Interac offers a well managed ALT experience

Choosing to move to Japan and radically change my career path to being an assistant teacher in school was a big decision.

Interac helped insure that my first steps into my new town were made as easy and as comfortable as possible. I have been setup with a car and a small apartment. I was shown the nearest supermarket and recommended what to buy. A bank account was setup for me and all necessary documents were arranged with city hall. I was also introduced to my schools days later.

The staff at the schools have always been friendly, helping me out if I’ve needed.

I’ve really grown to enjoy the job. It has allowed me to use my creativity to bring fun and engaging lessons to kids. This has taught me so much and has also added great inspiration for future endeavours. Seeing the kids faces light up when you fire up the Pokemon quiz you’ve been making perfect for the last couple of weeks is a great feeling. Watching kids English abilities grow with your assistance is incredibly fulfilling.

I have managed to make many new friends out here too, both within the company and outside of. There are opportunities to volunteer your time outside of work in English speaking groups and I would heartily recommend doing so. It will allow you to meet Japanese people and take part in events which will make you feel more a part of the community. My community also provides free Japanese lessons every week.

Japan itself is beautiful especially in the countryside. There is lots to see, photograph and absorb. I have found hardly a dull day living in Japan.

As a caution one thing that is difficult about working for a dispatch company and is probably well known is the pay. This shows no sign of improving so if you do want to take this opportunity I really advise planning ahead and making sure you have the funds behind you. Even with the strictest budget I have found it quite difficult to gather worthwhile savings. The cost of things is always rising whereas your wage will stay the same. It’s already not a competitive salary and sadly it doesn’t show any signs of improving. There is opportunities within the company with various career paths towards management if that’s what you are interested in. I think the key to not get too affected by this is to budget and adjust your mindset in regards to your position and so therefore your expectations of the job. I have always seen this job as a first step and for others with this mindset I can recommend it. If you also are looking for some valuable life experience within a gap year then I also heartily recommend this opportunity.