JET is labelled as a dispatch company haha...its just that its a government programme on the website. The only problem i have with JET is not knowing where you will be or what age group you will teach, and the fact that soon many people sign up to it.
Did they ever have a part on the application where you could say "i don't want to teach ages 10 and under" ?
Ah yea JET will never tell you 100% where you're going and who you're teaching until real late... You can definitely tell the committee the age group of students that you prefer, but it's not guaranteed that they can fulfill that wish :/
yeah i know its never a guarantee. Did they ever ask if you wanted to be in one school or have multiple schools too? I would definitely prefer to be in one school and build up a reputation and know them better than being all over the place.
Nah they didn't ask; unfortunately I don't think that's something you can choose either :/
Hello, I live in a very insolated place in Canada. I am trying to learn Japanese hoping to get my foot in Japanese big city. If they place me in a small town then there's no use trying for this program. What's the chance I can pick my own city in Japan?
How many years of college do you need for them to accept you? What classes are needed in college?
So the JET program doesn't really care what major you were in college or what classes you've taken (but it goes without saying that having taken classes in the Japanese language/history/culture would help convey to the JET committee that you are passionate about their country! I personally, took none of that haha). As long as you have completed a bachelor's degree, it'll suffice! No teaching certificates needed either.
Hope this answers your questions!
The number of years in college does not matter. You just need a bachelor's degree. As for classes, you do no need any particular classes to be accepted in the JET Program. I do think that some classes, clubs, or volunteer work involving Japanese language/culture would be helpful though. Take a class or two to learn Japanese. Join a Japanese type club such as kendo, karate, Japanese culture, etc. Basically, anything that shows you have an interest in Japan will help you, but is by no means required.
Caradventures really now ? So having a TESOL/TEFL Is not required? But I am assume if u have it then it is to your advantage? Just curious 😁
I'm studying for a degree in Education Biology. I was wondering becuase if my degree is in education will that give me sort of an upper hand? Also, I have been studying Japanese for years, is that also helpful?
Hi there! I think that both things are beneficial for your application! Defo the Japanese ability because that really shows that you're passionate about Japan and that you can survive even when put in a rural area. That said, when I applied, I had no teaching qualifications whatsoever and had only elementary Japanese skills haha so they take people from all walks of life I'd say! So I'd suggest that for your apps, defs talk about your interests in education and Japanese, BUT also don't forget to talk about other interests of yours that relate to Japan, and unique things about yourself. Distinguish yourself and make them want you!
Caradventures Thank you so much for you speedy reply! :) I can't wait to apply for the program.
Awesome, informative video! Aaaand you're really cute ^__^
aw thanks :3
Did you ever start a relationship with anyone during jet after you ended your relationship? Signed, a fan.
Hi! Yes, but it didn't last very long haha
I'm sorry to get personal. I'm just in a similar sitation that you might have been, except reversed, where my SO is a jet. How long did you do long distance before the new relationship?
does anyone knows if it is possible to be a JET knowing not much of japanese?
Yep, totally! I knew only very basic Japanese coming into JET
Thanks for your video and i have a question about lesson plan ?
did you mean how to do a lesson plan?
Ya i mean if they ask give a demo ?
I didn't get asked that question, so unfortunately I won't be able to give an answer on that!
Its ok. Thank you.
蛮有用的,但是查了查,国内的jet公派40,统招10来个。需要成绩证明,日文英文推荐信,日语1级等级证书,甚或教师资格证。看起来一点也不grassroot
日语1级等级证书????這麼高要求的嗎?我是由澳洲政府派過來的所以不知道中國的詳情...
嗯,据一些社会申请者描述:名额很少,学日语的很多,所以竞争很大。有个大学日语教师申请都没有通过。
oh no... i guess it really depends on which country you apply to >_< America always has a large number of JETs!
Just wondering- why do you prefer not to work in eikaiwas?
