I plan on studying the language before applying for JET then working outside of the cities in the more emptier rural areas. From what i've heard,a LOT of people havent come across foreigners before outside the cities so being able to talk to those people seems like it'd be quite interesting. Hopefully somewhere with a nice train station nearby so I can hitch a ride somewhere more populated on days I'm more free. I think Eikawas are best for that? Look forward to it. Thanks for the video,its super informative and I appreciate it greatly.
Nice content, there is definitely so many factors when you have a job like this haha. I work on JET in Mie prefecture and its really interesting to hear peoples views from all over Japan, good video though for many people looking to join or not!
Helped loads! Thank you. Got alternate this year, and waiting to hear if I made the shortlist. Gives me things to both look forward to (hopefully) and things to be aware of if I do get to go, and how to prepare. Great stuff!
Thank you for this video!! So informative, and you give a very balanced view. I also love your enthusiasm :) Surprised they don't give medical leave for bad colds, but everything else about JET seems fantastic. Quick note - I feel like the subsidized rent is fair that way - adding on to what you already said, people living in the city all pay that higher amount and people in the countryside all pay the lesser amount. You are paid for your teaching after all (not where it is), and I think if the rent was subsidized more in the city, people living in the countryside would find that unfair and perhaps justly so :P Also, JET salaries are way higher than local English teachers so I already find it "unfair" in benefit to the foreigner.
This video really helps put things into perspective for me... im still preparing my documents for submission in November... im glad to have an insight into the programme experience. Ps... im from the Caribbean.... looking forward to it.
Thank you for the comprehensive guide on how to properly Japan. I'm saving all your videos on my play list. If you have copies saved, would you object to sending them to me so I can store them for future reference? Thanks for your time -Blazewing
+Blazewing Firebird I do have the original files, but it might be easier if you use a "Download video from RUclips" program such as "Clipgrab" :) I have to organize all my files on my computer still!! eep! haha
I just got shortlisted, and I'm still waiting to find out my placement. I asked for the Kyoto area as my top preference, so I hope I get it or at least somewhere close to it. Your videos have been amazingly helpful to me, so if I do get placed near Kyoto, and you're still in Japan, it would be amazing if we could meet. I'll be able to thank you for all your help in person. (*cough* and possibly bombard you with questions *cough*) :D
Hi! I have a question. I am planning on applying to the Jet Program this year and wanted to know if a TEFL Certification would be necessary. The reason I ask is because I do not have an education degree, but an accounting one and I do not have any teaching experience as well. I was planning on getting the certification to set myself apart from other applicants. I hope you can answer my question. Thanks!
As someone who's looking into the JET programme after college because they want to teach, what's it like for a new person? I have little teaching experience in the classroom - I've taught at clubs and the like before for school, but nothing with a lesson plan. What work are people most often doing?
Hello! I'm very sorry for my super late response to your really good question!! So what's wonderful about the JET programme is that TONS of ALTs who get accepted don't have any teaching experience. It's a great start, and they really make sure you're comfortable before going into a classroom. I was teaching classes on my own with the teacher usually marking papers at their desk from time to time and the kids were okay. There are some classes where the kids are nuts and there's nothing you can do about it. Don't stress those classes. The kids are bad because the teacher lets them be bad. It's not your fault. Anyways, I hope this helps! If you have any more questions feel free to ask! Thank you!!
unlike Canada where you can just have experiences to be qualified for a job, Japan prefers people with degrees even if you have no experience.. just like for foreigners who want to become a Japanese citizen after a year... if you have a PhD, have published scientific articles, earn more than 10 millions yen and, on top of that, be less than 29 years old, you can become a Japanese citizen after 1 year living in Japan..
Hey, thanks for making these super helpful videos. Im thinking of applying in September but am trying to research as much as i can before hand. I do worry that my knowledge of English language is not great even though its my only language. I do not know grammar structure lingo, and probably even make minor mistakes myself still with sentence length etc. I have a feeling all this might be important for teaching English. I also have no japanese. So good to hear its not super important (hoping to start learning soon)
Hello and thank you very much for your message!!! First of all, I HAD THE SAME DOUBTS!!! I always did so bad in English class going through school. BUT. BUT. BUUUUT. If you're teaching elementary or junior high (or even high school), the English is very basic and you'll know right away if something isn't right. For example: "Are you from Kyoto?" "Yes I do!". Then you can tell your student to try again, say they did a good job but there needs to be a small change, "Yes I am!" Fixed! If you have a passion for learning about Japanese culture and working with youth then this is totally for you!! I don't know much Japanese either, and that's why I LOVE the JET Programme. They do pretty much all the paper work for you!! It's literally a breeze. :) I still don't know much Japanese, but since you're in a classroom every day you'll learn more and more Japanese throughout the year. I seriously wish you the best of luck no matter where you plan to go. But keep in mind, the JET Programme is absolutely amazing!!
