Vy Chuong

Vy was an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Kochi Prefecture from 2016 to 2018, splitting her time between junior high and elementary schools. Today, she continues her passion for education in the UK as an Associate Project Manager at Nottingham Trent University. Here’s Vy looking back on her time in rural Japan, her career progression, and her advice for current JETs.

The Placement: Kochi Prefecture (2016–2018)

Looking back at my time teaching, I had many memorable moments:

Sharing lunch with elementary school students who were always eager to ask me personal questions, to which I deflected by challenging them to ask in English.

Receiving a hot canned coffee from my taxi driver on a chilly morning. This gesture of kindness is something that still warms my heart.

Hearing students sing the 'PPAP (Pen-Pinapple-Apple-Pen)' song relentlessly during the peak of the craze – it was the soundtrack for many JETs at the time.

Beyond the classroom, JET gave me the opportunity to form valuable connections and experience the Japanese countryside in unforgettable ways – from sipping a quiet cup of coffee in Yusuhara, a town nestled in the Shikoku mountains, to running the Ryoma Marathon (my first ever!) along Kochi’s stunning coastline.

The Post-JET Journey: From Shikoku to International Education

JET inspired me to continue seeking out new experiences. After my time in Japan, I pursued a Master’s in International Education Leadership and Policy in the UK. Following my studies, I returned to the US and worked as a Student Programmes Coordinator.

I now live in the UK, continuing my work in education as an Associate Project Manager at Nottingham Trent University. Without JET, I would not have made the leap to settle in another country, and it’s difficult to imagine my life without this experience.

Vy’s Sempai Advice: Lean Into Your Community

Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Japan is a wonderful place, but adjusting to a new culture is not always easy. You will need to push yourself outside of your comfort zone to truly get the most out of your experience. Lean into your community for support – whether that be fellow JETs or locals in your area. The more you invest in yourself and your experience, the more it will give back.

Are you a JET alum with a story to share? Get in touch to be featured in an upcoming Senpai Spotlight.