Anisa Zoubeiri
Anisa Zouberi was a JET in Koriyama, Fukushima-ken, 2009-2011
My JET placement was in the city of Koriyama, and it was truly a joy to live and work there. The team of English language teachers I joined was exceptional—comprising individuals from around the world, many of whom I’m fortunate to still call friends today.
I was assigned to two middle schools in Koriyama, where I was warmly welcomed by the staff. I had the pleasure of working with bright, kind students, as we explored different cultures, languages, and interests. My role included a range of language instruction activities, international awareness days and I also contributed to regional English-language summer camps. These camps were a collaborative effort with other teachers and provided a fun, engaging environment for students to practice English through a variety of interactive activities. It was a privilege to be able to engage with students from across the community and foster their interest in languages and cultural exchange.
In addition to teaching, I enrolled in Japanese language classes and received tutorial lessons. The experience was both humbling and deeply enriching—it strengthened my abilities as an educator. I firmly believe that when teachers place themselves in the position of learners, especially as adults starting from scratch, it sharpens their sensitivity and enhances their instructional and engagement strategies.
Koriyama was a fantastic place to live. The local teaching community was very active in organizing weekend excursions to beaches, ski slopes, and hiking trails. National holidays gave me the opportunity to explore the wider country—from the awe-inspiring Hanami (cherry blossom season), to Taimatsu Akashi Fire Festival in Fukushima, to the enchanting Snow Festival in Hokkaido. One of my personal highlights during these travels was collecting the many unique regional KitKat flavors, each one reflecting the local character of its region. Japan is a truly remarkable country, offering rich and varied experiences across all four seasons.
Above all, the most rewarding aspect of my time on the JET Program has been hearing about former students. Learning that some students continued their English studies, both locally and internationally, is deeply gratifying. It has been an honor to support their language-learning journeys and to know that I may have helped inspire a lasting interest in international awareness and cross-cultural communication.
Initially, I had intended to return to Canada after completing the JET Program. However, my experience on JET opened my eyes to the incredible opportunities that come with working internationally. From language acquisition and cultural appreciation to travel and, most importantly, the development of meaningful and lasting friendships, the rewards have been immeasurable.
Following my time on the JET Program, I continued my educational journey by teaching middle school English in South Korea, high school French in Macau, and elementary school in the United Arab Emirates. I have been fortunate to work internationally for many years, which has allowed me to contribute to diverse learning communities while deepening my own understanding of a variety of cultures and languages.
The JET Program brings native English speakers into Japanese classrooms, offering students the chance to engage in cross-cultural exchange while strengthening their English language skills. At the same time, it provides participants with the invaluable opportunity to live and work in a new community, expanding their own cultural and linguistic horizons. Everyone I met through the program left with a deep respect for Japan—its language, customs, and culture.
Are you a JET alum with a story to share? Get in touch to be featured in an upcoming Senpai Spotlight.
