Canadian ALT candidate from Ontario over here. I haven’t even had my interview yet lol so I shouldn’t get ahead of myself, but if I was offered an ALT contract would it be a bad idea to also tree plant in BC the three months prior to my departure? (Right after graduating uni—end of july). I wouldn’t have much time or energy to study Japanese bc wouldn’t have good wifi but I could potentially cram on days off and study from textbooks. Does this sound overly ambitious/Has anyone done this? I could make bank and save $ for JET but I do already have savings so that would be bonus. Treeplanting would be an intense and physically and mentally taxing experience. Also I have a bf lol and I’d be leaving him early and not be able to enjoy the summer with him (which is a big factor since we plan to breakup if and when I leave for Japan) also I’d forgo a Europe trip with my mother and sister in May :/
4 comments
The question is how much do you value that extra money compared to 3 months of experiences with your family and boyfriend? Idk exactly what treeplanting entails, but if it’s as taxing as you say it is, I wouldn’t do it. Once you’re in Japan you’re gonna miss these people more than you think you will.
So, while it could be done, I wouldn’t personally do it. Only you know how much these relationships and making memories with these people means to you, though. If you’re really wanting the money, get a part time job. You can build on/maintain your savings, and still have time to do fun things.
For me would mostly depend on how important the money is. Is it more important to you than spending the summer with your boyfriend, family and friends bearing in mind you’ll likely not see them in person for a fair while once you leave if you go.
First, many JET’s have little to no Japanese skill when they arrive. Its definitely helpful to have, but you don’t have to worry about it too much. And you can always study using books and flashcards rather than the internet.
Second, as others have said you’ll be passing up time to spend with your friends and family, who you won’t see for awhile once your in Japan.
If it were me I’d pass on a job like that thats gonna eat up your time, so long as you have the savings on hand to cover the initial expenses. I’m sure you could still find something part time to earn a little extra cash that gives you more free time.
Something to consider is that if you’re accepted, the three months leading up to departure are pretty busy as you need to sort out doctor’s appointments, medical tests, record checks, visa applications, etc.
I haven’t been tree planting but I know people who have. My understanding is that you spend most of your time either in the backcountry or hopping around between different small towns/cities in the interior.
While I don’t know that it would be impossible, I think it would be very difficult to manage pre-departure preparations while tree planting, on top of the other things you mentioned.