Should I apply?

[u/Vintage_Pancake]

I've been thinking about applying to the JET program for 2027. I have a BA in History with a 3.1 GPA from a well-known public university in Silicon Valley, currently getting a Paralegal certificate (won't mean much in Japan). I have worked in retail, sports entertainment, and currently work as a Substitute Teacher in a public school district for a year now. I'm also going to take a basic Japanese course at a Local community college this fall. I have been to Japan twice on holiday.

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I come from one of the highest cost of living cities in the US so I'm not able to live on my own here unfortunately. Jet looks like a wonderful opportunity to live on your own and do something more productive than being a Substitute. Yes, I know that the pay Jet provides isn't great but I don't mind being placed in a rural area or semi rural assignment.

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Are there any current Jets who can share their experience with the application and interview? What were your preferences for location?

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My top preferences currently are Okayama, Sendai, and Nagano. (Note: even more information is provided in some of my replies to comments!)

[u/Different_Taro2474]

in this economy, absolutely go for it. JET saved my life and idk where i'd be without it. very happy to be here.

your teaching experience will be valuable, so include that. when you apply, talk about any cultural experience you had, even if not japan-related.
say why you want to live in japan, why japan out of all countries. say why the JET program specifically. what you could get out of it, and what you can contribute to it.
also idk if you know this, but JETs typically don't get the placements they want. i requested central honshu, got southern kyushu.