Interac Japan

Program Reviews

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Pedro
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Being an ALT is Fun and Rewarding

Being an assistant language teacher (ALT), in Japan, has been the most rewarding job of my life. Everyday, I come into work greeted by good energy and happy faces, to do a fun job. Kids are hilarious and I enjoy working with them.

I love living in Japan; everywhere you go, it's clean and safe. I also love how old tradition is blended with new technology, making a culture that is both ancient and modern, traditional and progressive. There's nothing like it.

If you like living in different cultures, if you like sharing your own with others, if you want to work with kids but don't want to deal with discipling them or parental stuff then this job is for you.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Make an effort to learn Japanese. It is essential to enjoying your stay here. At the same time, if you've always wanted to learn Japanese, this job will give you the immersion you need to make quick progress.
Pros
  • Japan has lots of holidays and the job is "9 to 5".
  • The job is fun.
  • Cultural immersion, see the Japan that tourists never see.
Cons
  • Culture Shock: Japanese culture has many unspoken rules.
  • Culture Shock: Japanese culture is very formal.
  • Culture Shock: Japanese communication is very non-verbal.
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Rajdeep
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My three years with Interac : A fulfilling journey.

Working for Interac has been an enriching and fulfilling experience that I wouldn't trade for anything. Over the past three years, I've had the opportunity to delve into the vibrant culture of Japan while simultaneously growing both personally and professionally.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at Interac has been the diverse cultural experiences I've encountered. From participating in traditional festivals to immersing myself in local customs, each day brought new insights and appreciation for the rich tapestry of Japanese culture.

Beyond cultural immersion, Interac has provided an exceptional level of support, both in living and working in Japan. Whether it was navigating the complexities of paperwork or finding the perfect accommodation, the company's unwavering assistance ensured a smooth transition and enabled me to focus on making the most of my experience abroad.

Moreover, the camaraderie among colleagues has been invaluable. Through collaborative projects and team-building activities, I've forged meaningful connections and made lifelong friends. The supportive and inclusive work environment fostered by Interac has truly enhanced my overall experience.

As I reflect on my time with Interac, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities it has afforded me. The invaluable skills I've acquired and the memories I've created are treasures that I will carry with me for years to come.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of continuing my journey with Interac. With a company culture that values growth, diversity, and innovation, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise while furthering my professional development.

In conclusion, working for Interac has been nothing short of remarkable. From the enriching cultural experiences to the unwavering support provided by the company, I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a dynamic and rewarding organization. Here's to many more years of growth and success with Interac.

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Kevin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Opportunity for Cultural Immersion

As someone who has worked as both an ALT with Interac and previously elsewhere as an English teacher at a private cram school, I have found some great points about working through Interac.

First, Interac does a great job of offering support for living in Japan to the amount needed by the ALT. There are many guides and helpful staff members that are available for reference on everything from paperwork at city hall to classroom management.
For someone like me who has already settled in Japan before working for the company, Interac is also great at letting me handle my own life. The company is always there to help, but is flexible enough to allow for autonomy.

Most of the day-to-day work that goes on can differ greatly depending on the board of education and schools that an ALT is assigned to. Although this can mean that the resources available and level of prep needed at each school can vary, Interac provides a depth of lesson plans and guides that assist with putting together a good lesson.
Meeting the needs of the school and students comes first, but the way in which you approach your lessons can be done in a way that utilizes your strengths. This opportunity for creativity in lesson planning keeps the job fresh and allows for continued adjustments from year to year.

One of the greatest strengths of an ALT teaching position is that you work directly in a school. If you are interested in experiencing Japanese culture, this provides great immersion for trying many foods through school lunches as well as experience in Japanese formal ceremonies such as graduation. Japanese language experience is not required for the job, but if you are interested in learning or improving, being able to talk to other school staff is a great opportunity to both share your native culture and learn about the local area.

