Interac Japan

Program Reviews

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Regina
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Life Changing Experience: Living & Teaching in the Land of the Rising Sun

Your decision to take this next step will enrich your life in a personal and professional way that no review can delineate. I've experienced living and teaching English in different cities across Japan through Interac for 6 years. My experience has been fulfilling, positively challenging, and, most importantly, self-actualizing. My arrival and settling in Japan were very smooth with the support of Interac. 

The Japanese culture is well known and admired by many, but being fully immersed in their way of life and witnessing it firsthand has exceeded my expectations. One of the most rewarding things has been the wonderful relationships I've cultivated with students and the positive impact I've had on their lives (and theirs on my own) through cultural exchange and English language education. 

English language education and cross-cultural understanding continue to grow and impact so many lives across Japan, and it has been an honor to be a part of the Interac group, which has significantly contributed to this. 

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Come with an open mind and a willingness to adapt to the way of life in Japan.
Pros
  • Impactful: You will immensely impact the lives of so many students, their outlook on other cultures and societies, and their interest in learning English. 
  • Lifelong Relationships: You will acquire so many meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life.
  • Language and Culture Acquisition: You will learn how to speak Japanese and acquire some of the most positive attributes of cultural immersion.
Cons
  • Language Barrier: This can be difficult, especially when dealing with more serious matters outside of social settings.
  • Isolation and Homesickness: The language barrier and being miles away from family and your own culture (especially the food for me) can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness.
  • The "unspoken" rules/culture: This may be a challenge, depending on your cultural norms and how well you can adapt.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Regina,

I'm glad you've had a good experience with Interac the last 6 years, and thank you for your hard work and contributions to local communities. We're very happy to have you on the team.

Many teachers say that the students and their interactions with the students are the best part of the job, and I agree 100% with that.

The photo above is really lovely. Where is this? I love sakura season.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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Jeraldine
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

ALT LIFE ( Sapporo branch)

I have been with Interac for 2 years and it has been a great experience. I have been through a lot last year may it be personal or at work, my company (Interac) has helped me to get through it. They always provides their assistance and support. The staff were very kind and friendly and always motivates us.
There were always have a work life balance since the job was very light. Time schedule were too light where you can still travel and have fun while working. I must say that my experience here so far are outstanding!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
I had a chance to travel and experienced the Ice drift walk in the eastern part of Hokkaido when my company had sent me to substitute to one of the school.
Pros
  • New experience
  • New environment
  • New people
Cons
  • It was too cold
  • Its quite far
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Jeraldine,

Thanks for your review. Very glad you've had a fufilling time the last 2 years. Although I'm not familiar with the struggles you've faced, I do know that our staff does all that they can to support teachers as much as possible.

I agree with you as well that the work-life balance of the ALT lifestyle is really great. It's one of the most attractive parts of living in Japan and working as an ALT.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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Richard
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Being an ALT in Japan

I've been an ALT since 2018, with Interac. Being an ALT is being a cultural ambassador. Aside from that, I'm assisting the JTEs in the class, I also create games for the students in order to have more engaging and fun learning experience. Which I thought that's all of it. But with Interac, there's a lot to explore. We get to expand our knowledge and experiences. We get to improve our lesson planning & teaching skills which was learnt from our training sessions. And we get to establish rapport with HRTs and JTEs.
That's why with Interac, you are not alone. You can get the support that you need in your ALT journey/life.

What was your funniest moment?
The time when I was dispatched to a school with a little knowledge of Japanese words... I ended up gesturing every words with the Japanese teachers.
Pros
  • Culture awareness
  • Learning new language
  • Safe environment
Cons
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Richard,

Thanks for the review and for your hard work in schools since 2018. I agree that there's a lot more to explore as an ALT and that doesn't get enough attention.

I agree that our support network is the best in the business, and I think that's one of the reasons for Interac's continued success in schools.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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Joe
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Go deeper than just visiting Japan

Working in Japan is a wonderful and challenging experience.
I have lived in Japan for 11 years. I started by studying abroad for one year and then came back have taught for 10 years through two different programs. I have lived in Okinawa, Honshu and Hokkaido. It has given me a wide view of how similar and in ways, different Japan is. Yet, the heart of Japan is similar and unique. Japanese are warmhearted and hard workers.

