Job Discussion Forums

[jamieeee]

You probably get this kind of topic a lot, but I couldn't find anything this specific.
So...

I could really do with some advice about teaching in Japan.
I've fallen in love with a Japanese girl, and really want to move out east to be with her. I've been living and studying Italian, in Italy, for the last 6 months (I'm a UK citizen), and as such I have almost no savings. If I go to Japan then I'll need to be able to support myself, and I find the idea of teaching English pretty interesting, I suppose you could say I've been inspired by a teacher I've had here.

However I have no degree, and no relevant experience teaching. Did some volunteer work with young people, but that was about film and drama. Nothing academic at all.

I could do a CELTA course, but I don't want to spend the 3 years it would take for a degree.

What do you think are the best options? I really don't mind starting at the very bottom of the 'ladder', but is it even possible to reach the first rung?

From what I've read it seems almost impossible to get a visa without a degree, and marrying is not really an option. I'm only 24!

A working holiday visa seems feasible, but what is the situation like in Japan? I don't want to turn up and find that I can't get work anywhere.

I could really do with some help.
love conquers all, right?

[Sashadroogie]

Sorry, old chap. I don't want to sound cruel, but this doesn't sound realistic...

[Glenski]

Why don't you post this in the Japan forum?

No degree means you have to work with a WHV, student visa (PT only), or cultural activities visa (PT). They all have limited durations, too.

With student or CA visa, you'd be doing other things than teaching to fulfill the visa requirements, so you wouldn't earn much.

Japan is flooded with teachers right now. Competition even for entry level jobs is fierce. You also just missed the peak hiring time (April start dates).

[Justin Trullinger]

Yep. What they said.

You're not in a position to get much in most job markets. YOu could try a WHV for a bit, but it's going to be rough- if you don't have a financial cushion, then uncertain employment isn't the best thing in the world.

Marrying the GF will help with visas, but won't help as much with jobs. If Japan is your goal, I'd head for your nearest university, and plan on spending some time.

If you really decide against the degree, propose to the lady and pray to God.

Love conquers all, except when it doesn't. Love is more likely to conquer all when it's supported by solid planning for the difficulties that life can bring.


Best,
Justin

[naturegirl321]

OP, how old ar eyou?

[jamieeee]

Thanks.

I know I sound stupidly niave, but that's why I'm asking these questions now. So I can learn what I need to do for the future.

The consensus seems to be "Degree, Degree, Degree!", I'm cool with that, maybe I came across as callous or something. It was badly worded. Maybe it would have been better to ask what you think the options are sans higher education. Rather then make it seems like I didn't want the work load.

I posted here because I was torn between the 'newbie' and 'Japan' forum.

Thanks again for the answers, I like that your not sugar-coating this for me. You know what it's like to be contemplating the future, the worries and plans and unrealistic expectations.
Oh, I'm only 24, there's still time

[Chancellor]

[JLL]