My JET Journey

Well, I had thought that once the application process was over that the rest would be easy peasy. I.was.wrong. The process of ACCEPTING the JET position is just as complicated AND costly!

For one, I need to get a full certification of health, which involves a full on physical, urine test, and (the best part) a x-ray. Now, I don't exactly have the best health insurance right now so I really hope all this is covered! *cash register sound*

Next up are forms to the FBI and IRS. I need to request a FBI identification record (make sure I'm not a psycho criminal) and apply for a certificate of U.S. Residency in order to not pay taxes in Japan. BOTH forms require fees. *MORE cash register sounds*

I also have to provide 2 official passport photos (in addition to a copy of my actual passport). Ya, those aren't cheap. *EVEN MORE cash register sounds*

So apparently, police stations don't offer finger printing services (for my FBI I.D. record). Guess I'll have to go to a private agency! (my cash register is looking kinda empty)

All together I'm spending almost $100 accepting the JET position.

Am I still celebrating?!?

You bet I am! ;P Although this process is sometimes confusing, and ALWAYS stressful, the $100 will be worth it in the end.

That's all I have to update about for now!

Hello everyone!

I would like to announce that I have been accepted into the 2010 JET Program!

As many of you know I applied to the JET program last November. Since then, I have endured an interview process and the long wait until early April when it I would be notified if I was going to participate in this year's JET program.

For those who don't know, the JET Program (The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) is a Japanese government initiative that brings college (university) graduates—mostly native speakers of English—to Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) and Sports Education Advisors (SEAs) in real Japanese elementary, junior high and high schools, or as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) in local governments and boards of education.
(Thank You Wikipedia).

It is really just a chance for people to work in Japan as an English teacher (on e yearly contract) and experience all that Japan has to offer AND get paid :D Entering into this program is coming at a perfect time as I will be graduating with my Masters of Education in Teaching in May!

I have to admit, now that the moment is finally here, that I now KNOW I will be going to Japan for a year, I feel overwhelmed with gratitude. I never would have dreamed I'd be 23 years old with a Masters degree and a job in Japan! I never would have made it this far without the love and support of my family and friends :) Thank you to ALL who have been there for me over these past 23 years! It is because of YOU that I succeed <3 <3

BUT enough with the mushy stuff! Time to announce the purpose of this Blog!

I can't WAIT to experience Japan! For one, I have never been there before and it will be my first time living on my own (since that one semester of dorming in college which really doesn't count). I wanted to start a Blog because I want to share every single adventurous moment of this journey with my family and friends. I wish I could take ALL of you with me!! The best I can do is share pictures, pictures and more pictures along with hilarious stories I am sure I'll have daily. I bet you can guess what most of my pictures will be of ........ if you guessed FOOD you are correct :p

So remember to check back here for more exciting JET news as I get closer and closer to my leave date which is July 31, 2010.

Until then... Jaa mata ne!