We Are Tomodachi Autumn 2017

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33participants was cancelled. I panicked, but my co-worker’s mother helped me change my ticket, took me to the station at five the next morning, and made sure I had breakfast. At times when I was sick, my co-workers brought food and snacks to my house out of pure kindness, without me asking at all. My work as a CIR includes interpretation, and translating things like notices for citizens and letters from ambassadors. I make sure JET participants are adapting well and living comfortably, and coordinate events that bring together JET participants and local people. I also visit schools to teach American History, and have students re-enact the Boston Tea Party, for example, to get the feel of the American Revolution.This job has taught me much about taking responsibility. Along with Japanese culture, I have also learned about Russian, Brazilian, New Zealand, South African and other cultures through interacting with JET participants. I have gained a lot of knowledge about Japan and a huge global perspective. My advice? Be willing to accept anything that comes to you, because something cool will happen. Things will turn out to be okay. My path from anime to Akita has given me precious understanding of the Japanese language and culture. When my term here is over, I plan to study engineering in Boston. I also hope to apply to work as a resident assistant at the school dormitory that houses female students from Japan. As a bridge across our countries, I want to return to others the hospitality I have so appreciated in Japan.Akita Pref.Akita CityTokyoAbout the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) ProgrammeThe Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme began in 1987 with the goal of promoting grass-roots international exchange between Japan and other nations, and is now one of the world’s largest international exchange programs. JET participants are placed in every region of Japan and work in one of three positions: assistant language teachers (ALTs), coordinators for international relations (CIRs), or sports exchange advisors (SEAs). In 2016, the JET Programme welcomed 4,952 participants, and currently there are approximately 62,000 alumni from 65 countries living in all parts of the world. The JET Programme official websitehttp://jetprogramme.org/en/Meeting with colleagues from the International Affairs Division.Official mascots of Akita, Sugitchi (left) and Ndatchi (right), welcome guests at the entrance of the prefectural office building.