In addition, the scheduling for Interac is very friendly to traveling and exploring your town. Working for schools provides a standard Monday through Friday work week with daylight left in the day when finished. This is a huge contrast to working at an English language cram school, where days start and end very late to accommodate students that attend school during the day.
A standard yearly school schedule also includes summer and winter vacations, which typically have some work days and training days. These days are paid labor, so they are nice to keep monthly income from being too irregular.
Interac has always been extremely nice and encouraging about taking planned vacations and using sick days. I never feel pressured when planning things on my own, and staff is always cooperative when advanced notice is given, or during sudden emergencies that require absence.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
As a new ALT, it may feel overwhelming to learn how to teach out of new textbooks. One thing I would greatly recommend is to be sure to inject examples using your own local culture. Students and teachers alike are always surprised and interested about the ways in which our foreign cultures differ from their own. Students may have seen foreign holidays in media, but there may be elements they aren't aware of.
Getting extremely local with examples can be a lot of fun; my students were amazed at the "potato drop" that Idaho does every year to mimic the Times Square ball drop. The puzzled look on students faces when I show them pictures of the giant spud is priceless!
Pros
  • Assistance is readily available for daily life, but isn't mandatory where unnecessary.
  • Being in a public school allows for great cultural immersion.
  • Very healthy work/life balance, as schedules follow a standard Japanese school year.
Cons
  • Work is performed for a school, but you are employed by Interac. Miscommunications are very rare, but can happen.
  • Stress is lower than working at an English cram school, but so is the salary.
Response from Interac Japan

Dear Kevin,

Thank you for sharing your insightful perspective on working as an ALT with Interac. It's great to hear that you've found several positive aspects of working with us, especially regarding the support and flexibility we provide.

We're glad that our support for living in Japan has been beneficial to you, whether it's through our training, the local staff, or the autonomy we offer. It's also wonderful to hear that you appreciate the variety in day-to-day work and the opportunity for creativity in lesson planning. We strive to provide resources that assist in delivering engaging lessons while allowing for personal flair and adaptation.

Your mention of the immersion in Japanese culture through school activities and the flexibility of the work schedule highlights some of the unique advantages of being an ALT. We're delighted that you've had the opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand and that our scheduling has allowed you to explore and travel.

Thank you for your dedication to your students and for being a part of our team. We appreciate your positive feedback and look forward to continuing to support you in your teaching journey with Interac.

Warm regards,

George

Interac Marketing Team

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Marflin
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

School Year Review

It was a great year to be honest and I was able to get out of my comfort zone as I became T1 for the schools that I am taught. For the most part, there were adjustments but I was able to overcome challenges with the help of the HRTs and JTEs making the classes fun and very interesting. I just do hope that I will be able to continue teaching with the schools that I am with this year for continuity purposes and consistency/relationships to students and teachers. I guess with this in mind, I would love to be a part of the schools that I am assigned with as the comfortability is also a great factor but nevertheless, to SUM it ALL UP, the SCHOOL YEAR WAS A BLAST.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
Perhaps, if I'd do it once again, I should have had deeper connections and relationships with teachers and students. I have had a great relationships with both but I think there should be more to it.
Pros
  • Motivation
  • Inspire others to work at their best
  • Be on TOP
Cons
  • There should be awards to most teachers as most of them work hard too
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Nikka
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

ALT in Japan

Assistant Language Teacher in Japan is really a fun experience for me. I love kids and this job is giving it to me. That feeling of happiness whenever I get to see their happy faces and excitement during our English classes. Most of the Japanese students know zero English. Some of them really want to learn, but some of them have no intentions to learn at all. This job is not easy, but if you know what you're doing and you can get your students attention, it will be really fun. This job has a lot of challenges, but hey all jobs have their own challenges right? We all can do it!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
So in Japanese Elementary Schools, we have school lunch. One time they served us a whale. I was shocked! I didn't even know that I had a whale for lunch. One Teacher came up to me and asked if I liked my lunch, I said yes of course it was delicious. And then whe she said it was a whale, I just wanted to go to the toilet and throw up. lol But it was really delicious.
Pros
  • You don't have to know Japanese to teach English in Japan, since you are not allowed to speak Japanese to your students.
  • Learning Japanese culture
  • If you have some Japanese Teachers that can speak English, you can ask them questions whenever you need help for anything.
Cons
  • Not knowing Japanese Language can be a little difficult to communicate with Japanese Teachers.
Response from Interac Japan

Dear Nikka,

It's wonderful to hear that you're finding joy in your role as an Assistant Language Teacher with Interac. Your passion for working with kids shines through in your words, and we're delighted that you're able to experience the happiness and excitement of your students during English classes.

