I have been with the company for 15 years now. It has been a fulfilling experience to help the students not just in language acquisition, but most importantly in their holistic growth. I can truly say that working with Interac is both rewarding and meaningful. Beyond the classroom moments like joining English camps, the After-School program and the trainings, what makes my journey even more rewarding is knowing that my efforts are always recognized and valued by the company. It`s encouraging when your dedication, commitment and hard work - big or small, don`t go unnoticed. The recognitions motivate me to make an impact to the lives of every student and the Japanese teachers that I work with, and to create exemplary contributions to the company.

The greatest thing about my job is the feeling of success and accomplishment in seeing the lessons I teach take hold within a student, and seeing that bear fruit -- actually witnessing the student's self-confidence grow; seeing them acknowledge that they can actually employ what they have learned is a feeling I'd never experienced before.

It's easy to think you can come here and teach English - and you are, of course - but you're also actively making the world a little bit better, each and every day.

I have been living in Japan for 26 years now. Before I dreamt of teaching in a Japanese school, but I didn’t know where to start. I thought it would be just that-a dream. Everything changed when I met ALTs in Bizen. My passion for teaching reignited again. I attended various workshops focused on teaching in Japan. Until my friends told me that Interac was looking for ALT applicants. Encouraged, I applied and got hired. I have been with Interac for 5 years now. Thank you, Interac, you made my dream come true.

I had never heard of Kumamoto before moving here. It seemed like an odd place to go, and I was only headed here because of my company. And I'm so glad that I did. Though it isn't the largest city, there's a wealth of things to do, from enjoying the shopping districts, taking in the rich history, and exploring the mountainsides.

The people are very receptive to foreigners and eager to share culture. My students are always eager to learn English and I have a blast teaching them. I'm looking forward to working here for many years to come and feel right at home.

I have been working for Interac for almost a decade now.

I started here because back then it was the only company that hired English speakers who didn't know how to speak Japanese. I graduated under a different degree, far from becoming an English teacher. But it was my first time in Japan and I have zero Japanese proficiency. I thought I'd work for the company for a year or two, while I study Japanese and acquire my JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) certificate.

When I first started, I found it very challenging. I didn't really have much trouble dealing with the students, as kids are not that hard to get along with, but all the barriers I faced with my coworkers at school were. The cultural barrier, language barrier, even though at that time I was studying Japanese, so I already knew some expressions and could get by with everyday life, I still struggled a lot.

I remember calling my manager all the time. Complaining and whining about how my week-long training was disparate from the real workplace. I was adamant on quitting after my first contract. In the first 3 months of working, I think my manager was sick of my emails, but with her patience and support, I was able to make it through to summer break.

During the entire summer break, my mind was set on leaving the company, I was already looking for other jobs. But when I came back after the break, I started liking it. I grew accustomed to my surroundings, I learned how to cope and adapt to my situation. I found satisfaction in overcoming the daily mundane challenges of living and making a living in a foreign country.

I guess because I started out realizing that I find joy in growth, I just continued to evolve. Most of it is not recognized by my company, because my assignment is remote from the main office, but it is definitely recognized by my workplace and my peers.

Fast forward to almost a decade later, I still find joy in growing and evolving. I teach in junior high schools. If you think about it, anyone can teach. Everyone has the ability to teach. But not everyone has the ability to be a teacher. To wear the many hats that a teacher has, to embrace the diversity of minds that a teacher gets to work with everyday, with ages ranging from toddlers all the way up to retired co-workers who still volunteer their time at schools. I find myself constantly learning something new about them, and in return, I learn something new about myself too. I get to unlock a perspective, a character in me that I never would have had I taken a different path.

When I was searching for a teaching program in Japan, I had a few important questions: Will I be supported? Will I grow professionally? Will I truly connect with my students? After two years with Interac, I can say that the experience answered those questions in meaningful ways.

In my first year, I was recognized as one of our branch’s Rising Star ALTs. But beyond the award, what meant the most to me was building strong connections with my students. I made it a priority to learn their interests, encourage them consistently, and create a classroom where they felt safe to try English without fear of making mistakes. Some of my proudest “small wins” were seeing students greet me in English in the hallways or shy learners bravely starting small conversations outside the classroom. Those moments showed me that the impact went beyond the lesson itself.

I was also given the opportunity to serve as a cultural ambassador. My school invited me to introduce Filipino culture and cuisine, and with Interac’s support, I even taught my co-teachers how to cook Filipino dishes. These exchanges strengthened relationships with both students and staff.

In my second year, I was reassigned to a more challenging school in a new area. The transition pushed me out of my comfort zone, but Interac’s monthly trainings and proactive guidance on building rapport in a Japanese work environment helped me adapt quickly. Through consistent effort and support, I gained my school’s trust and was later recognized nationwide as a Top Motivational Instructor.

Success as an ALT still requires initiative and heart. But if you are willing to do your part, Interac provides the support and training that allow you to grow and make a lasting impact, one student at a time.

I've been living in Japan for 6 years and counting. Coming from a warm country to a place that has all four Seasons, you can only manage imagine my excitement. I've always seen snow on the television, but not in real life. This company made it all possible and for that, I am truly grateful. Bonus points, I've also learnt a new language, something I've never dreamt or thought of. Yes, it's difficult but not impossible once you put your mind to it. I've not regretted my decision since. Just try it.

As someone who for the longest time had been dreaming of experiencing Japan outside of a holiday.
It has not disappointed me!

I have only recently joined Interac, having been here since only December. The company and the people on it have been nothing but welcoming and assisting me along the way.

I have been lucky enough to work with so many others from the company who have helped me grow in the role and improve skills I wasn't aware I was capable of.

Overall it has been a fulfilling so far experience and I have no regrets coming here.

I have taught and interacted with so many students and I am confident I have inspired atleast some students to pursue not only English, but to see other countries around the world.

If you are looking to see a different side of Japan, I 100% recommend giving Interac Japan a go.

Adventure awaits!