Why I Want To Teach In Japan

Children are the future of a nation. If they live in a bubble of never interacting, or learning another language they’ll never truly know about the outside word. As well, teaching in another country is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Teaching itself is already a difficult and well-respected job that shapes the youth before they become adults. Doing so in another country would strengthen the teacher’s patience and experience, but broaden their worldview. Teaching that one or two classes could set up a child for a future travelling abroad and learning more about the world and its inhabitants.
This is why I wish to teach abroad. I’ve been accepted to Temple University Japan campus, but I’ll certainly work during and after my degree. Japan is always in need of English teachers, and anyone who would pass up the opportunity would be a fool. English is certainly not an easy language to learn. Nor is it easy to teach. Still, watching them finally grasp a concept or grammar rule easily makes up for it.
However, most places and countries require a bachelor's degree in any subject so long as you have a degree and a willingness to teach. Most Americans would typically go to a university in the US and go teach abroad after their studies, but sadly I cannot afford that. Universities at home are so expensive and while many loans exist they won’t be given to families like mine (as we don’t make enough). Temple University though is an accredited American college, but in Japan! Meaning, the prices are much cheaper while also giving me the base to learn Japanese and have an easier time finding a job once finished with my degree. Since (normally) the hardest part of teaching abroad is finding a place that will help you get to said country without a strict contract or payments. While there are certain companies that do do the placements such as JET you often have apply in the US, wait months for a interview, and even then there’s no guarantee they’ll sponsor your visa to go or aid in paying for the fees. Already being in the country borders with a degree and willingness to teach and learn without leaving and coming back in a few months would only be logical. Killing two birds with one stone essentially.
Japan itself is also a beautiful country with a very different culture and language. Students are taught independence and how to be self sustaining from an early age. Everyone practices ‘wa’ or group harmony. Making many natives very polite and kind even to ignorant strangers. Recycling is a complicated ritual of separating garbage into 5 different types which will individually be picked up a certain day of the week. Nature and technology meet and blend in cities and villages as tradition mixes with the new age. Foods from freshly made ramen shops to places like the insanely popular robot cafe themed meals. I’d like to fully experience that myself firsthand someday.

Author: Jessica Lester