To start, becoming a JET is no easy process.
It’s a year-long process that requires lots of research, time, energy, and dedication.
The chances of becoming a JET are slim if you do not commit; however, putting all statistics and horror stories (you’ll read mine) aside, and as long as you have the dedication, it is possible to become a participant!
Long story short, I did not become a “short-list” JET the first time I applied. I was put on the waiting list, which is grueling for anyone. While on the waiting list, I had to weigh my choices carefully to either hold out for an opening, or decline and apply to something else.
I “declined” and pursued a private company because I knew it was a much easier and faster way to Japan. That was no lie: I interviewed with Interac in the spring, and I was on my way to Japan in August. It wasn’t hard, but my experience with the company was not great.
Teaching privately for Interac meant that my salary was low! Moreover, I had no say in what I wanted to do as a teacher, with strict organizational and school rules. I also had lackluster training and a lot of overhead cost for moving. It was a big risk, but I made the best of it.
Anyways, fast-forward to two months after my arrival in Japan, and I was dead set on applying for the JET Program again. I had the daunting task of convincing JET Program officials through my Statement of Purpose (SOP) that I was the right person for the job… even though I was already in Japan and teaching (and only a few months at that).
Fast-forward again to February and… I got an interview! However, JET interviews must be held on your home country’s soil. For me, I had to fly to the nearest consulate to conduct my interview. Luckily, Guam is a US territory and is somewhat close to Japan; it’s only a 4-5 hour flight.
My flight, hotel, rent-a-car, and time weren’t cheap. I believe the whole trip cost me about $1200, but it was a risk I was willing to take. I put all my time and dedication into getting an interview, so I was willing to go above and beyond for the home stretch.
I landed in Guam at about 2 am. I was the only American on the flight; everyone else was Japanese, so the customs line I went through was mighty quick. I got my rent-a-car and headed to my super cheap motel. It wasn’t great. However, I was able to get a few hours sleep because that same day I had my interview!
My interview was held in the afternoon on my arrival day. Also, Guam is a really hot, so I was profusely sweating everywhere in my suit when I arrived at the consulate. The building was cold at least. For my interview, I was greeted by 4 interviewers! A panel of 3 is the norm.
After months of teaching and development, I knew I was prepared. I destroyed the interview, absolutely crushed it. I was extremely confident in my interview. I worked hard to use all my new ALT skills to set myself apart. I also practiced day-in and day-out with my friend who interviewed back in the states.
The interview was over in about 30 minutes, and I could spend my next two days in Guam before returning back to work in Japan.
This story becomes more intense because I still had no idea of my results 2 months later, so I continued to play the waiting and job-seeking game. Remember, the process of becoming a JET is very long. In the meantime, I reapplied within Interac and applied with a better company, Altia Central.
After getting accepted to other regions in both of those private companies, I was still waiting on JET while the other companies wanting me were getting anxious. My private company was furious with me since I hadn’t decided to take their offer, and I needed an excuse for Altia to hold out as long as possible.
I ended up declining both job offers from Interac and Altia.
A few weeks later, I finally knew my JET result…
I was “short-listed”!
I made the short-list. With news of the results, I could change my place of departure to my home state, return and relax for a bit, and then I could fly out again to Japan with the JET Program.
My JET story is a bit absurd and unique, but it shows that anything is possible for someone who wants to pursue the program and teach in Japan. Just try and try again if it’s your dream to become a JET!
New Information:
“*Guam interviewees must be Guam/Saipan residents.”
If you are in Japan and are American, you cannot interview in Guam anymore unless a resident of the territory. However, Hawaii is still an alternative option. Always double-check and research current guidelines about where you can interview!
