JET Programme Series: Onward To Kochi - Sean Siewsarran
2025/10/30
Where does one begin to verbalize or quantify an experience that is built upon many emotions?
Some would say it is simply a new chapter that is enunciated as an adventure. Others, may see this experience as an equation that is defined by uncertainty, rather than coefficients and variables. For me, what is certain, is that this equation cannot be solved by mere mathematics, but by the subjective experience of this new opportunity.
As they say, “The first step to a new journey is always the hardest”, and sure, it sounds cliché, but hey, it’s true. One thing I have learnt is not to dwell on tomorrow, but to be present of the moment and tomorrow will come. Just take the first step and eventually walk the path, and let the universe take care of the rest.
Are there elements of nervousness? Sure. But I firmly believe the universe has a reason for transplanting us into new soil – for us to grow and become better people. As I write this piece before my departure, I acknowledge that this growth does instill some degree of discomfort. Personally, this experience is a huge leap of faith, leaving the comfort of my sunny isle (though not so sunny anymore due to the constant downpour), to go to the other end of the globe by myself – if this isn’t trust in the universe, then I don’t know what is. But, on the other hand, it is through this leap that I was able to do something I love – teaching, and better yet, in a totally new country that presents a fresh culture to the limelight.
Upon thinking about it more, many elements of this unknown journey spark intrigue and excitement that far outweigh the fear that can sometimes paralyze us all. The more I continue to formulate my thoughts for this piece, it occurred to me that the people from Kochi have never interacted with someone from Trinidad before (at least to my knowledge). When you think about it, it’s pretty unique to be a “Cultural Specimen”, as they use you as a physical embodiment to encapsulate their opinion of a native English speaker. Not many people get to experience this sort of thing!
Speaking of Kochi, when I initially received the call about my placement, I admittedly had no idea where this was. Immediately upon research, I was stunned at the beauty Kochi has to offer – especially Kochi Castle. What was even more captivating, was the rural nature of this region, as I believe it would give me a chance to genuinely connect with the people. Personally, this is the most exciting and rewarding part of this journey, because it transcends a mere superficial trip and goes beyond the surface level.
To those reading this (this year’s applicants and onward), and to the many that has applied multiple times only to be faced with rejection, just know it is not yet your time – let the universe be the judge of that. Know that it is ok to fall on the first step and yes, it’s easy to get discouraged, but if you can truly acknowledge that this is really for you, the universe will pave the path forward. Get up, dust yourself off, and try again, and who knows, maybe I might see you in Kochi too.
Ganbatte!
JET Programme Series: Onward To Kochi - Sean Siewsarran (Japan Embassy's Facebook)
Some would say it is simply a new chapter that is enunciated as an adventure. Others, may see this experience as an equation that is defined by uncertainty, rather than coefficients and variables. For me, what is certain, is that this equation cannot be solved by mere mathematics, but by the subjective experience of this new opportunity.
As they say, “The first step to a new journey is always the hardest”, and sure, it sounds cliché, but hey, it’s true. One thing I have learnt is not to dwell on tomorrow, but to be present of the moment and tomorrow will come. Just take the first step and eventually walk the path, and let the universe take care of the rest.
Are there elements of nervousness? Sure. But I firmly believe the universe has a reason for transplanting us into new soil – for us to grow and become better people. As I write this piece before my departure, I acknowledge that this growth does instill some degree of discomfort. Personally, this experience is a huge leap of faith, leaving the comfort of my sunny isle (though not so sunny anymore due to the constant downpour), to go to the other end of the globe by myself – if this isn’t trust in the universe, then I don’t know what is. But, on the other hand, it is through this leap that I was able to do something I love – teaching, and better yet, in a totally new country that presents a fresh culture to the limelight.
Upon thinking about it more, many elements of this unknown journey spark intrigue and excitement that far outweigh the fear that can sometimes paralyze us all. The more I continue to formulate my thoughts for this piece, it occurred to me that the people from Kochi have never interacted with someone from Trinidad before (at least to my knowledge). When you think about it, it’s pretty unique to be a “Cultural Specimen”, as they use you as a physical embodiment to encapsulate their opinion of a native English speaker. Not many people get to experience this sort of thing!
Speaking of Kochi, when I initially received the call about my placement, I admittedly had no idea where this was. Immediately upon research, I was stunned at the beauty Kochi has to offer – especially Kochi Castle. What was even more captivating, was the rural nature of this region, as I believe it would give me a chance to genuinely connect with the people. Personally, this is the most exciting and rewarding part of this journey, because it transcends a mere superficial trip and goes beyond the surface level.
To those reading this (this year’s applicants and onward), and to the many that has applied multiple times only to be faced with rejection, just know it is not yet your time – let the universe be the judge of that. Know that it is ok to fall on the first step and yes, it’s easy to get discouraged, but if you can truly acknowledge that this is really for you, the universe will pave the path forward. Get up, dust yourself off, and try again, and who knows, maybe I might see you in Kochi too.
Ganbatte!
JET Programme Series: Onward To Kochi - Sean Siewsarran (Japan Embassy's Facebook)