Working in Japan gives you a much deeper chance to get to know the land and people better than just traveling. In my experience, Japanese education is very good and the students enjoy learning. I have also enjoyed the chance to become part of the community taking part in local festivals and groups. I am married to a national and we have two kids and have made our home here.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
There is a big difference between living and working in a place compared to visiting a place. Be aware of the stages of living abroad and how to move through them. They are not always in order and can repeat more than once. Take care of yourself. I know I sound like a dad (I am a father of two) but eat well, set a healthy sleep pattern and exercise. Most ALTs are placed in the country side. For someone that likes to be outgoing it is great.
Put concentrated effort into learning Japanese and the culture. As a general rule of life you get the good, or bad, of what you put into anything. That includes work, studies, relationships and so on. So, enjoy your time and work hard and play hard. Your co-workers are a great way to learn about Japan but also spend time making outside of work friends. If you have a hobby/passion from your home country you might find some people here that enjoy it too or start a new. Making friends outside of work really helps the overall experience.
If you choose to teach in Japan, I highly recommend staying for more than one year. I have heard many people say that when you live and work abroad you spend the first year learning and then from the second year can really do your job. That being said, come with an attitude of always learning and improving your work and self. It will benefit you and those around you.
Enjoy Japan! 
Pros
  • Working with young adults and children is fun and rewarding
  • Get to visit many famous and less known locations in Japan on time off
  • A unique chance to go as deep into the culture and language as you like or can
Cons
  • Raise and bonuses even after a tenure are not possible
  • Low pay by western standards 
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the review. You're in the long-term category so your experience is very valuable. I'm glad that Interac has been able to be a part of helping you create a life for you and your family here in Japan.

I agree with you that the Japanese are warmhearted and getting to know them by living here is a better way than by just travelling. Being a part of the local community also helps a lot.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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Sean
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Decade of Empowering Education: Reflecting on My Time as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan

Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of serving as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan, partnering with Interac to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of education in this remarkable country. As I reflect on my journey, I am humbled by the countless experiences, lessons, and connections that have enriched both my professional and personal growth.

From my very first day in the classroom, I embraced a commitment to excellence that has guided my interactions with students, colleagues, and the community. With a passion for language learning and cultural exchange, I have striven to create dynamic and engaging lessons that inspire curiosity and foster confidence in English communication.

As an ALT, I recognize the invaluable role of cultural exchange in promoting mutual understanding and global citizenship. Through collaborative projects, cultural presentations, and interactive activities, I have challenged myself to bridge the gap between Japanese and English-speaking communities, fostering empathy, respect, and appreciation for diversity.

Central to my approach as an ALT is the belief in the potential of every student to succeed. By tailoring lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, I have encouraged students to discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve their academic and personal goals. Whether through language proficiency exams, speech contests, or international exchanges, witnessing the growth and achievement of my students has been profoundly rewarding.

Collaborative Partnerships:
My experience as an ALT has been characterized by collaborative partnerships with fellow educators, administrators, and the community. Through communication, teamwork, and a shared commitment to student success, I have tried to keep a supportive and inclusive learning environment where innovation thrives and every voice is valued.

As I reflect on the past decade, I am proud of the impact Interac and I have made in the lives of students, schools, and communities across Japan. From fostering English proficiency to promoting cultural understanding, our partnership has contributed to the enrichment of education and the cultivation of global citizens.

As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, friendships, and memories that have defined my time as an ALT in Japan. With unwavering dedication and a passion for transformative education, I am eager to continue inspiring future generations of learners and ambassadors of cross-cultural understanding.

In conclusion, my time as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan has been a transformative journey of growth, learning, and empowerment. Through collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to excellence, I am confident that Interac will continue to attract and nurture talented educators who are eager to make a meaningful impact in the classrooms of Japan. Join us in shaping the future of education and fostering global citizenship – the adventure awaits!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I could do this all over again, I would start this program earlier.
Pros
  • Cultural Immersion: You can learn about Japan and its culture first-hand.
  • Language Acquisition: You will improve your Japanese speaking ability.
  • Impactful Teaching: ALTs have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
Cons
  • Language Barrier: This may present some challenges both inside and outside of the classroom
  • Cultural Adjustment: Adjusting to cultural differences, such as societal norms, work practices, and expectations, can be a significant challenge for some ALTs, requiring patience, flexibility, and cultural sensitivity.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Sean,

Thanks for your detailed review! It's inspiring to hear from teachers who have as much experience as you do. I'm particularly interested in the collaborative partnerships you've made and how that impacted your teaching.

