Teaching English in Japan | ALT| Expectation VS Reality

[@karinalaw]

oh girl, i'm so glad that someone else agrees with me that japanese people are not really THAT polite!!!

[@zygel4418]

Karina Law honne and tatemae

[@zoozbuh]

It’s just that in reality they’re no more polite than people from any other country. Everyone is different and has their own personality, after all. The difference is the culture of “consideration” and having to consider other people’s feelings before your own, which is something ingrained into Japanese people from childhood. In a way it’s nice, but it also makes it a little tricky to know who your true friends are.

[@asunayuuki9842]

@@zoozbuh gagoka

[@agreedboarart3188]

So basically they're like everyone lol

[@theamazingworldoferis]

The part that they are not really that polite is so true. My boyfriend is a Japanese and according to him, that in order not to hurt your feelings they will really sugar-coat things (this goes for some race as well). Being polite, for some of them, is just an obligation because they're trained and expected to act like one. Am I making any sense?😂

[@yourmajesty7604]

This is kinda what I realized living in the U.S. too. At first they were really nice but then I notice how some of them are fake and don't really mean what they say. Guess it's the same for every country.

[@moonhead4057]

I am a college student and is currently studying the education course. Since I'm planning to be an ALT in Japan after I graduated, so this video really helps a lot.

[@toritaro3098]

What major are u in?

[@moonhead4057]

@@toritaro3098 English, typically.

[@bassiebassie3417]

Goodluck!

[@garniya1259]

Joining you soon🌚

[@johnclifforddudas7527]

Hey How are you doing now?

[@zoozbuh]

I can vouch that this is very honest and mostly accurate. No country is perfect... and the English education in Japan DEFINITELY isn’t perfect. There will be many frustrations while getting used to a different culture, but there are much, much worse countries to live in. I find the more Japanese you speak, the smoother and easier everything gets. If you can explain your feelings and communicate a little better, there’s much less awkwardness. But even if not, the experience is what you make of it! It seems like you’re realistic but positive. Your advice to “smile” was so valuable- makes such a difference to be bubbly and approachable, no matter how sad you might feel at first. That kind of thing transcends language 👍🏽

[@riaso5157]

for introverts, it's not a big deal 😍😍😍😍

[@MrSHARP27]

Sounds like a dream for introverts

[@akira9195]

Bruh

[@jayce_cccc]

Exactly! 💕

[@kevin080592]

yes!!!..im more on the introvert side! japan is a good idea for me

[@yahoitstristan8648]

Yeah...haha

[@kathrynrose6519]

Culturally speaking, the Japanese like being vague and indirect but the 'real' meaning is already implied. I wouldn't really call it not being dishonest, it's just a culture thingy. But yes it could be hard for a foreigner to get the implied meaning, making it sound like they're sugar coating everything

[@glaizaganaba8625]

It's not "sugarcoating" it's what they call as tatemae, that's how they behave publicly. It helps in establishing harmony.

[@theclassroomagenda4216]

Glaiza Ganaba I agree.

[@anthonyrenz27]

ye

[@tonytheomae7360]

Respect right?

[@zoozbuh]

To someone who doesn’t know a lot about Japanese culture, I’d say “sugarcoating” is a near-enough equivalent in English. It’s something that’s ingrained into the culture, but some Japanese people (especially younger people) aren’t as rigid with it, and say what they really feel a little more.

[@asunayuuki9842]

@@zoozbuh tang INA mo

[@mrsebastianharris]

Thank you for your video and advice - it's different to other accounts I've heard but it's good to be prepared for a variety of situations.

[@MikeTheGamer77]

Also keep in mind the cost of living depends greatly on where you live within Japan and how frugal you are with money.

[@kt0810ab]

I think it's a first world country behavior - where your workmates don't really become your close friends or "family"... this feeling of isolation, I find this very common in those places.... just my opinion

[@kriss9148]

exactly, lalo focus lang sa work.

[@smthk3240]

I never ever believe Japane coworkers and bosses whatever they say, just leave it, and don't take it personal. Japanese people are not that polite and love patronizing others, and discriminate non Japanese. When you settle here, you'll find them all.

[@jay_idk337]

Snowflake

[@hyesuwon585]

Wow I love that! I'm highly introverted. I love that work is work. I love that i don't get invited etc. Too friendly and close relationships at work really burdens me. Now I'm considering Japan. Thanks for this ❤

[@eedom69]

Japan is really introverted. Rare would be someone that approaches you. Most of the time you are left to your devices kind of how she said... sometimes ostracized as a foreign weirdo.

[@John-ss6tb]

I live in Mississippi and I always hear about Southern Hospitality. Everything you've said about hospitality I've heard about the American south. It's true it's lip service and it's "fake nice," but IMO it could be so much worse. I'd rather a culture of people attempting to be polite, ya feel?

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

yeah... I agree

[@kevin080592]

me too... rudeness is just stressful sometimes

[@babyface2142]

I like how she talks while looking around as if someone might be listening

[@curigs]

I loved your video. Thanks a lot. Very honest but totally encouraging. The right doze of reality

[@mtlbyjessa1757]

"In their hearts, they're not as polite as you think they are." I agree.

[@ivykhryss1147]

I just started my work as an ALT here in Japan and to be honest, THIS IS SO TRUEEEE. Everything you talked about being an ALT in Japan is so TRUEEEE. Thankfully I found your video so alam ko na "normal" lang pala na eexperience ko as an ALT. 1 week palang ako ALT & lahat ng sinabi mo na experience ko na lol 😂

[@II-vr6we]

Hi! I’m currently a Highschool student wanting to teach abroad in South Korea, Japan, or in China. I really want to teach abroad after college or Highschool. Do you have any tips?

[@rachelannvenancio711]

Hello. Is it a requirement to know Japanese language first before applying to JET? Thanks

[@ivykhryss1147]

@@rachelannvenancio711 I don't have any idea eh, I'm not under the JET program po kasi :)

[@ivykhryss1147]

@@II-vr6we if sa Japan ka, I think ma aadvice ko lang eh siguro mag learn ka ng language nila, kahit basic lang. Sakin kasi parang naaawa ako dun sa mga batang gusto makipag usap sana sakin or laro kaso di naman kami nagkakaintindihan hahaha and siguro ano hmm 🤔 kung sa JET ka mag aapply, gain ka ng experience dyan talaga then nood ka ng mga vlogs about JET programs para may idea ka :)

[@SongKang-ls5fx]

We are so proud of you 😊.. Indeed, you're such a good speaker.

[@317ammy]

I thought only native English speaker who is eligible to teach in Japan..but you prove it wrong...thank miss

[@casualenglishwithamy6951]

Do you teach English in Japan now?

[@eirelav4]

To be honest, I don't see any problem with being polite out of obligation. If it creates a better and more comfortable working environment so be it. It's just me though because I think that having a peace of mind in your work place or anywhere is better than being constantly bothered why they're so mean to you. I guess more than respect we can also call this professionalism. Though I do understand it'd be much better if everyone was truly nice to you. Also, it''s not like we have to be friends with everyone, anyways.

[@jollysafia3698]

totally agree with you👌

[@ryokohonda4619]

Being polite is different from being two faced.

[@eirelav4]

@@ryokohonda4619 just because your being ‘polite out of obligation’ doesn’t necessarily mean you’re two faced. It’s still a case to case basis.

[@InterestingMK]

It becomes a problem when it prevents them from giving you any feedback or constructive criticism to help you improve. That's the main problem I had with my JTEs as an ALT. They would never hove any useful feedback to anything I did, and I know my lesson plans weren't perfect. Fast forward to two years later, my foreign manager comes to observe a lesson and he gets furious at me after the lesson, saying I was so bad and one if the worst ALTs he had seen. And all that maybe could've been prevented if anyone had given me any useful feedback at all, but nope. This is why is it's important to be direct in certain situations, and not withholding all thoughts just for the sake of "keeping the peace".

[@YamadaplaysThis]

Just go with the flow...I lived here in Japan for almost 3.5 decades and I like it here. .Miss reality you should expect the unexpected when you go from one country to another. First of all you have to learn about their culture and language.Stop being judgemntal but try to win their hearts and you will never regret it.

[@jwa10]

Great information. I hope your experience has grown to be more fulfilling. Thank you for this video. Keep going!!!!!!!!

[@kim_8958]

I agree with that sugarcoating thing when it comes to emotions. That is called "tatemae" and usually happens in my classes (I teach Japanese online).

[@voicedoutthoughts8637]

Oh my gosh. This made me feel better. I thought I was the only one experiencing those realities. Yup, it would help a lot to make yourself busy after. I got a part-time job.

