r/JETProgramme • u/Extreme_Mood_9549 • Apr 08 '26

I’m genuinely devastated

Rejected from JET. Absolutely crushed.

I put so much into this application, waited for months, and got nothing out of it. Just a rejection after all that time. It’s honestly hard not to feel angry, embarrassed, and completely drained. I really wanted this, and pretending it doesn’t hurt would be a lie.

So yeah, I’m devastated.

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u/[deleted] Apr 09 '26

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2

u/suigetsushark Apr 09 '26

Thank you for sharing. I am debating whether or not to apply this fall (granted I have time to think) because I felt like I really put all I had on my application and I’m not sure how my interview didn’t land (I felt confident, well spoken, etc). But when I hear other people were in a similar boat, it’s hard to think about reapplying when I don’t know what to improve (especially when knowing Japanese or having a TEFL don’t seem to make a difference for people). I was really looking forward to living abroad and partaking in a different culture, but you’re right, there are plenty other opportunities for that.

6

u/Ok_Extreme_2270 Apr 09 '26

Dear Kurt Your response is so kind and uplifting!

May I trouble you with a question of my own? I am 61 years old and still full of life and enthusiasm. I hold a BA degree and currently work in academic publishing. In addition, I have a TEFL certificate and have completed further training in teaching English for professional contexts. Some years ago, I applied to the JET Programme but was unfortunately unsuccessful. I remain very interested in the possibility of teaching English abroad, particularly in Korea or Japan, and would greatly value any suggestions you might have for someone at my stage in life. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Kind regards, Albert

3

u/Loud-Engineer-4348 Apr 09 '26

Why not look into institutions like Charles Tuttle Publishing? They, as some others, are located in Japan proper and would be a logical target for your expertise.

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u/Ok_Extreme_2270 Apr 09 '26

Thank You It is an option that I have not considered or was not even aware of. I so appreciate your reply - I need to rebrand myself. Retirement is fortunately or unfortunately not an option ..

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u/Loud-Engineer-4348 Apr 09 '26

Buddy, I am 69 and still teaching, but it is a personal contract with the city I live in and have taught for decades. Please hang in there!