A big question we’re often asked is, “How do you make connections within your community as an ALT?” One of the most important things about being an ALT is putting yourself out there and becoming a part of the community, and we’d argue that it’s about 50% of the job! The first week or two in your placement can be a bit intimidating, so feel free to take things a bit slow when it comes to making these connections. With that said, here are some tips that might help you find a place in your community and make connections once you’ve settled in.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & CLUBS - Whether in or out of the schools you’ll be working at, getting involved with a club is a great way to meet new people. If you spend time with the clubs at schools you work at, not only will the kids get to enjoy spending time with you outside of English class, you’ll be able to make connections with the teachers in your schools that you otherwise might not have much time to speak with. On our end, joining a club at our schools led to easier access to social gatherings with smaller groups of teachers, and opportunities to form new connections. Along with this, it’s easy to find groups of adults that hold sporting events, or a group of people to work out with at the gym. Ask around and you’ll be sure to find something.
IZAKAYAS – Some of our fondest memories in Japan were spent inside of izakayas – informal bar/restaurants similar to a pub – and we’ve found that these are great places to make connections with the people in your community. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, there are some amazing food options, and the overall atmosphere and arrangements of these locations often provide easy access to socializing with others. Depending on the size and location of the izakaya, it can be easy to form a relationship with the owners if you become a regular.
ALT COMMUNITIES– While we think it’s important not to rely too much on the ALT community around you, especially if you plan on working on your Japanese proficiency, meeting up with the ALTs in your area can be a great way to form new connections, network, as well as workshop some ideas for the classroom. Most areas in Japan have a community of ALTs, as well as a group chat for them you can find online. In our experience, Facebook messenger has many groups to join depending on where you’ll be living, but Discord has become a growing platform for staying connected to other ALTs.
FESTIVALS AND TOWN EVENTS – Make sure to stay on top of what sort of events are going on around you. Getting involved with a festival or town event is a great way to show the community that you are excited about getting involved and making connections. If you’ve made connections with other ALTs, make sure to let them know what’s going on in your town as well.
At the end of the day, the best way to form relationships in Japan is to show the community that you are willing to get involved and learn. Remember, being an ALT isn’t just about teaching English, it’s also about cultural exchange and forming long-lasting connections. Get out there, be open to the culture, step out of your bubble, and embrace the unknown!