[@mairesseabenio2754]

I like it when you said, you just smile :) coz there were times or often I dont smile when i get too serious at work :)

[@cody7556]

Hi! Im really happy i stumbled upon your channel! Im planning to apply as an ALT soon and your videos are super helpful!

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

Cody thanks for watching! more videos coming up!!

[@kenwoodjularbal]

Very informative, as always. Thank you very much :D

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

Kenwood Jularbal you're welcome! part 2 of the alt process will be up hopefully next week :)

[@DianesseMonica]

I really wanted to be an ALT teacher, please do help me how to apply. 😭

[@ember7885]

I’m applying to ALT when I get my bachelors degree, idk if you’ve already done research considering it’s a year lol, but just simply go to the JET program website

[@Msliliheart]

I am so glad I get to see this video. I am planning to go to a seminar for this and I am a nervous wreck. But seeing this and hearing your experiences makes me feel better, knowing that I have an idea of what I am getting into. Instant subscriber.

[@msb1116]

Wow! So glad I got to watch your video. First time watching vlogs about teaching in Japan (Filipinos). Thanks for this vid. Looking forward to more tips.

[@ryokohonda4619]

It's true. They usually talk behind your back. But at least they just give you the respect you deserve.

[@dorkysaur]

When I was still working in Australia my normal is 60 hours a week. Sheez 29 hours work is like giving me an early parole in jail. Thank you for sharing your insight.

[@Youtyubah]

Thank you ms candy! For sharing your experiences as an englosh teacher in japan

[@layniedee]

I guess there are a lot who emphasizes that all Japanese people are polite forgetting about some factors like culture norms, etc. 🤔 Thank you for this honest video. 💕

[@r61795]

Thankyou for this video. ♥️😘

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

you're welcome! :D

[@MariaLuisa-zb4fl]

I laugh when she say "it's really nice country with clean public toilet" 😂

[@MariasLifeAdventure]

Big help thank you for the information. Just applied in ALT I hope I’ll pass the job.

[@bevpaderes893]

Thanks, very informative. I felt the same when I was teaching in SG and I thought it will be better in TH but it's still the same haha. But I am still interested in applying as an ALT. Thanks for this vid :)

[@eseru33]

I totally agree, with Japanese being so discreet about their true feelings towards you especially in the workplace

[@wexlovexrock]

I'm canadian and never in my life have I seen a colleague outside of work. In every job I've had colleagues that I connected well with and we liked talking at work but that's it. I think it's something you would have experienced almost anywhere just because the Philippines is actually the odd one out, where colleagues are super close !

[@BitznPiecez]

In the Caribbean, colleagues build genuine relationship outside of work. Some are close relationships and there are cliques in all places

[@julieanndiamante20]

Exactly! They are obliged to be polite and courteous hence quite disappointing. People from the countryside are warmer and more sincere. :)

[@VerucaS9lt]

This was helpful, thank you!

[@jadediris73]

I can relate, especially the "co-workers" part! Haha! I've worked in Shanghai for a long time; I find the Chinese more genuine with their feelings- they're very warm and friendly!

[@wetv760]

chinese are not friendly in general.

[@boredsensei441]

I came across your vlog, I'm currently teaching in an Eikawa here in Japan and been thinking to switch to from an eikaiwa to ALT BUT I've been hearing lots of negatuve things too. This video helps :)

[@beatusmarie6631]

Hello,I am interested to apply as an Eikawa teacher. If you don't mind, what's your dispatch company? Thanks

[@allthingsmundane.11]

Hi, Ms. Karla. When did you know that you'll be assigned in Nagano? How long was it after you submitted your application for COE?

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

Hello, I knew about my placement a few days into training, so I was already here in Japan. I came here (initially) not knowing where I'll be assigned. It was tough but thank God, He placed me here! :)

[@らいどう-c5m]

I'm reading the comments and I find some of these are so silly... "Japanese people aren't polite" or "these people are nicer than the others" Guys... We are all human beings. Some of us are nice and some of us aren't. Being from a certain place doesn't automatically decide what personality you are going to have. Everything does depend on the individual's experiences. Please don't forget when you are interacting with anyone from anywhere you are only meeting that one person. Please don't label a whole group of people based on a few bad experiences.

[@dominickjohnfaithmarzan2686]

Thank you for this vlog Ma'am. I really enjoyed watching this. Hopefully I could see you in Japan soon.

