So I applied to JET back in November, and, well, as the title says, I didn’t get in. However, I am still very much determined to get in next time. I only recently graduated with a bachelors degree, and well, I can’t say I have very stellar grades (GPA of 2.3). If I assumed my grades weren’t really the main factor in me not getting an interview spot and focused on finally getting a job (something I never had since I was a full time student) and volunteering a whole bunch (something I’ve never done) throughout this year, what are the chances of me getting a spot next time?
Feedback would be tremendously appreciated.
by 2cool4skool6900
7 comments
Your SOP will make or break your application.
It’s impossible to know for sure what knocked you down, but there have been many JETs over the years will less-than-stellar GPAs.
The JET application is more holistic than just ticking all the of boxes. It has gotten more competitive over the years and honestly, a lot of experiences people write about are nearly identical. Study abroad > Japanese major/minor > interest in Japan since childhood…
How do you stand out? What is unique about yourself? How will you hit all of the goals of the program.
Volunteering is definitely something you should focus on. A lot of people write about lofty ambitions while in Japan, but if you have zero to draw from that backs it up, it’s just empty words.
I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you this year. Keep your chin up and keep trying.
I got a 2:2 and average grade was barely a C. I got an interview. So don’t worry about your GPA.
There are many other factors to consider. I’m happy to look at your SOP if you would like some pointers.
If you really want to get in, actions speak louder than words. If you don’t know Japanese, take a class. If you have no experience, get some be it volunteer, teaching, work experience. Get involved with your local Japanese community, or any foreign community for that matter. Maybe you can get better references.
Show them that you are serious about this, and willing to work to improve, and adapt to your situations. And then show how those experiences make you a unique candidate in your SOP. What did you learn that you can translate to life in Japan, etc.
Having a good attitude about it is an excellent start, just make sure to follow through.
Happy to provide feedback if you want to send me your SOP
Knowing what I know about the grades of some JETs…I’m going to go out on a limb and say the GPA isn’t a big deal. I had over a 3.0, but I had a failing grade in Japanese of all things (I missed the final due to being hospitalized and my professor had no soul), didn’t explain WHY I failed Japanese, and still got in.
I honestly believe that a weak, average, or bland SOP and no demonstrated ability to survive on your own where there is a huge culture/language barrier are the big things that keep people from interviews. Especially the latter since SO many people say they can handle it, then get to their rural placement and bail within 2 months.
Happy to take a look at your SOP.