About the JET program

My husband, Joel, and I started looking into the JET program beginning in September of 2012. Joel was to be graduating from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana in May of 2013. With 'real life' soon approaching we were looking into different career opportunities for Joel. He had mentioned the JET program to me before, however we had never seriously thought about it until time for application. Many of you might already know what the program is. For many like myself, who until recently had no clue what it was and had never heard of the program, might need some insight.

The JET program stands for Japanese Exchange and Teaching program. This program is designed to connect different countries from all around the world with Japan. The JET program employs several thousand people from many countries around the globe to teach English in Japanese schools. This program is so vital in helping to promote foreign language education as well as integration of cultures. It also provides, for those who participate as well as their families, some insight into the rich and traditional Japanese culture. 

Because the JET program is so vast and involves many different countries with thousands of JET hopefuls, the application process often times involves a lot of patience. The process of applying as well as the information you receive was absolutely wonderful, but because there are so many people applying for these positions the process can be long. We submitted Joel's application in October of 2013, and then waited until January of 2013 before we got the email that we had gotten an interview. We then drove from Muncie, Indiana to Chicago, Illinois for the interview which took place at the Japanese Consulate at the end of February of 2013.  We received word that we got the position in April and then could start planning our lives. 

As a married couple Joel and I had to decide if this was the best move for us. I hadn't experienced living anywhere besides my hometown of Muncie, however Joel had traveled extensively and had lived in several different areas.  I knew that if we applied we had a great chance of getting the job and prepared myself for what was to come. As fate would have it, Joel received an email telling us that he got the job. We even got our first choice of city, which was Kyoto, Japan. Living somewhere out of the United States was always something that I wanted to experience, however dreaming and actually making the move are two very different things. My nervousness about the move has subsided and I know that this is where we are meant to be right now. 

I feel so proud of my husband for being able to participate in such a wonderful program. Being a part of the JET program opens many doors that otherwise might not be there. The chance to travel, become accustomed to a different way of life, and to be able to dive into such a rich culture is such a gift. It is truly an opportunity of a lifetime, and I look forward to many wonderful adventures and memories to come. 

You can also view my husbands blog that describes his experiences as a JET at http://bigtreelittletree.blogspot.com/

Learn more about the JET program by visiting the website at 
http://www.jetprogramme.org/