[@kimberlygomez5061]

Thank you Candy! You helped me a lot..

[@ThePrincess10297]

Thank you! This is so helpful.

[@LoRenOliveros]

Hi Ms. Candy, you got a new subscriber here! I've watched and liked this video as I found your content very informative and helpful for someone considering applying to the JET Program. Thank you Ms Candy for creating this video, will watch your other videos as well. God bless you even more :D

[@Katakamtakamkaba]

True yan sis. Honest sila.

[@lkjhg0909]

I really wamt to teach english in Japan. This video of yours Maam gave me motivation. ❤️❤️ thank you so much

[@casualenglishwithamy6951]

Have you found a job teaching English in Japan?

[@ハニーチャンネル-x2z]

そんな事ないです。 世界中のどこでもそれそれの文化の違ってありますので、理解して、あわせて、楽しく働いたほうがいいと思います。自分の国だって 日本と比べて、ガッカリすること絶対ありますよね。 簡単に言えばこのブログは 日本の悪口言うてますね。 私もALT です、別にこんな事ありませんです。

[@aqsaansari5985]

Can you please tell us the qualifications we need to be an English teacher in Japan..as i'm also interested in this

[@robilynvilladolid9326]

Im expexting so much from japan thqt after i graduate my college next next year... i was thinking to go there and be one of you ALT. 😊your video helps me a lot.

[@mi_sally4852]

Don't take things personally. It's just cultural difference. They're not intentionally being mean. I think its normal to have their own opinions & be judgmental about a newcomer. This eould be the same in the Philippines.

[@japanesesmiles8515]

Great video! 🇯🇵🌸 Thank you!

[@kevin080592]

this video made me realized that I can get a bit more japanese rather my native stereotype... im a bit aloof, reserved,hesitant and afraid to make mistakes.. take me to japan!...I think im gonna be okay

[@zzzzzsleeping]

You said it all and honestly!

[@tykiamda]

Im agree to you.same experience parehong pareho sometimes i lost my confidence blaming myself.crying and their some teacher that bullying you.bulungan they judge you because you are gaijin paguusapan ka nila pero nakangiti sayo mga plastic.hndi sila honest sa damdamin sa mga bgay lang sila honest.

[@gienemaygraza3217]

I just saw your video accidentally so I watched it till the end. Then, suddenly I become interested. How to apply as ALT in Japan? Your reply is highly appreciated.

[@vincentaguilar7850]

could u please make a video on how to improve english comm skills.

[@maybellemanalo6350]

Thank you very much for this informative video! I'm planning to teach in japan

[@thepaththroughtwigletsfore90]

I have a serious question I would like to ask, if that's okay? I would like to become an ESL teacher in Japan however, I have been curious as to the dress code. I love to dye my hair, wear dangling earrings, and I have a sleeve tattoo. The earrings I can obviously change to studs if allowed and hair, I'll just have to deal with not being able to dye my hair fun colors. However, I can't change the fact I have a tattoo that isn't easily hidden. I am okay with wearing long sleeves as I'm a freeze baby and get cold easily, but I have a little bit of it on the top of my hand. I could conceal it with makeup if I must. I would love to know what the dress code (clothes included) at your work place. Are they strict?

[@amh3075]

There is a difference between being polite and being nice.

[@Kamixamantha]

Hi! Maam..Pls help...i have hidden tattoos on my arms..do you think i can still get employed...do the agencies check if you have tattoos?

[@hiiro8741]

I love this!! This is really helpful ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@rnskd66]

How difficult is it to find part time teaching jobs in the countryside. I don't want to live in the city but I'm worried that I won't be able to survive on the pay in the countryside without side jobs.

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

Hello, I am being paid the exact amount as people in the city (for my job at least). In my area, it is quite easy to find a part time teaching job in fact I have been declining new students because it won't fit my already busy schedule.

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

but yeah, it may depend on your area but I'm surviving well in mine :)

[@captainwildflower2067]

Ate, hello. May i know what are the medical exams you went through that are required for this job? Also i miss you videos. You might be very busy but im reallllly looking forward for your new ones. !

[@williamgonzaga3962]

Hi Candy! I don't know but I find you funny :) Anyways, thank for your vlog it's really helpful. I'm planning to apply this 2020. Hope everything will run smoothly.

