A Life-Changing Experience - Teach English in Japan with Interac

Why did you choose this program?

I have always dreamed of living in Japan, drawn to its rich culture, traditions, and way of life. Teaching English with Interac provided the perfect opportunity to turn that dream into reality while making a meaningful impact in the classroom. As one of the largest ALT providers in Japan, Interac offers a wide range of placement options across the country, giving me the flexibility to experience different regions and immerse myself in Japanese society. This program has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, as I continue to develop my teaching skills while building connections with students and educators in Japan.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

Interac provided extensive support throughout the entire process of transitioning to life and work in Japan. They assisted with placement, visa sponsorship, and airport pickup, ensuring a smooth arrival. Their comprehensive training, held at well-equipped facilities, prepared me for the classroom environment and the expectations of working as an ALT.

Beyond the initial setup, Interac continued to offer essential support for everyday life in Japan. They helped with securing housing, registering at the local city office, opening a bank account, and other necessary administrative tasks, making it easier to settle into my new environment. Like many dispatch companies, they also provided ongoing guidance and assistance, ensuring that ALTs could navigate both professional and personal aspects of life in Japan with confidence.

However, there were several things I had to organize on my own. I needed to prepare all the necessary documents, including my college diploma, transcripts, employment certificates, and an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is essential for those placed in driving positions. Additionally, having sufficient funds to cover initial expenses was crucial in ensuring a smooth transition as I began my new journey in Japan.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Never be afraid of new challenges, and always stay curious about the world. Moving to a new country, adapting to a different work environment, and navigating cultural differences can seem daunting at first, but these experiences help you grow in ways you never imagined. The more you seek knowledge and immerse yourself in new experiences, the more wisdom and self-worth you gain. Approach every situation with an open mind, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—you’ll be amazed at how much you learn, both about the world and yourself.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

As an ALT with Interac, the daily routine is generally structured but can vary depending on the school placement. A typical day starts with arriving at school before the morning bell, greeting teachers and students, and preparing lesson materials. Throughout the day, I assist in multiple English classes, working alongside Japanese teachers to make lessons more interactive and engaging. Some schools encourage more active participation in lesson planning, while others expect ALTs to follow a set curriculum.

Outside of teaching, there’s time for classroom observations, grading, and sometimes participating in school events or clubs. One of the highlights of my week is interacting with students in a more relaxed setting—whether it’s chatting during lunch or playing sports with them after class.

The workweek is generally Monday to Friday, with weekends free. This allows time to explore Japan, experience local culture, or simply unwind. Some ALTs take up hobbies like learning Japanese, traveling to different prefectures, or engaging in community activities. It’s a good balance of work and personal growth.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was the language barrier. I worried about how I would navigate daily life in a country where many people are hesitant to communicate in English. But beyond that, I feared whether moving to Japan was the right decision for my career—whether this leap of faith would set me back or propel me forward. Every major life decision carries risks, and leaving behind familiarity for the unknown can be intimidating.

At first, the language barrier was challenging. Simple tasks like grocery shopping, reading signs, or even asking for help felt overwhelming. But I quickly learned that patience, a willingness to adapt, and even small efforts in speaking Japanese could go a long way. I started picking up useful phrases, using translation apps, and observing how locals communicated. Over time, I realized that language isn’t just about words—it’s also about body language, tone, and cultural understanding.

As for my career concerns, I came to see that no experience is ever wasted. Teaching in Japan has taught me invaluable skills—cultural adaptability, patience, and a global perspective—that I wouldn’t have gained elsewhere. Looking back, I now see that taking this risk was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I am the Managing Consultant (MC) for the Kita Kanto Branch which covers the Gunma, Ibaraki, Saitama and Tochigi prefectures. I started off as an ALT in September 2007 with Interac and spent my first three contracts until March 2010 in Ibaraki working as an ALT in two elementary schools and one junior high school.

After that, I moved to Tokyo and worked at two elementary schools, one of which was a special school in Shizuoka prefecture and I commuted by bullet train every Friday. I had to wake up at 4:30 in the morning for that assignment but I really enjoyed working with the students and staff at the very small school in the mountains.

In my second year in Tokyo, I was promoted to the position of Head Teacher for my particular board of education and during the year I started taking on training responsibilities as well. From April 2012 I was a full-time trainer for the Tokyo branch and in charge of nine boards of education.

From September 2013, I became the Managing Consultant and still remain in that position to this day. I currently am in charge of 163 ALTs living and working within the four prefectures listed previously.

My only experience teaching abroad is within Japan. I spent a week here along with a week in Taiwan visiting friends in late December 2006. It was within 36 hours of going around Tokyo that I found I really wanted to stay and learn more about the people, culture and language. I also had been working in schools for the previous three years in America so the chance to experience more of Japan and still work with children made Interac a perfect fit for me. A little over eight months later I was working with Interac in Japan and have been here ever since.