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

Teaching English in public schools is not everybody's cup of tea, however I have found being an ALT in Japan a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. I have had lots of laughs and fun, faced and overcame some unfamiliar challenges, and I count the last three years of working at Interac as an ALT as one of the happiest times of my life.

The Interac management staff whom I have been blessed to work with have all been super supportive and generous with their efforts to make my transition to, and settling into Japan as smooth as possible. The Interac policy of providing ongoing training throughout my employment was also of immense value.

As for Japan as a country, adventure and discovery awaits around every corner. From populous cities to beautiful nature, from exciting theme parks to historic castles, temples and shrines. Japan has it all and more.

Being here for almost 5 years has been much more meaningful than just working in another country. I've also learned about new cultures and different ways to live my life.

My life now feels more meaningful and I feel like part of the local and global community.
Being able to teach the future of Japan about my own cultural background will hopefully make a difference on them as well in the future and encourage them to study or work abroad as well. The friends and family I've met here has been life-changing and ill never forget the experiences I've had here.

I couldn't have asked for a better experience than being an ALT in Japan. As I continue to learn from the students, teachers and locals on a daily basis, I always try to keep an open-minded mentality and positive outlook on life.

I now live a much healthier lifestyle here as well and always get compliments of how better i look from people I knew in my home country. They always say that I've " found a fountain of youth". That alone lets me know that I made the right choice to live and work abroad.

My journey with Interac has been nothing short of serendipitous. What began as a detour from my original career path as a Japanese language teacher in the Philippines, due to the unforeseen circumstances of the pandemic, led me to unexpected yet fulfilling roles as a farmer, an Onsen Cleaner, and a Front Desk Clerk, before finding my place with Interac.

Transitioning into the role of an ALT wasn't my initial plan, but fate had other ideas. From the seamless document processing to the unwavering support of the Sapporo Branch Staff, Interac made the transition smooth and hassle-free. Despite joining mid-year and starting as an alternate ALT, I found myself embraced by the Interac community, where my dedication was recognized, leading to two fulfilling years as a Substitute ALT.

My experiences with Interac have been enriching and diverse. From stepping outside my home prefecture for extended periods to embracing new cultures and cuisines, every moment has been a testament to the warmth and support extended by the Interac team. Whether within Hokkaido or beyond, the commitment of Interac staff to the success and well-being of ALTs is palpable, fostering an environment where dreams can thrive.

As I continue my journey with Interac, I remain grateful for the opportunity to contribute and grow, always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. If you're considering joining Interac, rest assured that you'll be met with not just a job, but a community dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, no matter where you're from.

I grew up in rural Australia, and went to a small school of about 70 students. When I was 10 we had a Japanese teacher come to my school, and teach us Japanese for 2 weeks. At the end of it, she gave me an award for the student who learnt the most, and was the most engaged. That's something that's always stuck with me, as I now have a large interest in Japanese culture. I knew I wanted to come here one day. As I got older, I wanted to think about what to do with myself, especially after I lost a really good job just before Covid lockdowns. During the lockdowns, I looked back to what I wanted to do, and what I enjoyed doing. One thing I did during my bachelor degree was assist foreigners with their assignments and homework. I would correct their English on projects, or be their presenter or voice actor for them. I thought, "Hey, teaching would be fun" so I studied to get a TESOL certificate. Shortly after being awarded my certificate, I learned about teaching programs in Japan and knew exactly what I wanted to do.

I chose Interac because of recommendations from job providers, friends, and internet personalities. They have been very helpful with handling all the difficulties one may experience moving overseas. They also regularly check in to see how I'm doing, and provide support when necessary.

I didn't know what to expect when I found out I was coming to Okuma in Fukushima, knowing what happened so many years ago, but I was surprised, and very excited to join the community here. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive, and they have taught me so much about Okuma, Japan, and Japanese culture. They also include me in festivals and activities, and greet me whenever they see me. As the town was rebuilding after the incident many years ago, it definitely has been a unique experience.

The community here is still small, so the number of students I teach is also small, but as more people move back to the area, more students come too. I really enjoy working where I do as I get to be creative, and the children and staff are great to work with. Fortunately, I didn't have many problems communicating as most of the other staff could speak or understand English to a degree. I currently teach children from Nursery, up to Junior High school, I also teach Eikaiwa (English conversation) classes for Junior High. The school building officially opened in August last year, before that we were studying in the town hall of Okuma. I assisted with the construction by translating the Japanese names of the classrooms and facilities, which have been put on the new signs around the building.

