When did you decide to become a Japanese language teacher? And what were your reasons for doing so?
I had the experience of studying abroad in Canada when I was a university student, and at that time I participated in a Japanese language class at a university as a volunteer. At that time, a Japanese professor told me, "Why don't you become a teacher at a Japanese language school? I decided to become a Japanese language teacher because I wanted to make use of my experience as an international student.
What are the classes you are in charge of?
I teach a wide range of classes from beginner to advanced level. In addition, I also teach Business Japanese.
What do you enjoy and what do you find difficult about teaching Japanese?
ISI has students from many different countries with very different ways of thinking, so I often feel that mutual understanding is not easy, and I always have to think about how to teach them. However, there are moments when the only language we can share is Japanese, and when all the students smile, I feel happy to be teaching.
What is important to you when dealing with students?
I like to have fun, and most of all I try to give classes that make students smile. I also try to convey Japanese rules and the Japanese way of thinking so that students will not make mistakes in their daily life in Japan. Above all, I try not to forget the feeling of "growing together" rather than "teaching".
What is something that ISI Japanese language school has that other Japanese language schools do not have?
I have never worked at any school other than ISI, but I think ISI is a very multinational and bright school. Also, the Shibuya school is full of serious and cheerful students. The Shibuya school also has a career center, which provides a wide range of support such as resume writing, interview practice, and of course, employment counseling. I think the Shibuya school is a very good one for students who want to find a job in Japan.
What do you think is most important for international students when learning Japanese?
I also have experience as an international student, and I believe that the most important thing in learning a language is the will to "know how the other person feels and to convey the feelings you want to convey". Therefore, I would like you to remember you are studying Japanese in order to communicate and to achieve your own goals and objectives.
What kind of students would you like to see enrolled in the future?
We know that living away from one's home country can be discouraging, but we would love to have students who have a strong will to go chase their dreams. ISI will support such students 100%!
Lastly, a word to the international students
I think everyone is anxious about taking the plunge into a new world. However, once you take that first step, I believe you have a chance to make a big change. And the dreams you have will support you. We are waiting for you in the new world, so please jump in without worrying.
