Job Discussion Forums

Sage · Joined: 09 Apr 2003 Posts: 144 Location: Iwate no inaka!

I currently live in Japan and work for one of the 'big 4'. At the end of my current contract I'd like to move from my ekaiwa job to an ALT position. Also, I'd like to move to Northern Japan as I like cole weather, nature, and snow.

1) When should I start looking? (My contract ends in April)

2) I know Interac is big on ALT but half of you say stay away from them. Are there any other schools / dispatch / etc. that you would recommend for me to look in to?

Thanks,

Sage

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan

Big John Stud · Joined: 07 Oct 2004 Posts: 513

The school year starts in April so you need to apply way before. You do know an ekaiwa position does have some advantages over being an ALT?

The problem with a lot of ALT dispatch is that you don't get to pick where you are going to be stationed.

moot point · Joined: 22 Feb 2005 Posts: 441

Why not JET?

Big John Stud · Joined: 07 Oct 2004 Posts: 513

moot point wrote:

Why not JET?

I think you can't go to JET once you have taught in Japan. I do know for a fact, you can't apply for the JET program from inside of Japan.

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

Sage · Joined: 09 Apr 2003 Posts: 144 Location: Iwate no inaka!

I really don't like teaching adults.

Sitting in a chair unable to move makes me want to scream. I like the fact that with kids the atmosphere is a lot more relaxed and I get to move around.

I'm not interested in JET and I already live in Japan. I don't think I'd get into JET anyway. My GPA wasen't so hot X_x but I'm really good with kids. :)

So, is Interac the only ALT company past the goverment funded JET program?

Big John Stud · Joined: 07 Oct 2004 Posts: 513

There are many companies now days that provide ALT to public and private schools. I work for a different one than Interac.
I warn you, you must be careful. USCOM still owes me two months salary for October and November of 2003. I have a lawyer, but he works so slow!

Check the company out before taking a position. Some companies bid so low for a contract, they can't afford to pay you enough to survive!
Check out the company by calling the local labour board, posting a thread about the company on this website, and make sure they provide a written contract.
The company I work for now is very honest and sincere in wanting to provide quality ALTs!
Good luck!