Co-author and editor of Jet Program Guide here. I’m a JET alumn from 2014-2017. Here I’ve posted my Statement of Purpose, which was written in 2013 for the JET application, and helped get me an interview and spot on JET in 2014.
Take a look to get an idea of how I structured my SoP. The areas I wanted to focus most on were my study abroad spent in Japan and relevant teaching/instructing experience. The exact prompt for the statement of purpose may vary from year to year, but I think generally the interviewers are looking to see if you have a genuine interest in Japan and cultural exchange that isn’t just shallow (i.e. you’re a fan of anime and video games, but haven’t taken the initiative to learn more about Japanese culture or language). Remember, this is a job application, so focus on why you would be a strong fit for the position. Hopefully, the following example paper will help you generate ideas for writing your own SoP.
2013 Statement of Purpose
Last September, as I strolled down the streets of Kyoto to see the iconic Kiyomizudera temple, I was still amazed that I was in Japan. I had achieved a major personal goal and traveled abroad to study. Since childhood, I have been fascinated with Asian countries and cultures. My father immigrated to the U.S. from Indonesia; both he and my Indonesian relatives inspired me to learn more about my heritage. When I entered college I decided to major in International Studies and minor in Communications, projecting myself towards a career in international relations. My interests in Asia and communications led me to focus on Japanese language studies and culminated in a 10-month academic exchange at Kansai Gaidai University.
While living in Hirakata city, I adapted to many unfamiliar practices, such as paying for most things in cash and commuting every day on public transportation. I learned to appreciate a lifestyle different from my own and gained many valuable experiences. During my stay, I came to understand just how important contact with native speakers is for language acquisition. With the aid of my host family and speaking partner, my Japanese improved to a conversational level, while I helped them expand their English. I also enjoyed interacting with the local community and volunteering at events such as a Halloween party for children and an international students’ festival to spread cultural awareness. I had not considered teaching English in Japan until I met several people that were working as Assistant Language Teachers in Osaka. I could see that they were making a difference in the education of children by providing them with the perspective only available from a native English speaker. This realization that I could utilize my skills to help educate others is what led me to apply for the JET Program.
Aside from my international experience, I have work involvement which has equipped me with relevant skills for teaching abroad. In the spring semester of 2012 at the [University], I worked part-time as a conversation leader with INTO, an English language program for international students. Twice a week, in 90-minute class periods, I supervised lessons alongside two other conversation leaders. We utilized team-teaching methods to relay grammar points, idioms, and vocabulary. In addition, we broke into groups to have discussions in English, thereby helping to improve students’ comprehension and speaking abilities. I gained significant insights into teaching in a classroom environment and cooperating with students of different English abilities. Working at INTO was a demanding but satisfying job that allowed me to constantly engage with a diverse range of people, and provided me patience and strategies for teaching English as a second language.
If chosen to participate in the JET program I will apply these skills in order to provide an enjoyable learning experience for Japanese students. I formerly worked with young adults at the college level, but I would love the opportunity to teach younger children in elementary and middle school. At this age, they are just beginning their study of English and have likely had little exposure to someone of a different cultural background. As an Indonesian-American I can offer students a unique perspective of America as a multicultural society. I believe it is important for them to have access to a native speaker who can make learning a second language engaging, and ultimately inspire them in their studies.
As an ALT in JET, I will obtain the relevant background and necessary skills for academic and professional success. Upon returning to the United States I plan to attend graduate school for a Master’s degree in public administration. In the future, I hope to serve the United States by facilitating diplomatic efforts within vital regions of Asia. My ideal career is to work in an embassy or consulate setting and foster international relations. By participating in the JET Program, I can pursue my future aspirations to promote internationalization and friendship between the U.S. and Japan.
