Job Discussion Forums

jeffdog · Joined: 03 Jul 2009 Posts: 12

Thanks in advance for helping me out here and thanks for be willing to use your expertise to help others!......i am considering teaching in Japan...I know that credentials mean alot and I want to maximize what I have, so I thought I might post mine here in order to gather some feedback on how I should approach my Japanese job search...I have a professional certification in English 6-12 in the State of Florida with five years of classroom teaching experience--including ESOL classes...I also have my ESOL endorsement through the State of Florida...My BA is in English.....That's about it......thanks again for the tips

another thing, being a high-level competitive cyclist I am looking for a place where i might be able to ride my bike and even race a little...any tips?

Thanks,
Brad

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Credentials don't really mean all that much except in certain circumstances.

You seem qualified for work in international schools (probably your best bet), but if you want to try ALT work or eikaiwa to get your foot in the door, you could do that, too.

jeffdog · Joined: 03 Jul 2009 Posts: 12

hey, thanks for the info man...any idea where i can find a comprehensive list of international schools?

stevenbhow · Joined: 13 Mar 2008 Posts: 58

I don't know what type of cyclist you are, but I was told by one of my students that people train for the Tour De France somewhere in Mie Prefecture. Don't know if this is true or not, but that is what he told me during a discussion about Lance Armstrong. I think he said it had something to so with one of the Japanese bicycle makers, so that might help you if you want to research it more.

parrothead · Joined: 02 Nov 2003 Posts: 342 Location: Japan

I'm not sure what kind of competitive cycling you are interested in, but Keirin races originated in Japan and are still somewhat popular. As for road cycling, Japan has been a cycling heaven for me. Roads are well-maintained and cover some stunning scenery. You are never far from the mountains, so you will be able to train often and challenge yourself.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

jeffdog · Joined: 03 Jul 2009 Posts: 12

Once again, I appreciate everyone's help...I am a road cylist/racer and mtber but the keirin races sound really cool...i would be spending most of the time on the road...are there alot of weekly group rides in japan?........thanks for the link Glenski!