You're absolutely right that this job comes with its challenges, but your positive attitude and determination are inspiring. Your commitment to engaging your students and making learning fun is truly commendable. We believe that with your dedication and enthusiasm, you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.

Thank you for being a part of our team and for making a difference in the lives of your students. Keep up the fantastic work!

Warm regards,

George

Interac Marketing Team

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Jarrod
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Transformative Journey: Teaching English with Interac in Japan

As a foreigner teaching English with Interac in Japan, I can wholeheartedly say that it has been an enriching and rewarding experience. Winning the Motivation Instructor award at the Interac ALT Awards was truly an honor and a testament to the dedication and support provided by the organization.

Interac has provided me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students in local schools. From fostering language skills to promoting cultural exchange, every day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth.

The support and resources provided by Interac have been invaluable. From comprehensive training programs to ongoing professional development, I have felt supported every step of the way. The sense of community among fellow teachers and staff further enhances the experience, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

Living and working in Japan has allowed me to immerse myself in a rich and vibrant culture. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in delicious cuisine, there is never a dull moment outside the classroom.

Overall, my time with Interac has been nothing short of transformative. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the success of Interac's teachers and to be a part of such a dynamic and fulfilling program.

I highly recommend Interac to anyone looking for a rewarding experience teaching English abroad. Joining Interac has been one of the best decisions I've ever made, and I am excited to continue making a difference in the lives of students in Japan.

Thank you, Interac, for this incredible opportunity.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Embrace Cultural Differences:
Japan is a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, and immersing yourself in its culture is key to a fulfilling experience. Embrace cultural differences with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Take the time to explore local customs, traditions, and etiquette—it will enrich your experience both inside and outside the classroom.

Be Flexible and Adaptable:
Teaching abroad comes with its own set of challenges, but being flexible and adaptable is essential. Embrace the unexpected and approach each day with a positive attitude. Whether it's navigating language barriers or adjusting to a new teaching environment, flexibility will help you overcome obstacles and thrive in your role.

Build Strong Relationships:
The relationships you build with students, colleagues, and local communities will greatly enhance your experience with Interac. Take the time to connect with students on a personal level, engage with fellow teachers, and participate in community events. Building strong relationships fosters a sense of belonging and support, making your time in Japan truly memorable.

Seek Support and Resources:
Interac offers a wealth of support and resources to help you succeed in your role as an English teacher. Take advantage of training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities to enhance your teaching skills and professional development. Don't hesitate to reach out to fellow teachers and staff for guidance and support—it's all part of the Interac community.

Embrace Adventure:
Living and working in Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and embrace adventure. Explore new cities, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese culture. Whether it's hiking through scenic landscapes or discovering hidden gems in bustling cities, Japan has something to offer every adventurer.
Pros
  • Teaching with Interac in Japan offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and lifestyle.
  • Interac provides comprehensive training and support, allowing teachers to enhance their skills and grow as educators.
  • Making a positive impact on the lives of students while experiencing the beauty of Japan is incredibly rewarding.
Cons
  • Dealing with language barriers can sometimes pose challenges, especially in communication with non-English speaking colleagues and students.
  • Balancing work responsibilities with personal time and exploration in a foreign country can be demanding.
  • Adjusting to a new teaching environment, cultural norms, and living conditions may take time and effort.
Response from Interac Japan

Dear Jarrod,

Congratulations on winning the Motivation Instructor award at the Interac ALT Awards! We are thrilled to hear that your experience with Interac has been enriching and rewarding. Your dedication to your students and passion for teaching shine through in your words, and we are proud to have you as part of our team.

