JET Programme Series: Three Years on JET: An Unforgettable Journey - Roxcell John
2025/3/21
JET Programme Series: Three Years on JET: An Unforgettable Journey - Roxcell John
Wow, three years on the JET Programme have flown by! When I first arrived in Shimonoseki, even with the prior knowledge I garnered from my best friend, Natonya, I was very anxious for my first international destination—but looking back, it has been an incredible adventure. As an Assistant Language Teacher, I’ve had the chance to teach, learn, and laugh with so many amazing students, thus fostering cultural exchange between Japan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Seeing them grow in confidence and get excited about English has been the most rewarding part of my job. But let’s be honest—I've learned just as much from them (including some very creative uses of English that I’ll never forget!).
Living in Japan has been a rollercoaster of new experiences, and an adventure that extended far beyond the classroom, from tackling Japanese language mishaps, to immersing myself in Japanese traditions, festivals, and cuisine, and discovering my love of cafes, every moment has deepened my appreciation for this country. The warmth and kindness of the people in Shimonoseki have made this city feel like a second home, and I’ll always treasure the friendships I’ve made here. Whether it was a casual chat at the school, a deep conversation over yakitori, or a small gathering of my fellow ALTS, every moment has meant so much, and I will always cherish the friendships and connections I have built here.
As I get ready to pack up and head to Hiroshima in August, I’m excited for what’s next but also feeling nostalgic about leaving Shimonoseki behind. This journey has shaped me in ways I never imagined, giving me resilience, unforgettable memories, and a whole new perspective on the world. I remain committed to strengthening the bonds between Japan and the Caribbean, sharing the rich culture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, wherever I go.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the JET Programme, my students, colleagues, and the wider Japanese community for making every day special. Lastly, but very importantly, a huge thank you to my family and friends back home in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (and other parts of the world) for cheering me on from afar.
This isn’t goodbye—just see you later. I can’t wait to share more adventures with you all!
JET Programme Series: Three Years on JET: An Unforgetable Journey - Roxcell John (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives
Wow, three years on the JET Programme have flown by! When I first arrived in Shimonoseki, even with the prior knowledge I garnered from my best friend, Natonya, I was very anxious for my first international destination—but looking back, it has been an incredible adventure. As an Assistant Language Teacher, I’ve had the chance to teach, learn, and laugh with so many amazing students, thus fostering cultural exchange between Japan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Seeing them grow in confidence and get excited about English has been the most rewarding part of my job. But let’s be honest—I've learned just as much from them (including some very creative uses of English that I’ll never forget!).
Living in Japan has been a rollercoaster of new experiences, and an adventure that extended far beyond the classroom, from tackling Japanese language mishaps, to immersing myself in Japanese traditions, festivals, and cuisine, and discovering my love of cafes, every moment has deepened my appreciation for this country. The warmth and kindness of the people in Shimonoseki have made this city feel like a second home, and I’ll always treasure the friendships I’ve made here. Whether it was a casual chat at the school, a deep conversation over yakitori, or a small gathering of my fellow ALTS, every moment has meant so much, and I will always cherish the friendships and connections I have built here.
As I get ready to pack up and head to Hiroshima in August, I’m excited for what’s next but also feeling nostalgic about leaving Shimonoseki behind. This journey has shaped me in ways I never imagined, giving me resilience, unforgettable memories, and a whole new perspective on the world. I remain committed to strengthening the bonds between Japan and the Caribbean, sharing the rich culture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, wherever I go.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the JET Programme, my students, colleagues, and the wider Japanese community for making every day special. Lastly, but very importantly, a huge thank you to my family and friends back home in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (and other parts of the world) for cheering me on from afar.
This isn’t goodbye—just see you later. I can’t wait to share more adventures with you all!
JET Programme Series: Three Years on JET: An Unforgetable Journey - Roxcell John (Japanese Embassy's Facebook)
JET Programme Series Archives