+Jessica Roh great thanks for letting me know, and the great reply. I hope to go pretty much anywhere in Japan. I need to study japanese and learn the language. Feels like it would be a good way to live and work in Japan. I looked into full time study Japanese courses which seem expensive. JET looks like a good way to really live the country. Im doing all this with going to Tokyo in mind, after teaching JET, as I have an art project in mind in which I would walk around Tokyo for one year taking photos of signs, then come back to England and make a giant hand carved map. It all sounds rather long to most people, but jet so far sounds like a good way to get to grips with japanese people and culture/language. Very glad to hear the English language is not so difficult. Much appreciated. Cheers
Hi sis, Im currently studying engineering and i wish to apply for JET and learn more about japan :) ur vdo is great...i would like to know is there any recommendation required from Japanese people to get JET or not? and which city is better to get a job for jet ?Thanks :)
I just uploaded a video about my time on the JET programme 30 years ago, and your video popped up in my recommended. I agree with everything you said. I, too, was in Kyoto Prefecture and when I was on the programme, Kyoto was considered to be one of the worst prefectures to be in, in terms of bureaucracy. I was wondering if it was still the same when you were on it.
Hi Jessica, so I’m planning to come japan from Dubai as my husband is working is japan. And my language is zero. I was interested about the JET programme and done some research and seen some videos. I came to know that bachelors degree is enough to apply as a teacher. I ended up to comment in your video coz it was awesome. So what will be the process to apply??
Is it okay to say in the personal statement that my long term goal is to be a language teacher in Japan? Or would this be viewed negatively for the JET program? I want to be honest, but not at the expense of ruining my application. XD Thanks
Hello, This is my first time watching your video but I will watch more videos on your channel in the future. My wife is applying for the JET program. I have heard the good and the bad about the JET program. My question is after doing much research I have found that it might be better to skip the JET program and become an ALT directly through the school themselves. From my understanding, the benefit outweighs the pros of the JET program. So let me ask what do you think is the pros of joining the JET program over finding your own position and negotiating your own contract?
Excellent observation and question! I've worked with a few ALTs who worked directly with the school boards. I haven't really seen any difference between them and us JET ALTs, though. I feel like ALTs who are in a school board without having gone through the JET programme know Japanese and are way more able to do more for the school itself. But I'm not super knowledge about it. There may be more benefits, I'm just not sure. Sorry!
I have taught Karate for many years. I know a way that may help. First break into stretching exercises: Learning basic words first. Blocks and stances: Introduction of students addressing he/she hobbies in front in English. Kicks and Punches: Start with a simple book. Repeat this for next class. First thing when coming to class in Japan. Martial Art Tournament mode: You are in front of judges (students) bow open introduction of yourself. Then begin.
Hi! I don't know if I'm too late but when you said that most people didn't know where they were going to live how did you feel? Do the secure a place for you for do you show up and have to look for a place yourself
Keep in mind that usually you are not the first alt to go to a particular school, so you will inherrit a lot of the former ALTs stuff. Apartment, bike, stuff like that. They don't just drop you in the middle of the countryside and say have fun.
Hey, I see this is a bit old but that means you probably have a lot more information about the program and your experience now. Any chance you wouldn't mind chatting with me about some things? I've been teaching in Madrid for 7 years and am ready for a change of pace, so am exploring all the programs around the world that may interest me!
Stephen Dallas Drawing Show my husband and I are looking into moving to Japan as a family with our toddler. I'm sure it's doable but it might be difficult to find two spots in schools close to each other.
Evan Font My friend had brought her husband and two kids to Japan when she was on JET. So the program was accommodating for that. I think her husband did find a job after arriving, but she was the primary earner. I've heard of other families who lived on one income. How easy that is depends on whether your housing is subsidized. It's my understanding that most JET placements these days are in rural locations and are more likely to be subsidized. But, in short, it has been done. Regarding her kids, neither was a baby, but one was quite young. I think near 2 or 3 years old. Whatever the age of your kid(s), you do need to consider the logistics of raising them in a foreign country. Anyway, hope that helps.
Hi, thanks for your video. I have been accepted into the program, I am married with 2 children. My wife is on the waiting list, therefore we are a bit nervous that if we don't have 2 incomes it will be very difficult to support ourselves. In your experience, do you consider that 1 income is non sufficient?
Hi Jess! Firstly I just want to say thank you ever so much for taking the time to make this video for us. It was very inofrmative and very well put together. I do have a few questions I'd like you to answer for me if thats okay? The main one is when I am living in Japan on the Jet Programme is it legal to send money home? I will be paying a percentage of a mortgage off every month for a house here in the UK while I am in Japan.
Thank you for the rapid response! I very much appreciate it. I have heard of Ex-Jets staying on in Japan after the end of the programme. Can you quickly outline how it is possible? Do they simply stay as an ALT but go through a private corporation/company? I would imagine 5 years doing JET can give a person some much needed experience in terms of Japanese writing and language so I guess that in itself would open more doors of opportunity? I hope everything is going well for you in Canada :) You seem like a really nice person, would have loved to have worked alongside you in Japan :D
You're complaining about rent subsidy - because - let's face it - you're in a urban city, with so much things to do... no two days will be the same for you - unlike people who live in the middle of no where - where there is NOTHING to do apart watch the rice paddocks to grow
I actually didn't know about Interac until after I came to Japan. Even still, I believe that JET helps you in so many avenues. You're never left alone and there's always someone to help you out. The JET programme is super helpful. :)
Hi, so I know you made this video back in April and you stated that you don't know anything about where you're placed until you're there, but I'm curious does that also apply to what grade level you'll be teaching? I would assume so, but asking just in case. :P And are the majority of new ALT's placed to teach a specific grade level or are there a different range whether it's older kids or younger? (I'd assume it might end up being the same process as what you stated in the video where one requests to live in a certain area and ended up in a completely different city??) Also, thank you for making this video. I've seen quite a few videos on here about their experience with the JET program, but it was always about the interviews and how they've enjoyed it; they never really listed the bad or discussed things that you listed. :)
Can I not be apart of the Jet program with just a high school diploma? If not, what kind of education would I need to have before applying for the Jet program?
A. Ward Hello! That is a great question! Sadly the JET Programme will only recognize people with a bachelor degree. It can be in anything, though! That's the common requirement for working in a school in Japan. I got in with a bachelor of Art!! :D
Thank you! Also, would you consider the Jet program to be a temporary or long term job? I noticed on their website that Jet employees don't work for this program a long period of time.
A. Ward I would say the JET Programme is temporary as it only allows you to be apart of it for 5 years. After those five years you could potentially stay in Japan and work somewhere else, but you'd need to speak a moderate amount of Japanese. I know lots of people who did their five years and stayed to work in different kinds of jobs. You can also stay for up to one year, which is what I did. Because I had some obligations back in Canada I had to return after so soon. Two or three years is the typical range of time people stay to teach. :)
Have you experienced working a job in Canada before the Jet Programme? Your “bad” comments about the Programme are ordinarily experienced in any job setting. You are in a real workplace situation as an ALT staff so your expectation of maximizing benefits from Jet Programme should consider that you are supposed to work, you are not on cacation.
So true about the overlap with the predecessor. Luckily, I was able to meet mine the day before she left, but I still wish she was around a couple more days!
Thank you for your comment! I would highly recommend bringing money with you. I brought $4000 for my dependant and myself. It lasted us about a month since we had to buy tons of furniture for ourselves and we wanted to do all the cool fun things the first month we arrived. Your first pay check definitely covers a decent amount of costs. The more you bring with you, the more money you'll have to spend.
Hi Jess! Great video! :D I found out i got the job with JET last week. Now I'm twiddling my thumbs, wondering where my placement will be, what age range ill be teaching, what stuff i can do to prepare before i fly out in july.. When you first arrived, did you have someone with you to take you to your town/city? To show you your apartment/how to pay the bills/get set up/ get a mobile phone/ show you how to get to school etc? Or are you just sent on a train to your placement destination and youre expected to figure it out for yourself?
At least JETs have the option of subsidized rent. I am assuming that even their health insurance and pension is paid. People from countries other than the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the UK have an extremely difficult time trying to make it as an ALT because these countries will never get JET opportunities, no matter their English ability. Dispatch companies are far worse than JET. You do all the work of JETs, and Then some, but are paid less, have nothing covered, barely get travel compensated fully, and have no rent subsidy.
Hi, are you still out in Japan ?? I hope to come out in summer 2019. Thanks for the balanced video :) im English so I also dont understand paying for the doctor etc haha, hope I meat someone as cute as you there when I go.
It's no penis party lets get that straight XD It's JET Programme: Japanese English Teaching Programme. People go into the Japanese school systems and assist non-English speaking teachers, teach English. I'm heading out there this summer. Lived there for six months a couple years ago. Ditching the good ole US for the next century or so...
+Danz Castellòn business!! So many corporations are tied with English speaking companies and English has become the international language of business. The second most learned language in Japan is Spanish because of similar reasons. Plus they have many workers who speak Spanish primarily and no Japanese at all
they should get spanish as well becuase either way Spanish is a just as important to enlglish when to all that type of stuff and the globe it self i think, tbh ill fall in love real quickly if a japanese woman speakas my language *_____*... me gusta
+Danz Castellòn then go study at an international studies college in Japan for a month. At the school I attended many beautiful Japanese girls spoke Spanish and want to visit Spanish speaking countries. :)
for the living in the middle of no where part (Great video by the way, thanks for the info ^-^) I don't mind living in the country side, I prefer the beauty of the country side. it may be just me, but I'd rather view the mountains and small towns, and villages, rather than big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto. So the middle of no where living is a plus for me lol ^-^
Hi. Im applying for 2017 and this is really good info to know. Though i'm curious as to if the program will be hard on introverts (which i am). Like, is it easy to hang out with the other ALTs? or is it completely up to you to go out and meet ppl? any info on that kind of social aspect? thanks in advance
Hello! First off, thank you for the video, it was much more informative and fun than any other I have found in my research! I had a quick question I've been wanting to ask someone who had actually been in the program, and that is age-gap issue. I got a late start in life and did graduate with my bachelor's until this year (I am now 28). Was there a varied age of program attendees, or would I feel out of place as "the old guy," if I were to follow through with joining the program? I know that might sound silly, but it's a legitimate concern for me! :]
Hi Jess, thank you so much for this video. Really helpful. I'm looking to get into this program upon completion of my degree. Have you heard about ALT's with families? Wondering if that would be a factor when they select applicants. Thanks
Good question!! Japanese is SUUUUPER beneficial!! You don't have to know Japanese but it DEFINITELY helps. You'll be able to read more signs and speak to locals and learn more about the culture. You'll also know when you're kids aren't on task and if the teachers have lots of drama between them. Hahaha. I didn't know Japanese and I did just fine. :)
The only thing I disagree with you on with the bad is the lesson plans. You're suppose to have a lesson planned out before you leave for JET. You're a teacher, your job is to teach! Why wouldn't you have a lesson planned out? That is more of people being ill prepared then JET being unfair .
![YoungBoy Never Broke Again - Sneaking [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1ILUps2zDFU/mqdefault.jpg)
I was a JET in 1995 - 97 and ...have friends all over the world. We are
still in touch after so long.... For all they apply: Go for it and...
grow!
creepy fucking doll yo
Thank you so much for making this video. I'm a new JET and I'm about to head to Tokyo orientation in a few weeks. Lots of helpful information! :)
How’d it go?
You get period leaves, but not bad-cold leave? Interesting...
I plan on studying the language before applying for JET then working outside of the cities in the more emptier rural areas.
From what i've heard,a LOT of people havent come across foreigners before outside the cities so being able to talk to those people seems like it'd be quite interesting.
Hopefully somewhere with a nice train station nearby so I can hitch a ride somewhere more populated on days I'm more free.
I think Eikawas are best for that?
Look forward to it.
Thanks for the video,its super informative and I appreciate it greatly.
I'm Doing ALT work but not with JET, i start tomorrow >.
That's fantastic!! Congrats!! You'll be totally fine!! I believe in you!! I will watch for your videos!! :D
+Jessica Roh Thanks! I really appreciate it 😀. keep up the good work Jessica!
What an informative video! Thank you so much for sharing your experience, may you stay safe and happy!
Nice content, there is definitely so many factors when you have a job like this haha. I work on JET in Mie prefecture and its really interesting to hear peoples views from all over Japan, good video though for many people looking to join or not!
This information is really helpful!! Thank you. :)
I'm half japanese and I plan on teaching in japan! I've heard many bad things but I'm glad to see your side!!!
Helped loads! Thank you. Got alternate this year, and waiting to hear if I made the shortlist. Gives me things to both look forward to (hopefully) and things to be aware of if I do get to go, and how to prepare. Great stuff!
I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the video! Thank you for your comment!!!
I wish you the best of luck for getting a good placement!! :D
Jessica Roh Thank you, and keep up the great work, these videos are wonderful!
Hey Jess, thank you so much for making this video! it's super helpful
Thank you for this video!! So informative, and you give a very balanced view. I also love your enthusiasm :) Surprised they don't give medical leave for bad colds, but everything else about JET seems fantastic.
Quick note - I feel like the subsidized rent is fair that way - adding on to what you already said, people living in the city all pay that higher amount and people in the countryside all pay the lesser amount. You are paid for your teaching after all (not where it is), and I think if the rent was subsidized more in the city, people living in the countryside would find that unfair and perhaps justly so :P Also, JET salaries are way higher than local English teachers so I already find it "unfair" in benefit to the foreigner.
This video really helps put things into perspective for me... im still preparing my documents for submission in November... im glad to have an insight into the programme experience. Ps... im from the Caribbean.... looking forward to it.
