Job Discussion Forums

[Talkback]

I'm currently going through the Westgate application and would be very grateful for some specific advice about the accommodation which is offered.

I've read most of the relevant postings about the Westgate's program and so have a pretty good idea what to expect in the way of pro and cons.

Of course, the negatives (long commute, long working hours, unimaginative & repetitive lessons etc...) aren't great. But having not taught in Japan before and so knowing little about how it all works, a 3/4 month contract (+ a year's working visa!!!) to give me my feet is worth the concessions.

However, I have read little about Westgate's accommodation about from a few passing comments which don't go into much detail.

- Are Westgate employees housed in the same complex or are things arranged privately and individually?

- Are most of the rooms singles or shares? When you share do you have a separate bedroom and common living area or is it 'cosy'?

- What is the quality of the accommodation? Of course this all depends on opinion so any pictures anyone has would be great.

- This rule I hear of 'no overnight guests allowed', is it true and is it enforced? I'm not suggesting I'm looking to impregnate half of Tokyo, nor am I the sort of person who sleeps around. But I wouldn't appreciate being treated like a teenager.

Any advice anyone can give would be great.

[bule_boy69]

Accommodation - Total pot luck mate. As is the job itself for that matter.

You might luck out... or you could be a long nasty commute on a packed train (or 2) away from your job.

All single as far as I know. Not at all 'cosy' nothing is communal. It will be a tiny self contained space. you could be in a block with a load of other ESLers or there could be just a few. There are loads where i live, but you can have as much or as little to do with them as you like.

wouldn't stress to much about the other thing

[passport220]

100% of the instructors I talked to at the last Westgate orientation (about 30) all had single apartments. My apartment is a small studio with separate kitchen and bath. It is modern and efficient. It was fully furnished with all / most of the items need for basic living (everything on the Westgate list, plus a few extras). Some have an internet connection; I was disappointed that mine did not. There is one other Westgate teacher who has his own apartment in the same building as mine.

My comute it 45 to 50 mins. "door to door", Westgate pays all transportation costs.