JET Programme Series: On my way to Kobe - Melissa Heeralal
2022/2/1
JET Programme Series: On my way to Kobe - Melissa Heeralal
There is always the preconceived idea that by 30 years old you should have your life all figured out, especially your career of choice. For me, applying to the JET program at that age felt like that start of a whole new beginning that I needed. I have a BSc in Physics and an MBA, both from the University of the West Indies and it felt like succeeding in getting chosen had such a low probability since the JET program selects persons for the role of an Assistant Language teacher. I had no professional teaching experience and had work experience in the health sector. However, here I am, on my way to Kobe, Japan, ready to embrace a whole new culture.
This is a major part of the reason I applied to the JET program; cultural exchange. We are such a diverse country and to be able to share that with another culture as well as to be given the opportunity to learn, that is an experience that I would treasure. While the JET program is outside of my field of study, personal growth is very important to me. Becoming more culturally aware and as well as discovering my ability to adapt to a new environment are important in the development of my career path. No matter which direction I take after the JET program, I know that I am capable of doing anything.
My excitement for this time in Japan also has a recreational side. Japan has so much to offer for almost any interest one might have. As someone who has always been interested in gaming, one of the items on my list of "Things to do in Japan" is to visit Nintendo World in Osaka which happens to be not too far from Kobe! And we haven't even started on the food! I will always say that Trini food is my favourite but the chance to experience Japanese food at the source is a once in a lifetime opportunity. My goal is to learn how to make some of their cooking styles to bring home and share with anyone willing to learn.
This time in the JET program is going to be a whole new experience for me and I cannot wait to immerse myself in their culture.
JET Series: On my way to Kobe (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives
This is a major part of the reason I applied to the JET program; cultural exchange. We are such a diverse country and to be able to share that with another culture as well as to be given the opportunity to learn, that is an experience that I would treasure. While the JET program is outside of my field of study, personal growth is very important to me. Becoming more culturally aware and as well as discovering my ability to adapt to a new environment are important in the development of my career path. No matter which direction I take after the JET program, I know that I am capable of doing anything.
My excitement for this time in Japan also has a recreational side. Japan has so much to offer for almost any interest one might have. As someone who has always been interested in gaming, one of the items on my list of "Things to do in Japan" is to visit Nintendo World in Osaka which happens to be not too far from Kobe! And we haven't even started on the food! I will always say that Trini food is my favourite but the chance to experience Japanese food at the source is a once in a lifetime opportunity. My goal is to learn how to make some of their cooking styles to bring home and share with anyone willing to learn.
This time in the JET program is going to be a whole new experience for me and I cannot wait to immerse myself in their culture.
JET Series: On my way to Kobe (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives