From Doraemon to JLPT N2 Preparation for Life in Japan

Falling in Love with Japanese Culture: From Doraemon to a Deep Dive

It’s wild to think how far I’ve come since, as I’m not preparing for JLPT N2. My journey to working in Japan started long before I entered a classroom. As a child, I watched anime like Shin-chan and Doraemon, which were dubbed in my native language. At the time, I didn’t know they were originally from Japan. Still, I felt a strong attraction to their unique characters and storytelling. As I grew older and learned about the culture behind these shows, my curiosity turned into admiration. I became fascinated with the values of Japanese society, especially their dedication, kindness, punctuality, and love for perfection. 

When I entered university, I discovered that Japanese was an elective course. Without hesitation, I enrolled for the first class, which would prepare me for JLPT N5. I was among the few engineering students in the Japanese class, and balancing technical studies with a different language wasn’t always easy. Learning kanji was particularly challenging. At times, I felt overwhelmed. But I also found joy in small victories—being able to recognize characters, understand conversations in anime, or hold basic dialogues with my classmates. Slowly but surely, my Japanese improved, and so did my confidence. 

Strategies Useful for JLPT N5 to N2 Preparation

1. Use various language-learning apps.
2. Build flashcards for vocabulary.
3. Practice with native speakers online.
4. Have a study group with friends who share the same goal
5. Celebrate wins! Whether you recognize Japanese characters out in the world, follow anime with subtitles, or converse in Japanese, your progress deserves recognition!
6. Find fun ways to expose yourself to Japanese. In my study group, we often watched Japanese dramas or variety shows together and tried to imitate the dialogue.

FAST OFFER International: My Bridge to Innovative Japanese Engineering 

As an Electronics and Communication Engineering major, I was always interested in how technology could solve real-world problems. As a leader in advanced technology and innovation, Japan is the perfect place to apply my skills and grow professionally. I knew that working there would allow me to challenge myself and help me see things from a new cultural and technological perspective. 

During my third year, I spoke with some seniors who had joined Japanese companies through FAST OFFER International. Their experiences inspired me. They shared tips and stories of their interviews and even walked me through how the application process worked. One senior told me, “It’s not just about knowing Japanese. It’s about showing that you truly want to be part of their culture.” That advice stuck with me. 

With their encouragement, I applied. When I registered for FAST OFFER International, I was a bit nervous—unsure if I was good enough. But I reminded myself that I had worked hard to reach this point, and it was time to try. 

My First Online Japanese Job Interview

My first interview with a Japanese company was held online in January. I was very nervous because it was my first time speaking Japanese formally and professionally. I practiced for days, preparing my self-introduction and thinking about potential questions. Even so, I struggled in some parts of the interview. Afterward, I felt slightly disappointed, but I told myself it was a valuable experience. 

Getting a Second Chance: Flying to Japan for In-Person Interviews for Free

In February, I had the opportunity to travel to Japan through the FAST OFFER International program and attend three more interviews.

Being in Japan was surreal. Walking through the streets of Tokyo, seeing the trains run on time, and experiencing the culture firsthand was everything I had dreamed of. 

My Japanese Job Interview Experience

Not all interviews went well. One company rejected me, and I cried that evening. But I also learned something from each experience—how to listen more carefully, respond concisely, and show enthusiasm without overdoing it. I made notes, asked for feedback, and improved step by step. 

Then came the interview with the company that eventually offered me a job. It was a well-known manufacturer of bicycle components. I felt an immediate connection to their work, especially in e-bikes, which aligned with my studies. The interviewers were kind, professional, and curious about my background. I was able to answer their technical questions and share my passion sincerely. A few days later, I received the offer letter. I was overjoyed! I remember calling my family immediately and crying—this time, tears of happiness. 

Preparing for Life in Japan: Continuing My Japanese Studies with JLPT N2 Preparation

I’m preparing to move to Japan in October. I haven’t stopped studying Japanese just because I landed a job offer. Today, I’m in the middle of JLPT N2 exam preparation and improving my speaking skills. To improve my fluency, I practice with friends, watch Japanese YouTube channels, and even talk to myself in Japanese. I’m also studying Japanese business etiquette and culture, so I can adapt smoothly when I start working. 

I know there will be challenges—especially with communication and adjusting to a new environment—but I’m ready. My family has been incredibly supportive, even though I’ll be far from home. Their encouragement gives me the strength to move forward. 

Message to Future Applicants 

To anyone considering working in Japan: go for it. Don’t be afraid of the language. Yes, it’s hard. Kanji will frustrate you. Interviews may not go as planned. But every step is a chance to grow. Be honest about your goals, learn from your mistakes, and surround yourself with people who support your dream. 

Practice Japanese daily—not just reading and writing, but speaking and listening. Still, the interview process and the actual experience in Japan will test your speaking and listening skills. Watch shows, listen to podcasts, and have fun with them.

My most important advice is this: don’t let failure stop you. Keep going. If someone like me, who started from anime and struggled with kanji, can make it, so can you. 

FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Tips for JLPT N2 Preparation

The JLPT N2 Exam is a 155-minute exam comprising three sections:

• Vocabulary and Grammar
• Reading
• Listening

Free Essential Materials for JLPT N2 Preparation on the JLPT website:

• Shin Kanzen Master series (great for deep understanding)
• Sou Matome series (suitable for structured daily study)
• TRY! N2 (grammar-focused with reading practice)

Apps for JLPT N2 Vocabulary Preparation

• Anki
• WaniKani
• Torii

Prepare for Nuanced JLPT N2 Level Grammar

• Focus on similar-looking grammar that can be confusing. Make comparison charts to distinguish them.
• Read the entire sentence or paragraph before answering.
• Pay attention to tense, tone, and logical flow.

 JLPT N2 Level Reading Tips

• Read authentic materials: NHK Easy News, manga, blogs, or short stories.
• Practice skimming and scanning for key information.
• Time your reading speed
• Look for signal words (しかし, つまり, なぜなら) to understand the structure.
• Practice reading under time pressure—aim for 1–2 minutes per short passage, 5–7 for long ones.

 JLPT N2 Level Listening Tips

• Listen to JLPT N2 audio and native content (podcasts, dramas, YouTube).
• Practice shadowing (repeat after the speaker).
• Focus on understanding the intent, not just the words.
• N2 listening often tests implied meaning, not just facts.
• Practice identifying:
  • Speaker’s attitude or opinion
  • What action will be taken next
  • What is not said directly
• Use transcripts to review and shadow after listening.

Get Familiar With the JLPT N2 Exams Through Mock Tests & Reviewing

• Take full-length practice tests regularly.
• Review mistakes thoroughly—understand why you got it wrong.
• Track your progress with a study log or journal.
• Try mock exams from:
  • 日本語能力試験公式問題集
  • Kanzen Master Practice Tests
  • JLPT Sensei or JLPT Drills online
• Simulate real test conditions: no pausing, strict timing, no dictionary.

Preparation on the Day of Your JLPT N2 Exam

• On test day: skip hard questions and return later to avoid time traps.
• N2 is mentally demanding. Build stamina by doing complete sections in one sitting.
• Practice deep focus—no distractions for 30–60 minutes.