It's wonderful to hear that you have found the support and resources provided by Interac to be invaluable. We strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment for all our teachers, and we are delighted that you have felt supported every step of the way.

We are glad to hear that living and working in Japan has been such a positive experience for you. Japan's rich culture and vibrant communities offer endless opportunities for exploration and growth, both inside and outside the classroom.

Thank you for your recommendation and for being a part of our dynamic and fulfilling program. We look forward to continuing to support you in your teaching journey and to seeing the continued impact you make on the lives of students in Japan.

Warm regards,

George

Interac Tokyo Office

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Keanu
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

When you take a leap....

A click on an interesting advert has given me the opportunity to meet and teach some of the most wonderful kids you could ever meet and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful, culturally rich places in the world. In Hokkaido, which I lovingly call the frontier, things are a bit slower than life in other big cities. But, admittedly, it isn't for everyone's liking. But, from my time here, I can say there is something for everybody - with the added benefit of smaller crowds for you to really enjoy the experiences. Be it food, nature or cultural experiences. It requires a little effort to find something you love. For me though, the best part is the job. Everyday I get to spend with my students is a literal blessing. Watching their eyes light up the moment they see me walking towards their classroom never gets old. And, knowing I get to make an impact in their lives in one way or another is icing on the cake for me.

On the negative side, again, things here are slower than in Tokyo or Osaka. So, most things here close at 9pm - except for the convenience stores (of course) and the odd fast food restaurant. So, depending on where you are in the Sapporo (or Hokkaido generally) 10pm can literally be a ghost town. I'll admit, that was an adjustment - even as someone who prefers the quiet. The biggest challenge however I would say are the occasional stares. Not menacing in anyway; but, certainly inquisitive. Most times, I understand it. It is very rare to see someone of African descent (Black) here in Sapporo; I accept it as natural to want to figure me out (except Japanese culture doesn't encourage direct confrontation). But, it can be daunting and uncomfortable at times. And, there are days when it is just really annoying. That said, I have no other major complaints.

So, if you want to try something different, certainly Japan offers that in abundance.
If a slower pace and colder place is your ideal fit, I really think you'll love Hokkaido.
If you love working with children, then this job will suit you perfectly.

Pros
  • Food here is cheap (though I wouldn't mind a larger serving)
  • English is everywhere (or almost everywhere); so, Japanese language skills are not required.
  • Safe - I've lived in Jamaica and the US, and I have never felt safer.
Cons
  • Slower pace and not as much nightlife in Hokkaido (from my limited experience)
  • The winters can be really cold and sometimes really long.
  • Being in Hokkaido limits your ability to see the rest of Japan.
Response from Interac Japan

Dear Keanu,

Thank you for sharing your heartfelt experience with us. We're delighted to hear that you are having such fulfilling and rewarding experience in Hokkaido. It's fantastic to hear that you've found joy and purpose in teaching the wonderful kids there and exploring the cultural richness of the region.

We understand that the slower pace of life in Hokkaido, while charming for some, may not be everyone's cup of tea. We appreciate your honesty in highlighting this aspect, as well as the occasional challenges you face, such as the limited late-night options and the curious stares. Your resilience and positive outlook shine through in your words, and we admire your ability to embrace the differences and make the most of your time there.

Thank you for being a part of Interac and for making a meaningful impact on the lives of your students. We wish you continued success and fulfillment in your teaching journey in Hokkaido.

Warm regards,

George

Interac Tokyo Office

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Holly
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Interac Japan Review

I have not been in the program for long, but I have had a great experience so far. Moving to Japan was really difficult but the staff helped me through it and were patient with my mistakes. This is my first time teaching in a classroom, and everyone has been very understanding of my shortcomings. The most difficult part of the program was figuring out how to get to my placement location, since I had to get from the airport to location on my own.
Adjusting to the move has also been difficult. It was expensive to furnish my apartment, so it is important to be aware of the cost.
However I have had a great time traveling around Japan, trying new foods, meeting new people, and learning how to be a better teacher and member of Japan.

