Six Months of Sunrise and Smiles: A Nigerian ALT's Journey in Japan

Moving to Japan truly felt like a dream come true. I arrived with high hopes: to grow professionally as a teacher and personally as an individual. I was heading to a country famous for its rich culture, top-notch technology, strong safety, perfect punctuality, and deep sense of community.

When I stood in Haneda Airport in March, I felt closer than ever to achieving my goals. The initial move was smooth, thanks to Interac. They helped me settle in nicely—first in a hotel, and then into my cute apartment. Meeting my Japanese and Jamaican neighbors right away was a lovely welcome, making me feel like I was part of a new community.

My main mission is simple: to help students truly develop their English communication skills. I can tell you honestly that teaching English as a foreign language is definitely not a walk in the park. It requires energy, patience, and lots of creativity.

However, my placement has been an amazing path for professional growth. Interac gave me loads of support, from excellent training materials to helpful feedback from experienced colleagues. This support has been key to improving my methods and making sure I run an engaging English classroom.

I love living here, mainly because of the beauty, peace and quiet. It’s comforting to live in a place known for being so safe and orderly. This peaceful environment gives me the amazing opportunity to share my Nigerian culture with my students. At the same time, I get to learn about their Japanese culture as we study English together. This constant exchange is truly something that keeps me going every day.

I’m a lifelong learner, and even after six successful months, I know I still have so much more to explore and learn in Japan. The journey has just begun, and I look forward to embracing every new lesson this incredible country offers. I have Interac to thank for this amazing opportunity.