JICE International Exchange Program

Ms. Acero Rosabella Mae, who visited Japan through the KAKEHASHI Project in 2018, is plannning to work as an ALT, Assistant Language Teacher in Japan.

―Why did you participate in the KAKEHASHI Project?

I am very interested in learning about Japan and Japanese culture and wanted to use my knowledge of Japan and Canada to bridge both countries.

―What do you think was the most impressive part in the KAKEHASHI Project? Please tell us in details about the good points of the program. If you noticed something that could be improved, please kindly inform us.

I really enjoyed the versatility of the KAKEHASHI Project. I was able to witness Japan in multiple perspectives such as political with the lecture we received, industrial when we visited the Panasonic museum, historical when we visited Hikone castle and through the homestay we were able to experience everyday Japanese life.

―What aspects of Japan did you find attractive while participating in the program? Did you find anything new about Japan?

I really enjoyed travelling to multiple prefectures in Japan, so I was able to see the different regions of Japan. While on the KAKEHASHI Project I learned a lot about the ninja and its history in Shiga prefecture.

―How was the support provided by JICE staff and coordinators during the program? Please tell us in details about the good points of their support. If you noticed something that could be improved, please kindly inform us.

The support from JICE was absolutely fantastic. Imazato Yoshiko-san was a wonderful guide who was very supportive, informative and helpful. She made Group B’s (Simon Fraser University) experience much more memorable with her leadership and guidance.

―Please tell us your career path after participating in KAKEHASHI Project. Do you think the participation influenced on your decision making of your career?

After I graduate from university this year, I intend to apply to the JET Programme. I believe the KAKEHASHI Project influenced my decision on wanting to apply to JET since I was able to witness so many different aspects of Japan and fall in love with the culture all over again.

―What kind of future plans do you have to work as a bridge between Japan and your home country?

I hope to work in Japan as a teacher once I graduate from university this year. I will apply for the JET Programme so I can experience life as a teacher in Japan. After the JET Programme, I intend to upload videos on my YouTube Channel to showcase my experience of living as a teacher in Japan and will continue to promote my experience during the KAKEHASHI Project.

―Please share us some advice towards future JICE exchange program participants and those who want to study abroad/work in Japan.

For all those interested in studying and working in Japan, the KAKEHASHI Project was the perfect way to be introduced to Japan and Japanese culture. I had an excellent experience with JICE and would recommend it to everyone. A piece of advice I could offer is to build connections with Japanese people and apply to Japanese organizations or exchange programs to get a better understanding of the people, language and culture.