Pros
  • Patient and communicative staff
  • Travel experience
  • Kind community
Cons
  • Solo travel to location upon arrival
  • No bed, stove, or washing machine provided
  • No control over placement location
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Holly,

Thanks for sharing your positive experience with Interac! We're delighted to hear you're having a great time, despite the challenges.

Moving to Japan can be tough, but we're glad our team has been patient and supportive. Your dedication to teaching is commendable, and we appreciate your feedback on the placement logistics—we'll work on making it smoother.

We understand furnishing your apartment was costly, and your insight will help us improve our guidance for future participants. We're thrilled you're enjoying Japan and growing as a teacher.

Your recommendation means a lot. If you have more insights or need support, feel free to reach out. Here's to more success and adventures in Japan!

Best,

George
Interac Team

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Bill
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A true life and work balance and an enriching experience

I have been working for Interac for the past year, and my experience has been remarkable. The human-centered management style enables a greater sense of trust and teamwork within the company. The support is outstanding, whatever the issue at hand.

For me, after our baby was born, my wife and I decided to take a step back from the daily career hustle. At the same time, I was pursuing my PhD and wanted to focus on my research. My recruiter understood my needs, and I was matched with the right school. Working at Interac allowed me to focus on the well-being of our new addition, spend much-appreciated time with my family, do research, and still make a decent living with a contributing job. I have been welcomed and embraced by the community since joining my current school. The working hours are set solidly, which means one can always have the rest of the afternoon to pursue whatever side hustle/hobby/exploration one fancies. Weekends are off, and there is a nice, long summer vacation, not to mention Golden Weeks and other frequent national holidays. This is truly precious for me in this new chapter of my life. I plan to work for Interac for a long time.

Pros
  • Outstanding support
  • work life balance
  • There's no better way to immerse yourself in a true Japanese culture
Cons
  • There are always cons if we choose to focus on them. Need Japanese language capabilities to advance further up the ranks. But that's all over Japan.
Response from Interac Japan

Dear Bill,

We are thrilled to receive your outstanding review and are delighted to hear about your remarkable experience working with Interac over the past year. Also thank you for the beautiful photos of your area, they are really great!

Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

It warms our hearts to know that our human-centered management style has fostered a greater sense of trust and teamwork within the company. We are particularly pleased that our support has been outstanding for you, and we are grateful to have played a part in accommodating your needs during such an important and transformative period in your life.

Congratulations on your PhD pursuit and the arrival of your new addition to the family! We're thrilled to have been able to support you in finding the right match for your skills and aspirations. It's wonderful to hear that our structured working hours and generous time off have allowed you to strike a balance between your career, family, and personal pursuits.

Your commitment to a long-term partnership with Interac is truly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing to support you on your professional journey. If there's ever anything you need or if you have further insights to share, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Thank you once again for your positive recommendation, and we are honored to have you as a valued member of the Interac community.

Best regards,

George
Interac Team

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Richard
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A very pleasant company

I've been working with Interac for a few years now. The company has always treated me quite fairly and they've always been helpful with the few issues that pop up with being a foreigner in a foreign land. When you need them, the support staff can help you resolve issues almost immediately. Working with the students is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. You have one job and that's to make English fun. This can be particularly difficult at times, especially with the big exams for schools that pop up. You want students to see English as a game, something fun to do between their history and math classes. I think the most important thing is to love English itself. English is such a funny language and we have so many fun little expressions that can really liven up the experience for students. "I like dogs" vs "I like dog" and the like can really make students perk up.

Pros
  • Working with students is fun
  • Interac doesn't intrude on your day-to-day
  • Japan is a wonderful country
Cons
  • Can be lonely at times
Response from Interac Japan

Hey there!

I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed your time working with Interac.

It's always great to work for a company that treats you fairly and with respect. I completely agree with you on the joys of working with students. It's so rewarding to be able to teach them and help them learn in a fun and engaging way.

I think you're right that the key to success is making English enjoyable, and I love your enthusiasm for the language itself. Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing your experience with us!

Cheers,

Interac Recruiting Team
Tokyo

PS: Love the pics! Looks like a great area!