ALT Feature: Declan in Chiba

Why did you decide to move to Japan and become an ALT?

I have always wanted to visit Japan and experience new challenges. After graduating, I seen the position online and thought it looked extremely interesting! I have never looked back since.

What do you like about being an ALT?

I love communicating with students both in the classroom and corridors. I especially like teaching them cultural differences that they would never see in a textbook.

Tell us one of your highlight moments as an ALT.

This year I was able to take part in a camp aimed at improving disadvantaged kids lives through English. We spent 3 days doing numerous activities and games with kids of all age ranges. It was an eye opening and life changing experience for me.

What was difficult when you first came to Japan and started your job?

Understanding what the different mail and bills were for. Luckily, the company is a simple email away to help. I also used the camera feature on a popular translate app to figure it out for myself.

What do you like about Japan or living in Japan?

The people are extremely friendly and welcoming. I have had too many experiences to list of a Japanese person going out of their way to help me, even though they don’t know me.

Did anything about Japan catch you by surprise?

I was surprised by how often trains arrive and depart from stations. Back in Northern Ireland, if you miss a train, you will most definitely be late for work. In Japan, I just have to wait 4 to 5 minutes for the next train. No big deal.

What would you say is an absolute must-do or visit in Japan?

The northern Tohoku region is a must visit. It is an area of just pure nature surrounded by mountains and valleys. You should visit southern Iwate and go to Geibikei Gorge. Here you can ride in a boat along a koi filled river hand paddled by a local who will sing traditional songs. The gorge towers over the river as you ride.

Tell us about the city and region you are placed in.

I’m placed in the Matsudo branch, which is located in Chiba. It’s a fantastic area as it is both close to Tokyo and Narita Airport. The area also has a lot of scenic nature spots, which is nice when you want to escape the city hustle and bustle for a while.

If you were to recommend Interac to a friend, what would you say?

Interac is a well-established and well-run company. They will look out for you throughout the whole process. If you’re thinking of teaching in Japan, look nowhere else.

If you were to recommend becoming an ALT in Japan to a friend, what would you say?

It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. Teaching English is incredibly rewarding and Japan will welcome you with open arms regardless of your background. Take the leap.