Jikoshokai Corner

Please introduce yourself with your name, prefecture, and years spent on the JET program.

Hey, I’m Zack! I taught in Shiga prefecture for three years at Maibara High School - a high school with a pretty well-known English department. I was fortunate that my students had a relatively high command of the English language and were eager to speak with me and study hard. 

What made you want to apply to the JET Programme?

I decided to work on the JET program because I wanted to see Japan for myself, challenge myself with a new culture/language, and also get some work experience under my belt. The JET program appealed to me because it had the overall best pay, benefits, and support for those interested in teaching in Japan.

What was your most meaningful experience on JET?

One of my most meaningful experiences in Japan was traveling across Japan and getting to know many local Japanese people where I lived. There are so many cool places to see. I was drawn to the mountains so I spent a lot of time hiking, snowboarding, and backpacking. But beyond the breathtaking sights, the Japanese friends I made were amazing. I built such strong ties with my school: the teachers, students, and faculty there I won’t soon forget.

What are you most looking forward to as a JETAARM board member?

I look forward to getting involved in the various events JETAARM offers and helping with communications across the board. There’s a lot of opportunity to connect with other aspiring and former JETs. I hope to make an impact with new event ideas and getting more people involved!

Answer a fun question of your choosing (favorite food/most surprising/embarrassing story, etc)

I remember trying funazushi (fermented sushi) for the first time. My Japanese coworkers said, “You HAVE to try this!” with a big grin on their faces. I smelled it and it was absolutely rancid. I plugged my nose as I put the fermented dish in my mouth - and what followed wasn’t any more pleasant. I managed to swallow it with a forced “Mmmm”. Their eyes looked at me with amazement asking if I truly liked it. I swallowed and said, “That’s awful!”. Everyone laughed. I later realized that not very many people like it, but love to tease people with the idea that it’s so good! “At least once in your life”, they would say. Indeed, once and never again!