This is so helpful thank you so much 💙
But the DOLL is seriously scary 🤣🤣 I kept looking and think it might move anytime 🤣
Great video. Thanks so much for sharing!
Actual video starts at 1:00
Great video, thanks for posting!! :D
Is it difficult to get into JET if you are not a native speaker but having a degree and proficiency over the language ?
how do you figure out what your lessons are going to be on?
Thank you for the comprehensive guide on how to properly Japan. I'm saving all your videos on my play list. If you have copies saved, would you object to sending them to me so I can store them for future reference?
Thanks for your time
-Blazewing
+Blazewing Firebird I do have the original files, but it might be easier if you use a "Download video from RUclips" program such as "Clipgrab" :) I have to organize all my files on my computer still!! eep! haha
I just wanted to give you the opportunity to ok that before I actually went ahead and did it.
Thank you
Hi 😊 I am planning to apply for JET next year. Would like to ask a question. Can you renew your contract? Thank u.
I just got shortlisted, and I'm still waiting to find out my placement. I asked for the Kyoto area as my top preference, so I hope I get it or at least somewhere close to it. Your videos have been amazingly helpful to me, so if I do get placed near Kyoto, and you're still in Japan, it would be amazing if we could meet. I'll be able to thank you for all your help in person. (*cough* and possibly bombard you with questions *cough*) :D
+AnimeFreakKatie Oh thank you so much for your comment!! And yes please talk with me anytime!! You can ask me anything :) I hope you get Kyoto!!!
How was it?
The "people in the farmland" have to buy a car... so I guess its fair, that the BOE support the housing expenses...
exactly my first thought... as well as the fact that if you want to go to a big city to do something, you have to either drive or pay for a bus/train
Hi! I have a question. I am planning on applying to the Jet Program this year and wanted to know if a TEFL Certification would be necessary. The reason I ask is because I do not have an education degree, but an accounting one and I do not have any teaching experience as well. I was planning on getting the certification to set myself apart from other applicants. I hope you can answer my question. Thanks!
As someone who's looking into the JET programme after college because they want to teach, what's it like for a new person?
I have little teaching experience in the classroom - I've taught at clubs and the like before for school, but nothing with a lesson plan. What work are people most often doing?
Hello! I'm very sorry for my super late response to your really good question!! So what's wonderful about the JET programme is that TONS of ALTs who get accepted don't have any teaching experience. It's a great start, and they really make sure you're comfortable before going into a classroom. I was teaching classes on my own with the teacher usually marking papers at their desk from time to time and the kids were okay. There are some classes where the kids are nuts and there's nothing you can do about it. Don't stress those classes. The kids are bad because the teacher lets them be bad. It's not your fault. Anyways, I hope this helps! If you have any more questions feel free to ask! Thank you!!
Super helpful! Thank you. You're awesome.
unlike Canada where you can just have experiences to be qualified for a job, Japan prefers people with degrees even if you have no experience.. just like for foreigners who want to become a Japanese citizen after a year... if you have a PhD, have published scientific articles, earn more than 10 millions yen and, on top of that, be less than 29 years old, you can become a Japanese citizen after 1 year living in Japan..
In the EPIK program they wrote us letters.
Hey, thanks for making these super helpful videos. Im thinking of applying in September but am trying to research as much as i can before hand. I do worry that my knowledge of English language is not great even though its my only language. I do not know grammar structure lingo, and probably even make minor mistakes myself still with sentence length etc. I have a feeling all this might be important for teaching English. I also have no japanese. So good to hear its not super important (hoping to start learning soon)
Hello and thank you very much for your message!!! First of all, I HAD THE SAME DOUBTS!!! I always did so bad in English class going through school. BUT. BUT. BUUUUT. If you're teaching elementary or junior high (or even high school), the English is very basic and you'll know right away if something isn't right. For example: "Are you from Kyoto?" "Yes I do!". Then you can tell your student to try again, say they did a good job but there needs to be a small change, "Yes I am!" Fixed! If you have a passion for learning about Japanese culture and working with youth then this is totally for you!! I don't know much Japanese either, and that's why I LOVE the JET Programme. They do pretty much all the paper work for you!! It's literally a breeze. :) I still don't know much Japanese, but since you're in a classroom every day you'll learn more and more Japanese throughout the year. I seriously wish you the best of luck no matter where you plan to go. But keep in mind, the JET Programme is absolutely amazing!!
