Can you tell us how you became a Japanese language teacher?
While studying abroad as a student, I had a class in which I taught my native language to my classmates. I played the role of teacher and taught Japanese, and for the first time I felt the depth and difficulty of the Japanese language and the joy of teaching it. It was then that I met a friend from the language school who was a former Japanese teacher. Through consulting with her, my desire to become a Japanese language teacher grew stronger, and after studying abroad, I began studying to become a Japanese language teacher.
Could you please tell me about the contents of your lessons?
Currently, I am teaching Advanced Level classes to students who are aiming to go on to higher education.
Since Kyoto School is also going to officially open a Top University Preparation Class in the future, in addition to the four skills development studies handled in the regular classes, we are offering classes to prepare students for the EJU and JLPT just prior to these exams, and at other times of the year, we are offering interview and exam preparation classes especially tailored to the needs of students preparing for university entrance exams.
Please tell us about the joy and pleasure of teaching Japanese?
When I see them talking about what we covered in class, putting it into actual conversation, or doing their best to write down what they studied in their assignments and homework, I am happy to think, "Oh! You have mastered the content."
I also feel relieved and happy at the same time when I see students report with a smile that they have passed the entrance exam of the school they have applied to.
Please tell us about the Kyoto School's academic guidance and support.
First, homeroom teachers conduct individual consultations with each student in their class and provide guidance tailored to their individual career path. At the same time, information is shared among the teachers to create an environment in which they can advise students from various perspectives. In addition, career guidance staff members are stationed at the school to provide career support in cooperation with homeroom teachers. We coordinate university and vocational school information sessions in the Kansai area, selecting schools that match the students' fields of interest.
Please tell us what you value in career guidance and how you can help students to go on (succeed) in their desired career paths, based on your past guidance experiences.
First, we ask students to tell us in detail what they want to do after graduating from the Japanese language school and what they are studying for. For example, in the case of a student who is aiming to go on to a university, we try to confirm together their vision for the future, what they need to study to achieve it, and which school is best suited for them to study at. What is important at that time is to have the students work on their own initiative. Teachers do not just teach one-way; students themselves should be able to gather information as well. Students who are able to move spontaneously seem to be more successful in their results.
What is the appeal of Kyoto School that other Japanese language schools do not have?
I think this is a place where not only homeroom teachers and students are close, but also faculty members other than homeroom teachers pay attention to each and every student. Perhaps this atmosphere is felt by the students, because the students who come to school every day have very cheerful expressions on their faces, and I feel that they must be enjoying coming to school.
Finally, a few words for the future students.
Many of you have been waiting for a long time to study and enter Japan. Thank you so much for not giving up and choosing to study in Japan.
All of us at Kyoto Campusl are waiting for you!