I prefer to work during the day! and I wanted to work at schools :)
Caradventures cool! thanks for the reply 🤗
Hello! How's the Japanese colleagues?
i thought jeans were considered dressy/fancy in japan ?
Right, but NOT for formal occasions like interviews!!! Japanese people are obsessed with formality so for important occasions, suit up. only dress up, and not down!
well now im just confused !
suits for formal occasions!!! jeans for hangouts with friends!!
Anyone told you that you and Julia from jk news look similar?
Nope, but I just looked her up.. I see why you say we look similar LOL
@@Caradventures 🤩
So you remember 8 questions were there more? If yes how much? 10,15?
I think the 8 questions were all that I was asked. The interview was only 20 minutes long so they couldn't fit that much in!
Can you tell us how you would pay my U.S student loans from Japan? Will I have access to my student loans website from Japan?
I'm afraid I don't have the answer to your question as I didn't pay any loans from Japan.. sorry!
@@Caradventures Cara, thanks! when are you uploading more videos. I miss your pretty face!
@@samuraikyozz2483 soon!!!!
@@Caradventures great! I can't wait!!!!!!
so you have to be able to understand and speake Japanese to work as ALT....
yay
My interview was today lol
ah! hope it went well for you!
what is jet and what is alt?
jetprogramme.org/en/positions/
What colleges offer the JET program??
Hey Lexi, it's not the colleges that offer the JET program, but the embassies! Most English-speaking countries offer this program, but for a more comprehensive list of participating countries, you can refer to this link: jetprogramme.org/en/countries/
I'm representing Australia on JET :)
Thank you so much!
You need a bachelors degree from an English speaking country basically
Where are you from ?
My accent's confusing, eh?
Born in Australia, grew up in Hong Kong, went back to Australia for high school then America for college.. so I end up having a weird accent XD
Is teaching experience required?
Nope, but of course having some wouldn't hurt!
Do you speak in Mandarin?
Hey! I can understand Mandarin, but since I lived in Hong Kong I speak Cantonese haha.
The Japanese never tell you what they really think of you. They'll seem polite, but they'll probably laughing at you behind your back.
agreedddddd
@@Caradventures TRUTH
Hey I was wondering, does this program discriminate to a certain degree for Asians trying to teach English over there? Is it possible that you would have a higher chance at employment if you looked more “white washed” or just not Asian? 😂
Hey! I dont think so.. there's a lot of Asian JETs so I think the program is pretty fair in that regard.
Caradventures Okay thanks so much!!
See she isn’t white too. Queens university
Ru Australia n
Diverse yes, multicultural tho is implicit of a lack of homogeneity. Seemingly inconsequential but it’s the difference between a bunch of individual segregated cultures that are generally not assimilated vs a group of people who are of different backgrounds but are largely assimilated into their non native life I.e. Australian laws and things required of Australian citizens. Assimilation is not considered multicultural, strangely enough it’s exactly the sort of mentality that entrepreneurs strive for when seeking a career abroad, assimilating into another culture, but it’s somehow frowned upon in political circles that push for multiculturalism. Assimilation does not mean forgetting who you are tho, it is just sacrificing a part for the sake of the whole and I think it’s dishonest for many who push multiculturalism to suggest pathology that isn’t successful to those seeking successful careers in their non native countries. Haha a bit of a rant for you over just the word usage but whatever.
5:28 "they can speak english just as well" your accent is kinda weird though, why would you want to burden your students with it??
If you say that one certain English accent is "standard" and all other English accents are "weird," then you're offending a lot of people. My unique -- not weird -- accent contains bits and pieces from all the places I've lived in and I'm proud of it. My students had no problem with it so ~
Ah, the ignorance. You must be American. When people hear English, they automatically think of the American way. Buuuttt, there’s many countries that speak English. Open up your mind.
(And this is coming from an American)
Cameron Pangborn ah but only Americans are stu.....