+Jessica Roh great thanks for letting me know, and the great reply. I hope to go pretty much anywhere in Japan. I need to study japanese and learn the language. Feels like it would be a good way to live and work in Japan. I looked into full time study Japanese courses which seem expensive. JET looks like a good way to really live the country. Im doing all this with going to Tokyo in mind, after teaching JET, as I have an art project in mind in which I would walk around Tokyo for one year taking photos of signs, then come back to England and make a giant hand carved map. It all sounds rather long to most people, but jet so far sounds like a good way to get to grips with japanese people and culture/language. Very glad to hear the English language is not so difficult. Much appreciated. Cheers
Hi sis, Im currently studying engineering and i wish to apply for JET and learn more about japan :) ur vdo is great...i would like to know is there any recommendation required from Japanese people to get JET or not? and which city is better to get a job for jet ?Thanks :)
did they even pay for your flight and visa ?
Hi, I know this video is kinda old, but I have a question about the degree part. What kind of degree do you need exactly? Just a Bachelors in English?
Any Bachelors degree from University.
thank you very much
Any Bachelors degree from an accredited college.
I just uploaded a video about my time on the JET programme 30 years ago, and your video popped up in my recommended. I agree with everything you said. I, too, was in Kyoto Prefecture and when I was on the programme, Kyoto was considered to be one of the worst prefectures to be in, in terms of bureaucracy. I was wondering if it was still the same when you were on it.
Hi Jessica, so I’m planning to come japan from Dubai as my husband is working is japan. And my language is zero. I was interested about the JET programme and done some research and seen some videos. I came to know that bachelors degree is enough to apply as a teacher. I ended up to comment in your video coz it was awesome. So what will be the process to apply??
Is it okay to say in the personal statement that my long term goal is to be a language teacher in Japan? Or would this be viewed negatively for the JET program? I want to be honest, but not at the expense of ruining my application. XD Thanks
If you are from America you MUST have a bachelor degree for the visa. Unless you get a sketchy company like peppy kids club to go around it
She hit the nail on the head, "spoil Canadian kid who doesn't understand the concept of paying for a service"
Hello, This is my first time watching your video but I will watch more videos on your channel in the future. My wife is applying for the JET program. I have heard the good and the bad about the JET program. My question is after doing much research I have found that it might be better to skip the JET program and become an ALT directly through the school themselves. From my understanding, the benefit outweighs the pros of the JET program. So let me ask what do you think is the pros of joining the JET program over finding your own position and negotiating your own contract?
Excellent observation and question! I've worked with a few ALTs who worked directly with the school boards. I haven't really seen any difference between them and us JET ALTs, though. I feel like ALTs who are in a school board without having gone through the JET programme know Japanese and are way more able to do more for the school itself. But I'm not super knowledge about it. There may be more benefits, I'm just not sure. Sorry!
I have taught Karate for many years. I know a way that may help. First break into stretching exercises: Learning basic words first. Blocks and stances: Introduction of students addressing he/she hobbies in front in English. Kicks and Punches: Start with a simple book. Repeat this for next class. First thing when coming to class in Japan. Martial Art Tournament mode: You are in front of judges (students) bow open introduction of yourself. Then begin.
I don't mean imposing but I was Japan for a Karate seminar mainly for black belts. I was introduce to a better way of teaching.
Hi! I don't know if I'm too late but when you said that most people didn't know where they were going to live how did you feel? Do the secure a place for you for do you show up and have to look for a place yourself
Keep in mind that usually you are not the first alt to go to a particular school, so you will inherrit a lot of the former ALTs stuff. Apartment, bike, stuff like that. They don't just drop you in the middle of the countryside and say have fun.
savian jones I felt at ease since I knew no matter where I lived, I would be happy. :)
Hey, I see this is a bit old but that means you probably have a lot more information about the program and your experience now. Any chance you wouldn't mind chatting with me about some things? I've been teaching in Madrid for 7 years and am ready for a change of pace, so am exploring all the programs around the world that may interest me!
This is really great! Do you know any married couples placed together in JET? My wife and I are interested.
Stephen Dallas Drawing Show my husband and I are looking into moving to Japan as a family with our toddler. I'm sure it's doable but it might be difficult to find two spots in schools close to each other.
I think they prioritize placing couples together but there's no guarantees. I dunno for certain though
Do you think it's possible to teach in Japan with a wife and baby? We really want to go but she wouldn't be teaching.
Evan Font My friend had brought her husband and two kids to Japan when she was on JET. So the program was accommodating for that. I think her husband did find a job after arriving, but she was the primary earner. I've heard of other families who lived on one income. How easy that is depends on whether your housing is subsidized. It's my understanding that most JET placements these days are in rural locations and are more likely to be subsidized. But, in short, it has been done.
Regarding her kids, neither was a baby, but one was quite young. I think near 2 or 3 years old. Whatever the age of your kid(s), you do need to consider the logistics of raising them in a foreign country. Anyway, hope that helps.
