Teaching and Beyond

Working for my current company has been an interesting and challenging experience, especially as I adjusted to a new work environment in a foreign country. The Japanese staff and people at the Hiroshima branch provided much-needed support, which helped make the transition more manageable.

That said, my first few years were filled with hurdles, and let’s just say my teaching skills were a work in progress. Being an ALT is far more than just saying, "Repeat after me" or "Write this down." I occasionally confused my students (and myself) and faced my fair share of awkward silences. However, with time, perseverance, and guidance from colleagues, I found my footing—and even managed to get a few laughs along the way.

One of the more helpful aspects of my experience has been the support provided by the office and the Japanese support staff. Their willingness to assist and answer questions helped me gradually adapt to teaching and working with Japanese teachers. They ensured that I understood my responsibilities and provided useful feedback to help me improve my teaching methods and interactions with students.

Beyond the workplace, the Hiroshima staff also extended their support to daily life in Japan. From taking public transportation (without ending up in the wrong city) to understanding local customs, their assistance helped ease some of the challenges of settling into a new country. They also offered guidance on essential services such as setting up a bank account, accessing healthcare, and finding suitable accommodation, which made the transition into Japanese society a little smoother.

While there have been ups and downs, my experience in Japan has been an opportunity for growth and adaptation. The learning curve was steep, but over time, I have gained valuable skills and insights that have shaped my professional and personal journey.