Preparing for Japan

I have just over two months before I depart for Japan. This feels like a long time to me, but there are still several things I need to do to prepare: finish taxes, sell my condo (there are a few interested parties and one serious buyer), pack and move out. It sounds easier than it probably will be. I’m also going to try to learn some Japanese. It’s not a requirement for my teaching assignment, but will certainly make my life more fulfilling while I’m there.

Some more details about this latest venture:

I’ll be teaching through the Westgate Corporation. I was looking for institutions that offer short-term contracts, which are rather difficult to find. There are plenty of schools, recruiters and companies that hire for full-year contracts, but few that hire for only a few months. Westgate is unique in this regard. They hire English teachers for 3-5 month terms, to teach in their client schools in Japan, which are mostly in the Tokyo area.

My experience with them so far as been exceptional. The application process was very thorough and efficient. After submitting a 3-part application (including scans of my diplomas, transcripts and TEFL certification, an essay-style questionnaire and several professional references), I was selected for a phone interview. The Human Resources person who was assigned to my application called me at a pre-determined time. This interview was as long and complete as any interview I’ve experienced. I was very impressed with the professionalism and courtesy of Ms. Nozawa during our conversation.

A few days later, I received an email in which I was offered the position of English teacher at a university for 11 weeks. I’ll be assigned to my school a month before I arrive.

As part of the training process, I’ll complete an E-Training module before I leave the U.S. In addition to classroom-style training, this is a way to familiarize Westgate’s teachers with its methodology. Also, there will be several days of orientation once I arrive in Tokyo.

Each instructor will have a supervisory staff that will include a Program Coordinator, Curriculum Development and Training Staff, and a Human Resources Coordinator. This team will help with training, ongoing responsibilities and logistics of living in Japan.

I’ll have my own furnished apartment, cell phone and commuter pass. I’ll be reimbursed for my plane ticket which I’ve already purchased.

In the next few weeks I’ll receive a document that will allow me to get my visa at the Japanese Consulate in Denver. After arriving in Japan, I’ll get an Alien Registration Card which allows me to (legally) live there. This is required for anyone residing there for more than 90 days, and is also necessary to open a bank account in which my salary will be deposited.

The Instructor Handbook is full of detailed information on many other topics (culture, dress, manners, expectations, communication style, policies, etc.). It seems that every conceivable issue is covered. I had to sign two identical contracts, as well as a document that stated I received the contracts.

Although some of this seems repetitive and excessive, it serves to reinforce the quality of Westgate’s operation. They accept applications from native English speakers from all over world, so it’s understandable that their screening process and requirements are strict and consistent. I feel excited and confident about my upcoming term with them!