I really agree with you and think the biggest impact the ALT makes is on the lives of the students. I certainly felt like my students were better prepared for their futures as a result of studying English.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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Brian
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great location

Was paired in a location that fit my needs perfectly. My teachers, schools and the staff at Interac has been incredibly helpful and welcoming and if there any issues, it is usually addressed really quickly. The job has a lot of fun moments and it's nice to be involved with the local community and enjoy many of the activities that it brings. I learnt a lot about Japanese culture and by extension a unique culture to even most Japanese people. I was able to do interesting activities like sumo, hiking and partake in a lot of local events unique to the islands.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Be adaptable and live humbly.
Pros
  • Educational
  • Safe
  • Fun
Cons
  • Can get lonely at times being away from friends and family back home
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Brian,

I'm glad to hear you are enjoying your island placement. Working on an island presents its own challenges, but every teacher we've placed on one really enjoyed it.

It's wonderful that you're able to participate in local activities and experience the local community and culture.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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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.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Pedro,

Thanks for your review, and it's great to hear that you're enjoying teaching with Interac. The kids really are the best part of the job I think.

Living in Japan is really a great experience and I agree there's nothing like it. That's a beautiful waterfall in the photo there. One thing about Japan I really like is how every area has an accessible natural attraction of some kind, like a beach, a waterfall, mountains, etc.

I never thought about the job as one for people who didn't want to do "parental stuff," but I guess you can see it that way. Teachers are a kind of "third parent" and the work we do is very important for the kids.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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William
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Teaching with Interac

A wonderful experience in which a little hard work goes a long way to making a rewarding experience for yourself. Company does its utmost to set you up for success. All you need to do is seize the adventure for yourself.

I’ve been working here for six years, and I’m one of the younger employees. This experience was very helpful for me right out of school. Many teachers have come and discovered new lives for themselves here and elsewhere. Some people get the teaching bug and go back home to continue. Some move on to other countries. Some stay for a long time. I’m excited for my future here.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Embrace working in the schools. People are the real character of a country. Don’t get so wrapped up sightseeing when there’s plenty of connections to be had in your local community.
Pros
  • Support for Expats
  • Rewarding teaching experience
  • Opportunity to explore lesser known areas
Cons
  • Low pay by American standards
  • It is a job first, and some coworkers are passionate about this facet.
  • It can be isolating if you expect others to make the first move.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi William,

Thanks for your review. Six years already right out of school, reminds me of how I came to Japan. I totally agree that life in Japan is what you make of it.

I've seen the same thing you mentioned about teachers coming and going, some move on within Japan, some return home or go elsewhere. But, I think that's the same in life anywhere, people and situations change over time. One of my good friend from my early years with Interac now is a teacher in the UK, and another went on to own his own bicycle shop in Japan.

Those are some nice photos you shared! I like how Japan is a place where you can see forests, oceans, and mountains all in one shot! The street scene reminds me of the suburb of Sendai I used to live in.

I'm glad to hear you're excited for your future in Japan. We're glad that we can be a part of it and have you on the team.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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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.

Response from Interac Japan

Hi Rajdeep,

It's awesome to hear that your experience with Interac has been so positive! Getting to dive into Japan's vibrant culture while growing personally and professionally sounds like a dream come true. We're glad that you're part of the team.

The fact that you've been able to experience traditional festivals and local customs firsthand is really cool. It's those unique cultural experiences that make living and working abroad so special.

It's also great to hear that Interac has been so supportive throughout your journey, whether it's helping with paperwork or finding a place to live. Having that kind of support makes a big difference.

And making lifelong friends through work? That's the best! It sounds like you've really found a home at Interac.

We're so glad to have you as part of our team, and we're excited to see where your journey with Interac takes you next. Here's to many more amazing experiences ahead!

Best,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

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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