What you make of it.

I taught in Nagoya, Japan. Being a teacher in America, I was already aware of the joys and struggles of teaching; there would be no shock from the work and pay (or lack thereof). My school was incredibly lacking in proper teaching materials, training, and ethics when it came to aiding students with different needs. It was about money and that's it. The other teachers, however, were kind and knew of the school's faults. I was very lucky to be with teachers who understood what the school was lacking. I built great relationships with the other teachers and can't wait to see them again when I return to Nagoya. My advice to those who go to teach in Japan: be weary of your leaders. Do what you can to make your experience and students happy, but understand that there's only so much you can do. Make connections with those around you and do what you can to appreciate the country and people rather than fixate on the workplace.

Regarding this program, while I wish the school they picked for me was a more qualified one, I appreciated the support and options they gave me. I would definitely return to this program with the current knowledge I hold and ability to differentiate a good school from one that panders to families for money rather than focus on student growth & health.