Want to be a Native English Teacher in Japan? 5 expectations for your first 5 months.

1. If you're not Asian, you will stand out.

This is a given because the population is 98% Japanese. It is important to realize, before relocating, that you will be a minority. Other people will not be used to seeing someone like you. They will stare. They might cough. Your presence alone may offend them. This is even more prevalent in rural areas, where you may be the first Westerner your neighbor has ever seen.

2. Your students will be smart.

The sound of broken English is often associated with low intelligence, but this could not be further from the truth. People who make an attempt at learning a second language are actually enhancing their brainwaves. You will be teaching people who have a life-time of knowledge and acquired skills. Language learners are taking lessons to increase their intellectual abilities, not to be treated like a baby.

3. Your English fluency will not make teaching easy.

A native speaker of English does not know how they originally learned grammar points, vocabulary, or sentence structures. Our learning just sort of happened after we were born. This makes teaching the language extremely difficult. To use only English to teach English means that one must choose their words and phrases carefully. The slightest of rambles, especially in beginner-level classes, can lead students to confusion.

4. You will have to utilize your mornings.

The schedule of a typical Native English Teacher is commonly between noon and 10pm. This means that your mornings are the only time you have to pursue other interests. The majority of your day consists of lesson planning and teaching. Waking up early is a must if you want to sustain a balanced lifestyle.

5. You can (and should) travel for cheap.

During your holidays, you will have an opportunity to see a new city and it is absolutely worth it. The Japanese culture prioritizes hospitality and no matter where you visit, the service is among the best in the world. Even a small capsule hotel adventure is an experience worth partaking in. The restaurants are affordable and accommodating. The public transportation system is easy to use. The staff are welcoming to all customers, and most importantly, traveling through any foreign country will give you memories that are invaluable. Memories that will last a lifetime.

-JS

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