What inspired you to work for Coto Academy?
In all honesty, my initial approach to this internship was that I just wanted to be in Japan during my gap year. With that in mind, I decided that if I were going to Japan, I would also work there for experience and to bolster my resume. I got very lucky to be chosen to work at Coto, as the team dynamic here is one of the best I could have asked for, and the work I get to do entertains me and is quite enjoyable.
I can't say anything that inspired me to work here, as my resume was passed through a second-hand establishment, but I knew I wanted to work here after my interview with one of my team members, as Coto was the type of company I wanted to be a part of.
Streets of Tokyo
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favourite part of my job is being able to work with my team. Each member brings a certain amount of life and character to the team, which makes me want to get up in the morning because I know it'll be a good day.
I believe having an enjoyable work environment is one of the most important things, as stressful situations can often be solved just by leaning on your team and asking for help. And of course, it is a lot easier to do so when your team works fluidly and has chemistry.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I would tell myself to not be as nervous as I was before coming to Japan. Trust the process and get out of the house as much as you can.
Say yes to all opportunities coming your way, as you never know what they may lead to. And treasure every moment experienced, as you might never get the same opportunity again.
Osaka.
Why should someone choose Coto Academy over competitors?
I'll have to repeat myself, but as an employee at Coto and part of the marketing team, it would be the team dynamic. Not many work environments, ESPECIALLY in Japan, are as awesome as our marketing team. As a student for Coto, it would have to be our amazing staff, teachers, and the range of courses we provide.
Many other competitors only offer language courses, but here at Coto, we offer a range of language courses and difficulties ranging from varying ages (kids, teens, adults). We also offer trips within Tokyo for our students and staff, and we also offer culture courses along with our language courses. So take the hint and pick Coto.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our organization's goal as a whole would be to grow as an academy and gain as many new students as possible. For me, who is part of the marketing team, we have a crucial role in making that happen. I work towards this goal every day by spreading awareness of our academy through social media in hopes of attracting more students and growing our social media presence.
Spencer and friend having a fun afternoon.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope that they make the most out of it. Go out and experience everyday life as much as you can. Of course, do all the touristy stuff, but it's important to go beyond that.
Truly learn the culture, the food, the people, and the language. You can only do this by throwing yourself in the middle of it. You might be scared at first, but don't be. Who cares if you screw up? Just learn from it and have a good time.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures fosters understanding, empathy, and appreciation for diversity. It broadens your perspectives, challenges initial assumptions, and promotes personal growth. By immersing yourself in different ways of life, you can gain valuable experiences that enrich your worldview and promote global harmony.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Stunning photos are great, but the most precious things to me are the memories I create. It could be a fun conversation with a local, an adventure through the local streets and nature, or simply savouring a local dish. These are the moments that stay with me long after I return home, especially when they are experienced with the friends you made along the way.
