JET Programme Series: Trini boy moves to the Oki Islands - Michael Simon
2021/12/7
JET Programme Series: Trini boy moves to the Oki Islands - Michael Simon
I am Michael Simon, a 29 year old young man who grew up in Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, where I have most of my fond memories. A short flight from Tobago to Trinidad sparked an interest in world travel and International Relations during my teen years. My interests never waned throughout my adolescence and influenced my decision to do a BSc. In Geographical Studies and Sustainable Development at the College of Science, Technology, and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT). After I completed my studies at COSTAATT, I read for my Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations at the University of the West Indies.
I applied to become an Assistant Language Teacher via the JET Programme because it is a great way to teach English and impart my Trinidadian culture while simultaneously learning the Japanese language and culture. I heard first-hand the great experiences of past JET participants, and I jumped at the opportunity to apply. I know that I can do well in Japan because of my interests in language and the desire to share my culture. I applied, and to my delight, my application was successful.
I was placed in Ama Town, Shimane Prefecture. Ama Town is on the island of Nakanoshima. I was elated when I found out that I was placed on this island because it reminds me of the Caribbean (small islands with beaches). Furthermore Nakanoshima is known as a Geo-park, being a Geography nerd, I think that my placement was perfect. Touring Nakanoshima, and the neighbouring islands is something that I am really looking forward to. Also, I want to travel to different parts of Japan to experience the local cultures.
My plan is to become a university lecturer and an ambassador. I think the opportunity in Japan will give me quality experience in both spheres. As an ALT I will gain experience in lesson planning, teaching, correction of assignments, living outside of my country, and intercultural exchange. My new found experiences will augur well in my future careers. I am really determined to do well as an ALT in Japan. I will give it my all and teach everything I know about English and my culture to the students, my peers, and the people around me. Representing Trinidad and Tobago will be a pleasure of mine. When I return to Trinidad and Tobago, I would love to influence others to apply for the JET programme and to learn more about Japanese culture.
I would like to thank the ambassador and the hard working staff at the Japanese Embassy for granting me this opportunity. I would also like to thank my Board of Education for the seamless transition from Trinidad and Tobago to Japan. I will forever be grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
JET Series: Trini boy moves to the Oki Islands (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives
I applied to become an Assistant Language Teacher via the JET Programme because it is a great way to teach English and impart my Trinidadian culture while simultaneously learning the Japanese language and culture. I heard first-hand the great experiences of past JET participants, and I jumped at the opportunity to apply. I know that I can do well in Japan because of my interests in language and the desire to share my culture. I applied, and to my delight, my application was successful.
I was placed in Ama Town, Shimane Prefecture. Ama Town is on the island of Nakanoshima. I was elated when I found out that I was placed on this island because it reminds me of the Caribbean (small islands with beaches). Furthermore Nakanoshima is known as a Geo-park, being a Geography nerd, I think that my placement was perfect. Touring Nakanoshima, and the neighbouring islands is something that I am really looking forward to. Also, I want to travel to different parts of Japan to experience the local cultures.
My plan is to become a university lecturer and an ambassador. I think the opportunity in Japan will give me quality experience in both spheres. As an ALT I will gain experience in lesson planning, teaching, correction of assignments, living outside of my country, and intercultural exchange. My new found experiences will augur well in my future careers. I am really determined to do well as an ALT in Japan. I will give it my all and teach everything I know about English and my culture to the students, my peers, and the people around me. Representing Trinidad and Tobago will be a pleasure of mine. When I return to Trinidad and Tobago, I would love to influence others to apply for the JET programme and to learn more about Japanese culture.
I would like to thank the ambassador and the hard working staff at the Japanese Embassy for granting me this opportunity. I would also like to thank my Board of Education for the seamless transition from Trinidad and Tobago to Japan. I will forever be grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
JET Series: Trini boy moves to the Oki Islands (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives