Statement of Purpose

2005-07-23T12:34:00.010+09:00

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme requires a "Statement of Purpose" or a "Why do you want to work for us?" essay as part of the application process.

The Japanese language and culture is the foundation from which my interest in Japan and the JET Programme has grown. I have always been interested in teaching English as a foreign language. The idea of improving the cultural awareness of students both in Japan and in my country and giving students a reason to speak useful English has been a dream of mine for many years. I understand most of the students have a low level of interest and motivation in learning English and my goal is to stimulate their interest by working with someone from the world outside of Japan with a different background and culture.

My interest in Japan was first stimulated in 2000 when my best friend was accepted as an Assistant Language Teacher in Yamanashi. I’m highly adaptable and can successfully handle living in urban cities and isolated rural towns. Even though I have been studying the culture and language of Japan I feel as though I have much more to learn, and that living and working in Japan will provide that knowledge and experience that I seek.

My work experience is in restaurant management as a chef which requires flexibility in teaching style, patience and being able to work well under pressure while under constantly changing situations and environments. It has been critical to the development of my leadership skills to be able to effectively communicate and lead non-English speaking culinary students. Being able to read learning habits and teach accordingly is a skill I trust will help me in similar situations that the JET Programme will probably present. I am a highly competitive athlete and participate in running, biking and winter sports and have volunteered at many other sporting and social events. Joining the city hall running club, leading interpretation hikes up Mt. Fuji and supporting school athletic days will in turn help me cultivate relationships between myself, students and members of the Japanese community. My effective speaking and ability to lead a group are essential in a classroom setting and will be vital to an Assistant Language Teacher in the JET Programme.

By participating in the JET Programme I hope to reap the benefits of a life-enhancing experience by empowering me to work with a different culture and permit me to learn new modes of teaching. It is during my travels that I have learned the most about who I am and which direction I’m headed in life, and at the same time I feel I am helping others learn who they are and where they want to be. I believe my experience in the JET Programme will also invigorate my academic and leadership skills.

As a result of my participation as an Assistant Language Teacher, I plan to open the door to internationalization by promoting the understanding between Japan and the sister city here in the United States and by stimulating the students interest in English and opening their eyes to the world outside Japan. This will in effect augment the foreign language education by teaching the students to communicate and use English effectively. In conclusion, I am confident the JET Programme would benefit from my experience and skills and I would learn and grow from the JET experience.

Mike In Japan

Statement of Purpose