While I haven’t been here for long, I can already confidently say that the JET Program has helped me to find a home in Japan that I never knew existed. Going from studying abroad in Tokyo to living in the countryside in Shiga was something I was extremely nervous for. I knew I was going to stand out, especially after finding out that I would be the only ALT at the largest Junior Highschool in my area. However, when I got to Japan, I found that those nervous feelings were for nothing.
Never in my life would I have expected to be so welcomed by this wonderful, tight-knit community in Shiga. From the moment I got here I have been welcomed by my fellow teachers and students. They go out of their way to take me out to events, show me around the area, and make me feel welcomed. What I thought would only last for the first few weeks has continued in my past four months here, my co-workers always inviting me out and excited to show me more of the place they call home. I can already truly say I’ve found a second home with these people in the countryside of Shiga Prefecture, a family I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon!