Job Discussion Forums

[chi-chi-]

PROS: You will be accepted much more readily by Asians (not just in Japan but other Asian countries) than the other people as far as day to day life. You can dress in Japanese clothes and no one will look at you wierd like they would a Western person. They wouldn't be suprised if YOU like Cherry Blossoms, but will be surprised that your "Western" friends do.
CON: You will not be taken seriously when it comes to English teaching. You will be offered every bottom of the barrel job. (This factor is reduced the further West you go in Asia). You might want to get a visa before you go. In class, the students may look at you in surprise, expecting a "Western" person. I use that term superficially-many Japanese and other Asian peoples are like frogs in a well, and think that any Asian/Hispanic/Arabic/Black person is NOT Western. There is a classification and at work you will have to prove yourself.
Or you could go over there seeking a different type of work.
If you do aspire to the Eikaiwa scene in Japan and are Asian get hired abroad by NOVA or somewhere and get your visa before arrival. This seems to be the best way for minorities and or cohabitating couples (as mentioned in a different thread.)

*Oh and if you have your heart set on Japan DO GO FOR IT as the living conditions are better than in other Asian countries and I think Japan needs plenty of new teachers besides. Just get that visa before you head out. If you only have a few months left in school by all means finish and then go for it.

[polaris]

Wow, thanks for the great input guys!

As for having my heart set on Japan; no, I guess not. I would _prefer_ to go to Japan. Just because it is a unique culture there and living conditions are better, but if I had to, I guess I wouldn't mind going somewhere else too, like China, Taiwan, or Korea. I think it would be a great experience any way you cut it.

But money is a concern, at the very least I would want to come out of the program with a similar balance at my bank (what do they call it over there? genkoo? Haha, go Japanese 101!) as when I entered the program. I have heard, however, that you actually get to save more money in places like China and Taiwan because it would be cheaper to live. How true is that, if at all?

[spidey]

TRUE!

If you are looking for short term employment and the ability to save money rather quickly...South Korea, China or Taiwan are definitely your best choices in Asia. (Don't quote me on that. ) Japan, however, is more geared to the long term employment seeker. It definitely takes a longer time to find your groove here.

[polaris]

Interesting, maybe I should lurk into those areas of the forum before going any further. Maybe my employment this summer lies not in Japan, but else where!

[Brooks]

I have met Asian-Americans who have all had good experiences in Japan. One was a Chinese-Canadian from Vancouver who lived in Osaka.
Another was a Chinese-American who has been in Tokyo for ten years.
Another is a Japanese-American who changed his job and now makes more money than before.