If I was to offer advice to new or aspiring ALTs, I would suggest making friends with other ALTs in your area, and say yes to every opportunity you are given, within reason. The staff, students and members of the community really appreciate when their ALT gives off the feeling that they want to be there and be involved when they can. I've done many things for the school, and community such as: gardening, farm-work, performed live music, acted in plays, and have taught students who wish to study abroad. Take the opportunity to work in Japan as it is very rewarding, and is a very fun experience.

To begin, I've been teaching in Japan for a year now. It's incredibly satisfying to see learners faces light up as they learn something in English. I always do my best in everything I do. I currently teach at Hirono Town, Fukushima. I now oversee Junior High School, Elementary, Kindergarten, and the Community Center. Yes, I teach English in a community center with students of various ages. I consider it unique because I tried different strategies and assessed students' learning styles. It is rewarding to watch how they improved. In addition, I spent about 5 months teaching at JFA Academy. Teaching English to aspiring soccer players was very exceptional. They are full of energy, competitive, eager to learn, and enjoyable to be around. I don't know much about soccer, but they did teach me part of it. I did my best to provide lessons that were closely related to soccer because that is what they were interested in. In addition, I write articles for Hirono Town magazine on a monthly basis. I wrote about my experiences in Japan and the Philippines, as well as my cultural background. It was a fantastic school year. I am excited to learn and explore a variety of things.

For the future participants, learn more and enjoy the journey. Keep going!

Working and living in Japan is a wonderful and challenging experience.
I have lived in Japan for 11 years. I started by studying abroad and then a few years later started teaching as an ALT. I have taught English through two different programs and have lived in Okinawa, Honshu and Hokkaido. It has given me a wide view of how similar and in some ways, different Japan is. Yet, the heart of Japan is unique. I have found many people to be warm hearted and very hard working. The Japanese take work and play very seriously. Sometimes to the point of exhaustion. It can be surprising and challenging to adapt to this routine when people first arrive.
Working and living in Japan gives you a much deeper chance to get to know the land and people better than just traveling. In my experience, the core Japanese education is very good and students enjoy learning. Living in an area gives you many chances to explore the local area and return again to favorite places.
I have also enjoyed the chance to become part of the community taking part in local festivals and groups. Making a community has been a key to my well being. I have found people with the same passion for the outdoors, photography and sports. I am also married to a national and have two kids. We have chosen to make Japan our home.

Nobody wants to be somewhere where they are invisible. While my location is remote and away from the nightlife movement, the peace and value I feel here is incomparable. I have met many friends outside of work who truly care for my wellbeing due to my interest in fitness. I could not ask for more. On my work scene, my opinion is highly valued and it makes me comfortable to engage other colleagues. I am a people person by heart, but the beauty of my work environment encourages even more conversation.

“As many languages ​​you know, as many times you are a human being ." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Since childhood, I have been fascinated by three things: languages, traveling and teaching. When I came to Japan, I was blessed to fulfill all my dreams. Japan is a very diverse country, there are mountains and the oceans, and ….there is also an opportunity to work in a school as an AET. To tell the truth, this is not one of the easiest jobs, and being completely honest it’s not that much highly paid job either but thanks to it, I can really delve into Japanese culture and even understand such a difficult Japanese language. To answer the question what I like most about my job? Well…. I would answer - students' energy, ability to learn while working, school lunches, socializing with other AETs. What is the hardest part of my job? Perhaps, keeping students’ attention and curiosity on the lessons all the time. You must be extremely creative. Additionally it might be uneasy to find a common language with all Japanese colleagues, because our mentalities are polar opposite and our random behavior may be perceived as extraordinarily for Japanese. Speaking about the country itself, Japan is the safest place I’ve ever visited. And of course I can’t but mention about Japanese food: sushi, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, ramen, etc .
The disadvantages of living in Japan are primarily earthquakes and garbage sorting. But at the moment, Japan has become my home.
Sometimes while speaking to my Japanese neighbors or coworkers I even consider myself as half Japanese because you remember: “As many languages ​​you know, as many times you are a human being ." :-)