My experience as an ALT has been generally positive. The company provides clear instructions and is helpful when issues arise. I especially appreciate their assistance in coordinating school placements. My work at school has been rewarding. It is not only about teaching English but also about serving as an ambassador for my country. I get to share my culture and knowledge at the same time.

The school where I teach visited my country for a study tour program, during which selected students were able to immerse themselves in regular school settings and participate in various activities. Their communication skills improved significantly, and they enjoyed the activities included in the program while learning new things about my country.

My experience working in Japan as an ALT has been incredibly fun and enjoyable, though not without its challenges. With a company like Interac, you get the freedom to balance your personal life with your professional responsibilities, but you never feel like you’re navigating it completely alone. This support network gives you the confidence to explore the culture and connect with the people around you, while still affording you the space to be yourself and manage your own life. In the classroom, I’ve found great joy in making a genuine impact on young learners and instilling a real love for foreign languages in them. My colleagues—both the staff at my schools and the friends I’ve made within the company—have become lifelong connections who continue to help me daily. Overall, living and working in Japan as an English teacher comes with its hurdles, but it is an incredibly rewarding experience that I am very happy to be a part of.

My experience as an AET in Osaka Japan has been tremendous. It is a wonderful opportunity that I would suggest to any young adult seeking experience outside of their home country. The residual benefits of teaching abroad in Osaka, Japan have been numerous. Some of the rewarding benefits I have gained are learning another language, learning new and exciting things I could not in my home country, and meeting friends from other countries that I will have for a lifetime. This opportunity has changed my life truly for the better! If you are looking to learn more about international societies and gain experience outside of your home country. I would highly suggest teaching ESL in Japan through Interac. Interac is a great company with very helpful professionals that make the transition of moving and living abroad smooth and enjoyable. Enjoy teaching abroad, and gain a new perspective of life!

Working in Yamagata has been amazing. There is tremendous natural beauty, many interesting historical sites, and lots of activities. If you love winter sports or hiking, Yamagata is perfect. The people here are generally welcoming and love their home. The quality, variety, and cost of food are all excellent as well. As for working with Interac specifically, it is a great opportunity. The schedule is consistent and relaxed, and having a car lets you tour all over. I would highly recommend this program.

Seven years ago, I came to Japan in search of greener pastures, uncertain if I could endure the valleys and mountains of life in a foreign land. Along the way, Interac became my scaffolding—steadily supporting me as I grew in confidence, resilience, and purpose. Through my students, I found renewed inspiration and joy in teaching, and through every season. I discovered the quiet beauty of life in Japan. Today, my family and I are deeply grateful for the stability, peace, and blessings we now enjoy.

I've been an ALT in Japan for over ten years and still find it enjoyable and gratifying. Japan is a great place to live and work. It has all four seasons, and there is always something intriguing going on. Furthermore, the ability to go to practically anywhere in the country in a single day by high-speed trains makes sightseeing quite convenient. Add to that the fact that as an ALT, you are entitled to extensive vacations in each season, which makes exploring much easier. So, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a beginner, come to Japan and give it a shot.

When I first came to Japan, I was unsure how a career shift would affect my life. Moving from a corporate background into education felt like a risk, and I often questioned whether such a change could truly work. However, my experience as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) with Interac proved that stepping off a familiar path can lead to meaningful growth.

What made this experience unique was the strong support system. From the beginning, Interac’s training provided practical classroom strategies and a clear understanding of Japanese school culture. With guidance from company trainers and daily collaboration with my homeroom teachers, I gradually improved my teaching skills and gained confidence. Through this process, I discovered a genuine passion for teaching young learners.

For future participants, it is important to know that this role is more than teaching English. It is an opportunity to grow professionally and personally, to learn from experienced educators, and to become part of a school community. Flexibility, openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn go a long way in making the experience successful.

My journey with Interac has been a rewarding and transformative chapter in my life. I am grateful for the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities that allowed me to grow as an educator, and I would encourage future ALTs to embrace the challenge and trust the learning process.

I'm from Pretoria, South Africa. I joined Interac through XploreAsia in March 2023. My first choice was the countryside.

Kamishihoro is a great town for people who want to explore Greater Hokkaido. The Naitai Highland Farm is Japan's biggest public ranch (1700 hectares). Also, check out the Nukabira ski resort, Taushubetsu River Bridge, and Dream Dolce'.

BBQ or ''Yakiniku'' (in Afrikaans we say “braai”) has been one of the best ways for me to meet new people. I play guitar, frequent festivals, and the local judo club in town. It helps to try the usual proactive or “old cliché’’ sort of thing to ward off the evil cloud of despair.

Tokachi has mountain ranges with crystal-clear lakes and hiking trails for climbers. Shikaribetsu (particularly Mt Hakuun) has been one of my favorites in the area.

I began my life in Japan as an ALT in Kamishihoro (Tokachi), Hokkaido, where I lived and worked until March 2025. During that time, I taught over 400 students across elementary school, junior high school, and high school. Challenges included the usual suspects, like language barriers, illness, solitude, procedures, and too many ups and downs to mention.

In March 2025, I moved to Sapporo, where I continue to live today. I have been working as an English teacher at two elementary schools, while also holding two part-time English teaching jobs. These roles have allowed me to broaden my teaching experience and connect with different communities and learners across the city. Around this time, I also got married, which has been one of the most meaningful and grounding experiences of my life in Japan.

At the ripe old age of 35, the “old cliché’’ thing tends to work. I’m far from an old wise owl, but there have been a few helpful habits along the way. Building healthy relationships is a game changer. It's never too late to surround yourself with good folks. Shy away from your comfort zone and embrace challenges. We didn’t evolve to be happy all the time.

Don't underestimate the difference you make in children's lives. Every word or action can cause a ripple effect. This journey was never supposed to be carefree and easy. Cherish small positive experiences.

Depression may hit you like a brick. Try to make someone smile and you might find it’s contagious. It’s humbling to examine your opinions frequently and thoroughly. Time is precious, treat it accordingly.