Introduction to the JET Program

Hi everyone!

I'd like to christen this blog with an introduction to what the JET Program is and how I managed to attain this position. The JET Program runs through the Consulate General of Japan and is sponsored by various Japanese government organizations, including CLAIR (Council of Local Authorities for International Relations), MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology), MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), and MIC (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications). So yes, it is extremely extensive, bureaucratic, professional.

The application process starts in the fall, and you can apply for several positions: ALT (assistant language teacher), CIR, or SEA. CIR's are basically translators and teachers on the side, while SEA's are high level athletes. Most of the people on JET are ALTs (including myself), and the rest of the information here is for that position.

You must submit an application along with 2 letters of recommendation. You do not need any teaching experience or credentials, but it is highly encouraged that you have some because they will be useful. You also do not need to speak any Japanese, but it is also recommended that you learn some because living in Japan is remarkably difficult without any Japanese language skills. My Japanese is better than most of the newer people here in the program, and yet I'm still frustrated with simple daily tasks like using the washing machine and reading signs and menus.

After your application is reviewed and if you have been selected as a possible candidate, you get a notification of an interview. After the interview, the wait for the results begins. If you were chosen as a "short-list" candidate, that means you made it! "Alternates" are second in line (in case short-listers decline or fail to provide paperwork) and the rest are the rejects. After receiving the results, the paper chase begins. There are many forms to provide and order, like medical forms, tax forms, proof of graduation, and an FBI background check. It is a tedious and harrying process, but these forms are the final barrier keeping you from Japan. Before you leave and after you arrive, there are numerous orientations and events to prepare you for the drastic change in lifestyle that is Japanese society.

That's my basic rundown of what the JET Program is. From now on, this video blog will tell my story of an American moving to Japan to teach English. I hope you all enjoy this blog and I will do my best to keep it updated.