"ONE MORE TIME!!" The kids yelled, begged, and screamed at me.

Over the past two years as an ALT with Interac, I've heard this phrase from over a thousand students. Maybe it's after a round of Simon Says, or a game I made up five minutes before class, or maybe it's when we're just going over a standard, listening exercise from the textbook...but when I hear this phrase, I know I'm doing something right.

"One more time," is a simple phrase, but those three words hold so much within them. It's an attempt at communication, a desire to have fun, and most of all, it's the courage to try again.

Some days, when half the class is in their own world or someone is dead asleep even when the TV is blasting on full volume, it's hard to feel like your existence is adding any value to their lives.

But then that day comes...the day you finish your final lesson, hear the kids' voices unite to sing the school song one last time, sign your name on the yearbook of that kid who was always sleeping in class...

And by the time you say your last "goodbye" to the graduating faces you will probably never see again, you realize that this time, it is YOU who wants to do it all over "one more time."

I can't remember all of their names, so of course, I don't expect them to remember mine. Maybe in fifty years, I'll just be "that one ALT from when I was young." But, like how I'll remember a thousand excited and smiling faces, I know that even if our paths never cross again, somewhere out there, there are a thousand little memories of me smiling back at them and saying, "Okay. One more time."

PROS:
The supportive staff! Acclimating to a new environment and a new career anytime is hard, but it is especially difficult when you are abroad and have the additional hurdle of a language barrier. However, the Interac team has been so responsive and helpful whenever I reach out with questions/concerns. The experienced ALTs offer great advice for any classroom/school-related matters as well as tips on life in Japan. The team is incredibly understanding when it comes to taking off days for sick leave, mental health, personal reasons, etc. and will call to check-in to make sure that you're doing okay. The company is also very helpful for visa-related matters which significantly lessens the stress of living abroad.

Location flexibility. Since I applied domestically from within Japan, my placements allowed me to stay in my area without relocating. However, because of Interac's widespread involvement in the Japanese education system, if you are interested in moving to another city, it is easy to communicate your preferences with the team.

Good work-life balance. Because the job revolves around the Japanese school schedule, that means in addition to weekends and long seasonal holidays (spring, winter, summer), ALTs also get all national holidays off. This means there are many 3-day weekends to explore and enjoy Japan!

CONS:
Depending on where you are placed, the salary might be limiting for certain lifestyles.

Yes, the train rides might be a bit long, but honestly, they're a highlight of my week! Imagine gazing at the majestic Mt. Fuji not just once, but three times every week – it's an absolute privilege. And on those early arrival days? A tranquil walk along the beach is the perfect way to start the day.

Another school requires a trek through a lovely forest due to the quirky bus schedule, but I don't mind at all! As a nature enthusiast with a camera in hand, it's a welcome opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of the surroundings. Each journey to these schools fills me with anticipation and excitement.

But the most rewarding aspect of all? It's undoubtedly the students. Witnessing their quick progress and the immediate impact of our lessons is incredibly fulfilling. And it's a two-way street – I learn so much from them as well. Being in their company is a constant source of inspiration and growth. If you're looking for a teaching experience that combines stunning scenery with heartwarming connections, this is it!

Twenty-years ago, I dreamed of becoming a teacher in Japan, but I didn’t know where to start. I began volunteering to teach simple English songs at my son’s kindergarten during school gatherings. At the time, I thought my dream would remain just that-a dream. Everything changed when I met some ALTs, who reignited my passion for teaching. I attended various workshops focused on teaching English in Japan. When my ALT friends mentioned to me that the company they worked for was looking for ALT applicants. Encouraged, I applied and was hired. I have been working with Interac for five years now.

As an ALT, my role extends beyond the classroom. I enjoy spending time with students during breaks, especially those with special needs, as I aim to build their trust and confidence. I also update my English boards in my free time and help clean the school. I’m very grateful to Interac for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dream.

My experience as an Elementary ALT in Japan has been truly heartwarming and rewarding. Each day in the classroom brought new energy and excitement as I led fun phonics activities, sang English songs, and organized interactive games that encouraged students to speak confidently. Creating a positive and engaging learning environment was always my goal, and seeing students actively participate with bright smiles made every lesson special.

One of the most fulfilling moments was watching shy students gradually gain the courage to raise their hands and speak in English. Hearing them say simple sentences like “I like bananas!” or “How are you?” made every lesson meaningful.

Through effective collaboration with homeroom teachers, I contributed to well-organized and student-centered lessons that aligned with school objectives. My commitment to professionalism, punctuality, and adaptability has allowed me to integrate smoothly into the school community while supporting a productive learning atmosphere.

I am sincerely grateful to Interac for their guidance, training, and continuous support throughout my journey. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to inspire young learners, contribute to their growth, and further develop my passion for education.

Living and working in Japan had been a dream of mine since I was very young. I found out about this opportunity in my final year of college and I didn’t want to pass it up.

The first few months were not easy. Although, I could understand a decent amount of Japanese, getting used to the cultural differences took some effort. However, the people in my area have been very nice and the company has given me a lot of support. English is not as common in Shiga compared to large cities like Tokyo or Osaka, so some understanding of Japanese goes a long way.

There are many historical places to visit such as Hikone Castle. I would recommend this area to anyone who wants to experience a side of Japan they may not have seen before.

I am so happy that I chose to work with Interac! The staff are amazing and are very supportive of their teachers. I feel very comfortable reaching out with any questions or concerns I have. I also really enjoy teaching every day! Each and every school is different, but that offers a great variety of experiences each time I go in to teach. I feel like I am making a positive impact on my students and I hope they feel inspired to continue studying English in the future. I am pleased with my overall experience working with Interac and I would recommend them to others seeking to teach in Japan!

While being an ALT in Japan is a wonderful transitionary career choice for those who want to spend a year or two living abroad and experiencing everything that Japan has to offer, I've found it to be a worthwhile long term career choice that that has provided me with enough financial security to build a house and start a family here. Interac has been the most reliable and trustworthy company I've worked with over the years and I would highly recommend them to anyone interested in teaching in Japan.

Being an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) with Interac has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Seeing the students gradually gain confidence in English is the best part of the job. The students’ smiles and energy make every class truly meaningful and worthwhile.

Living in Japan has given me a deep appreciation for the local culture and the kindness of the people. Although the initial adjustment to the school system was a challenge, the support from Interac and the ALT community was a big help and made it much easier. This role has helped me grow both professionally and personally through daily interactions with students and co-teachers. I’m grateful for the chance to make a positive impact in the classroom while experiencing everything Japan has to offer.

Overall, my time as an ALT has been fulfilling. I’m thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the classroom while experiencing life in Japan.