[@Chfdcb658]

saan po kayo mag-aapply? Goodluck po!

[@davidsontechie-menson4470]

Thanks for this invaluable information.

[@cristelannorario522]

Hi Ms. Candy can I ask what is you dispatch company?

[@cebulocalguidingph]

Merry Christmas, im planing to send my daughter in Osaka Japan this May 2023, she is a Japanese citizen , as of now her work is a part time online english teacher, do you have any recommendations for her in Osaka where to work and what are the requirements. Thank you so much and God Bless

[@oreowhity4440]

Yes because they are more private I know what you mean. I live in Japan for almost two decades.

[@linolonoe6296]

Wow! Basically described my first alt year here.

[@gureesushana]

subscribed! :) With Japan's toxic work culture, do you think it's still worth it learning Japanese (for career opportunities after JET) given that it'd take 2-3 years to reach the intermediate level? :( What do you advice?

[@risingsun2419]

Our company asked me to teach basic english that are use in a restaurant to my co workers! I though it was easy, so I said yes! but I was so wrong! teaching english phrases to Japanese are so hard! first I dont know how to make a lesson plan! second they can’t even read without katakana! I can read katakana, I can write, but I can’t spell ! maybe only real teachers can teach! watashiniwa muri kamoshiremasen ga mada akirametakunai! I wish there is someone who can help me how to make a lesson plan! :(

[@NenebethLojera]

How to apply in chesam Recruitment inc??

[@cebulocalguidingph]

can you recommend a dispatch company?

[@frankinjapan]

This content is very informative. Your experiences are treasures. What is your part-time job? (if you don't mind)

[@GoodMythicalEeveening]

Can I ask what's your dispatch company?

[@Maysa-kk2yy]

Did you take TEFL course and certification?

[@aizasensei7553]

Very informative! Thank you Sensei!! 💕

[@gracejenefer7415]

I agree with you I lived here for 15 years and this year luckily I worked as an ALT. and I expect that I will enjoy my job since I can speak Japanese fluently. I struggled so much. I feel maybe Im asian and not a native of speakers or whiteman thats why she treats me like......... she always try to speak in English always wrong words that make me confuse while she giving instruction.

[@eitanwaxman1862]

Hi, Did you to a TEFL course before going to teach in Japan?

[@eedom69]

Still looking for a course?

[@MaganoASMR]

Hi Candy.. Do ALTs get school holiday? And how many days of holiday do they get?

[@lebry19]

I'm not a teacher, i just finished 2 years course computer technician, do you think I can teach or apply in ALT? I'm a resident in Japan do you think i can work with them?

[@eldeee143]

Is it really needed to have this ALT certification to work as an ALT in Japan?

[@airabombay7780]

Hi Ms. Candy! Just wanna ask where did you get your tesol/tefl/esl certification? And is there a specific agency here in PH where i can apply for ALT post? Thanks in advancs! Stay Blessed.

[@roseperez3056]

hello po dpat po b let passer ako thanks more power

[@jhenyvabebulcase9121]

Hi Ma'am I just want to ask where did u get your tefl/tesol Certificate?

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

hey! I got mine online before coming to Japan :D

[@jaebummy2558]

btw what was your dispatch company

[@jastineericho1833]

How can going in japan? there's support the other people or agency you went for it.

[@johnchristianmagabo3739]

Maam, do you have a choice on what type of vehicle the agency will provide to you? Let us say that my drivers license is exclusively for driving motorcycle, will the agency provide a motorcycle instead of a car?

[@mommylu1737]

Hi Sensei. I want to work as ALT there in Japan. 🥰🙂What company you can recommend for me? Thank you!

[@dagzals5090]

Hi mam. What company do you recommend? can you comment the link please?

[@MoshyShop]

Are ALTs in Elementary schools suppose to be T2? What if teachers dont make LPs and just leave it all up to the ALT?

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

yup! Elem ALTs are supposed to be T2 now, but yeah, some HRTs are still not ready and need support

[@jerictigolo8353]

Thank you for making this video! I am planning to apply for 2022 JET program.😇

[@babejay06]

Hello! Just wanna know how did your interview go? Like, do you have tips on what and what not to do, say or wear? Did you had your interview in Japan? Thanks

[@candyinthelandofsushi]

Hello, I have a video about that in one of my videos (if you haven't seen it, please check it out) I also gave my tips there. I had my interview in the Philippines