Hi, thanks for your video. I have been accepted into the program, I am married with 2 children. My wife is on the waiting list, therefore we are a bit nervous that if we don't have 2 incomes it will be very difficult to support ourselves. In your experience, do you consider that 1 income is non sufficient?
Hi Jess! Firstly I just want to say thank you ever so much for taking the time to make this video for us. It was very inofrmative and very well put together. I do have a few questions I'd like you to answer for me if thats okay? The main one is when I am living in Japan on the Jet Programme is it legal to send money home? I will be paying a percentage of a mortgage off every month for a house here in the UK while I am in Japan.
Great question! Yes it is legal. :) lots of JETs send money back to their home to pay off bills and things. :) It's no problem at all.
Thank you for the rapid response! I very much appreciate it. I have heard of Ex-Jets staying on in Japan after the end of the programme. Can you quickly outline how it is possible? Do they simply stay as an ALT but go through a private corporation/company? I would imagine 5 years doing JET can give a person some much needed experience in terms of Japanese writing and language so I guess that in itself would open more doors of opportunity? I hope everything is going well for you in Canada :) You seem like a really nice person, would have loved to have worked alongside you in Japan :D
You're complaining about rent subsidy - because - let's face it - you're in a urban city, with so much things to do... no two days will be the same for you - unlike people who live in the middle of no where - where there is NOTHING to do apart watch the rice paddocks to grow
Why did you pick Jet over others like Interac etc.?
I actually didn't know about Interac until after I came to Japan. Even still, I believe that JET helps you in so many avenues. You're never left alone and there's always someone to help you out. The JET programme is super helpful. :)
Yo, couldnt finish your vid, the doll was creeping me out lol
Hi, so I know you made this video back in April and you stated that you don't know anything about where you're placed until you're there, but I'm curious does that also apply to what grade level you'll be teaching? I would assume so, but asking just in case. :P And are the majority of new ALT's placed to teach a specific grade level or are there a different range whether it's older kids or younger? (I'd assume it might end up being the same process as what you stated in the video where one requests to live in a certain area and ended up in a completely different city??)
Also, thank you for making this video. I've seen quite a few videos on here about their experience with the JET program, but it was always about the interviews and how they've enjoyed it; they never really listed the bad or discussed things that you listed. :)
Can I not be apart of the Jet program with just a high school diploma? If not, what kind of education would I need to have before applying for the Jet program?
A. Ward Hello! That is a great question! Sadly the JET Programme will only recognize people with a bachelor degree. It can be in anything, though! That's the common requirement for working in a school in Japan. I got in with a bachelor of Art!! :D
Thank you! Also, would you consider the Jet program to be a temporary or long term job? I noticed on their website that Jet employees don't work for this program a long period of time.
A. Ward I would say the JET Programme is temporary as it only allows you to be apart of it for 5 years. After those five years you could potentially stay in Japan and work somewhere else, but you'd need to speak a moderate amount of Japanese. I know lots of people who did their five years and stayed to work in different kinds of jobs. You can also stay for up to one year, which is what I did. Because I had some obligations back in Canada I had to return after so soon. Two or three years is the typical range of time people stay to teach. :)
Thank you! I am aiming to become a CIR someday, so thank you for sharing your knowledge. (◎^▽^◎)
Have you experienced working a job in Canada before the Jet Programme? Your “bad” comments about the Programme are ordinarily experienced in any job setting. You are in a real workplace situation as an ALT staff so your expectation of maximizing benefits from Jet Programme should consider that you are supposed to work, you are not on cacation.
So true about the overlap with the predecessor. Luckily, I was able to meet mine the day before she left, but I still wish she was around a couple more days!
I have a question. Does English have to be your native language?
Not saying that I'm bad at English.
As far as I know no, you it doesn´t have to be your native language, but it should be on a very high level.
Sanel R. Good thanks! English is the only thing I'm good at XD
Baka_Ichi sorry for the late reply! No it doesn't have to be your native language but you do have to have a strong grasp of it. :)
Woah super helpful!! Do you recommend saving money prior to teaching abroad or would the first pay check cover it?...
Thank you for your comment! I would highly recommend bringing money with you. I brought $4000 for my dependant and myself. It lasted us about a month since we had to buy tons of furniture for ourselves and we wanted to do all the cool fun things the first month we arrived. Your first pay check definitely covers a decent amount of costs. The more you bring with you, the more money you'll have to spend.
Hi Jess! Great video! :D I found out i got the job with JET last week. Now I'm twiddling my thumbs, wondering where my placement will be, what age range ill be teaching, what stuff i can do to prepare before i fly out in july..
When you first arrived, did you have someone with you to take you to your town/city? To show you your apartment/how to pay the bills/get set up/ get a mobile phone/ show you how to get to school etc?
Or are you just sent on a train to your placement destination and youre expected to figure it out for yourself?
