What is your favorite travel memory?
My favorite travel memory is exploring the Philippines with a friend I met while working as an ALT in Japan. She was from the Philippines, so she became my personal guide as we traveled through Cebu, Palawan, and Negros. We went island hopping, explored towns by motorized tricycle, and even stayed with her family in the mountains of Negros. While the scenery and experiences were incredible, what made the trip truly special was seeing the Philippines through my friend’s eyes and getting to experience her culture and hometown in a much more personal way. It was a wonderful reminder that some of the best travel experiences come from the people you meet along the way.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I never saw myself as a leader when I first started with Interac. Teaching helped me develop confidence and communication skills, while joining the Head Teacher team pushed me even further outside my comfort zone. I discovered that I could thrive in a leadership role and became comfortable taking on responsibilities I once never imagined for myself. My younger self would definitely be surprised!
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
An ALT once told me about a student who seemed uninterested in English and often struggled to engage in class. The ALT continued to be kind and supportive, even though they weren't sure their efforts were making much of a difference. Years later, they met the student again and learned that they planned to study English in college, partly because of the positive memories they had of their ALT and those lessons. The ALT had no idea at the time that their support was making such an impact. I love this story because it captures one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. You may never know the difference you’ve made as a teacher, but knowing that you have the potential to make one makes every moment worthwhile.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
The Koushinetsu Branch covers a wonderfully diverse part of Japan, including Toyama, Ishikawa, Niigata, Nagano, Yamanashi, and the Tokyo Islands. From beautiful coastlines and expansive plains to the Japanese Alps and traditional mountain towns, there is an incredible variety of scenery, culture, and experiences to explore. Our locations also offer great access to some of Japan’s most famous destinations, while giving ALTs the opportunity to experience a side of Japan that is often overlooked by tourists. Whether you love nature, history, food, or simply discovering new places, Koushinetsu has something for everyone.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
I think what makes Interac unique is the strength of its support network. With positions across Japan, ALTs have the opportunity to experience many different parts of the country, while also having a team behind them wherever they are. From teaching advice and professional development to navigating everyday life in Japan, there is always someone they can reach out to.
I was especially proud of our Koushinetsu team when a new ALT was struggling during her first few weeks to adjust to her role and communicate with her school. One of our Head Teachers went to her school for several days to provide on-the-job training and help communicate with the school to clarify expectations. Not long after, we received feedback that the school was very happy with the ALT and her efforts. She also seemed much more comfortable and confident after receiving that support, and she is now building a life for herself in Japan. It reminded me just how much of an impact proactive support can have.
I was especially proud of our Koushinetsu team when a new ALT was struggling during her first few weeks to adjust to her role and communicate with her school. One of our Head Teachers went to her school for several days to provide on-the-job training and help communicate with the school to clarify expectations. Not long after, we received feedback that the school was very happy with the ALT and her efforts. She also seemed much more comfortable and confident after receiving that support, and she is now building a life for herself in Japan. It reminded me just how much of an impact proactive support can have.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
For me, the biggest factor in a successful company is its people. Passion, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to doing your best can make all the difference. At Interac, many of our staff started their careers as ALTs themselves, so they understand firsthand the challenges and rewards of living and working in schools in Japan. That experience gives them a unique perspective and a real desire to help the next generation of ALTs succeed. I’m proud to work alongside people who care deeply about what they do, support one another, and hold themselves to high standards. When you have people who are passionate about their work and invested in each other’s success, I believe the company naturally becomes stronger.