How is it ? Where were you placed ?
At least JETs have the option of subsidized rent.
I am assuming that even their health insurance and pension is paid.
People from countries other than the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the UK have an extremely difficult time trying to make it as an ALT because these countries will never get JET opportunities, no matter their English ability.
Dispatch companies are far worse than JET. You do all the work of JETs, and Then some, but are paid less, have nothing covered, barely get travel compensated fully, and have no rent subsidy.
i love the bjd doll in the back
Hi, are you still out in Japan ?? I hope to come out in summer 2019. Thanks for the balanced video :) im English so I also dont understand paying for the doctor etc haha, hope I meat someone as cute as you there when I go.
This is very insightful! Thanks! I was wondering though, are all ATLs native English speakers?
No, they are not :)
whaat is this program about?
It's no penis party lets get that straight XD It's JET Programme: Japanese English Teaching Programme. People go into the Japanese school systems and assist non-English speaking teachers, teach English. I'm heading out there this summer. Lived there for six months a couple years ago. Ditching the good ole US for the next century or so...
+Lizz Mason ah okay i would to be a english or spanish teachsr in japan altnough im not sure why english is important in japan for
+Danz Castellòn business!! So many corporations are tied with English speaking companies and English has become the international language of business. The second most learned language in Japan is Spanish because of similar reasons. Plus they have many workers who speak Spanish primarily and no Japanese at all
they should get spanish as well becuase either way Spanish is a just as important to enlglish when to all that type of stuff and the globe it self i think, tbh ill fall in love real quickly if a japanese woman speakas my language *_____*... me gusta
+Danz Castellòn then go study at an international studies college in Japan for a month. At the school I attended many beautiful Japanese girls spoke Spanish and want to visit Spanish speaking countries. :)
for the living in the middle of no where part (Great video by the way, thanks for the info ^-^) I don't mind living in the country side, I prefer the beauty of the country side. it may be just me, but I'd rather view the mountains and small towns, and villages, rather than big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto. So the middle of no where living is a plus for me lol ^-^
uwah! my comment has a strike through it :/
Hi. Im applying for 2017 and this is really good info to know. Though i'm curious as to if the program will be hard on introverts (which i am). Like, is it easy to hang out with the other ALTs? or is it completely up to you to go out and meet ppl? any info on that kind of social aspect? thanks in advance
Sounds like a Minnesota accent? Just a guess
Yo they need balls leave like yo my balls hurt I need 3 days off paid
Japanese man: I got you homi 👌
you get 20 days off a year for JET though so having to use nenkyu isn't that big of a deal.
Of course, it's when you're sick and away from school for 3 days that you have to use your vacation days for.
LeeTTurally!
Hello! First off, thank you for the video, it was much more informative and fun than any other I have found in my research! I had a quick question I've been wanting to ask someone who had actually been in the program, and that is age-gap issue. I got a late start in life and did graduate with my bachelor's until this year (I am now 28). Was there a varied age of program attendees, or would I feel out of place as "the old guy," if I were to follow through with joining the program? I know that might sound silly, but it's a legitimate concern for me! :]
umm in the jet program do they help and send you over here or do you have to pay for the flight yourself ?
Hi Jess, thank you so much for this video. Really helpful. I'm looking to get into this program upon completion of my degree. Have you heard about ALT's with families? Wondering if that would be a factor when they select applicants. Thanks
Thanks!
literally
What an informative video! I've never heard of menstrual leave, I wish they had that by me
Thank you very much! Yes I never heard of menstrual leave until I went to Japan. Neat, eh!
does Jet care about the accreditation of your college? im from the USA and about to be finished with my online IT degree.
You have to have a bachelors degree
Do you get to live alone?
What is a dependant? Thanks!
Alice Ridley A dependent is someone who can't work in Japan because they don't have the righty visa. So they're dependent on you. :)
You read Malebranche?!
who notice the doll staring
So Japanese is beneficial not really recommended ?
Good question!! Japanese is SUUUUPER beneficial!! You don't have to know Japanese but it DEFINITELY helps. You'll be able to read more signs and speak to locals and learn more about the culture. You'll also know when you're kids aren't on task and if the teachers have lots of drama between them. Hahaha. I didn't know Japanese and I did just fine. :)
So Tokyo Orientation is basically like the Olympics? I love that idea
9:00 Yes, let's make it so women and women only get an extra 36 days off per year. A great idea.
The only thing I disagree with you on with the bad is the lesson plans. You're suppose to have a lesson planned out before you leave for JET. You're a teacher, your job is to teach! Why wouldn't you have a lesson planned out? That is more of people being ill prepared then JET being unfair .
I just hope I don't have to pay more than 400 in rent, cause I am cheap. XD