| COUNTRY |
| Ethiopia |
| EDUCATION |
| Master of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Control Systems), Ritsumeikan University |
| COMPANY |
| A supplier/manufacturer of industrial machinery, including construction and agricultural machinery, that leads the way to a more sustainable future and reduces/eliminates CO2 emissions. |
| SUMMARY |
| An international student who studied in Japan and fell in love with the country dreams of building his career there — but his biggest challenge is mastering the Japanese language. After discovering FAST OFFER, he finally found a path toward his goal. Following three months of intensive training and dedicated support from the FAST OFFER team, he successfully secured a job offer in Japan. |
Pursuing a Passion for Engineering in Japan
Growing up, my family hoped I would become a doctor, but my heart was never in medicine. Instead, I was drawn to the world of engineering. I admired the engineers in my home country of Ethiopia and saw the real value they brought to society. I also came to understand that the modern world is powered by electrical and mechanical systems, which revealed a clear path for building a meaningful and impactful career.
This realization inspired me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Electromechanical Engineering. After completing my undergraduate studies in Ethiopia, I sought to further develop my skills by studying abroad.
Japan quickly became my first choice, as it is a global leader in engineering and technological innovation. Determined to immerse myself in this environment, I applied for a government-sponsored scholarship and was selected as a research student at Okayama University, where I began my journey as an international student.
Although my time in Japan was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life, it also came with significant challenges. The journey was not always easy, but those struggles strengthened me and shaped the person I am today.
My International Student Life in Japan
My time in Okayama was deeply meaningful. Truly the best period of my life! I built lasting friendships and shared unforgettable experiences that broadened my perspective on the world. I was especially impressed by how safe and convenient life in Japan is. The exceptional public transportation system makes every corner of the country accessible, and the overall environment inspired me to become more disciplined, leading to a healthier and more active lifestyle.
During this time, I realized that Japan is the place where I want to build my career. However, my greatest challenge was the language barrier. When I first arrived, my Japanese proficiency was minimal — I was starting from zero. During the first six months of my studies, I dedicated myself to learning the basics and even enrolled in extracurricular classes to improve my language skills.
Despite these efforts, my Japanese was not yet strong enough to keep up with specialized courses in my major, which were taught entirely in Japanese at Okayama University. As a result, I transferred to Ritsumeikan University, where I could continue my studies through English-taught courses. At the same time, I needed to support myself financially while studying and learning Japanese. I worked several part-time jobs, including teaching English and working at an air-conditioner assembly factory.
While these experiences were valuable, they left me with limited time to fully focus on language study. I had found my dream workplace, yet I lacked the Japanese proficiency to truly belong there. It became clear that if I wanted to turn my dream into reality, I needed to find a more effective path forward.
How FAST OFFER Helped Me Reach My Dream to Secure a Job in Japan as an International Student
Realizing that I needed guidance to secure a job in Japan as an international student, I reached out to a friend who recommended the FAST OFFER international program. For the first time, I had a clear, structured path and a mentor to guide me forward.
Over three intensive months, my advisor provided constant support, pushing me to improve my communication skills and master effective interview strategies. When my instructor finally told me I was ready to move on to job interviews, it gave me a tremendous boost of confidence. The program taught me not only Japanese but also how to present myself professionally and succeed in a competitive interview environment. The interview process itself was a true test.
I was selected to interview with three different companies. Although the first two interviews did not result in an offer, I applied everything I had learned. On my third attempt, I finally succeeded! This achievement was not mine alone. It was made possible by the incredible support system that helped turn my dream of working in Japan into reality.
Achieving the Dream: Securing A Job In Japan As An International Student
The result came on the very same day as my final interview. By the end of the process, I received the official offer. It felt like a perfect match, a position that aligned with my aspirations in an environment where I truly felt at home.
Shortly afterward, I visited the company and was immediately impressed by its innovative spirit and the opportunity to learn from leaders in the field. Soon, I will begin working in Research and Development at a company specializing in hydraulic motors. I chose this role because of its strong potential for growth and the chance to develop my technical expertise continuously.
I am also thrilled with the location. The company is based in Kyoto, a city I deeply admire and look forward to exploring further. Japan has given me exactly what I was seeking: a safe and supportive environment, a fulfilling career, and a lifestyle that keeps me motivated. I am incredibly excited to begin this next chapter of my journey.
Next Chapter in My Journey
One of the first things I need to do now is find housing in Kyoto. Another priority is continuing my Japanese studies to further improve my language skills, which will allow me to work more effectively in a Japanese company. My next major goal is to pass JLPT N2.
Reflecting on my journey, I have learned that the key to overcoming the language barrier is consistency. If you stop practicing, you begin to forget. While kanji remains a significant challenge, discipline and daily practice are the only ways to truly master it. My journey, from knowing no Japanese in Okayama to securing a job in Japan as an international student, proves that with the right support and persistence, any barrier can be overcome.
FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Top 3 Things You Must Know As An International Student In Japan
Studying as an international student in Japan and looking to do some job hunting? Here are the top 3 tips you should know.
- You Can Do Part-Time Jobs While Being A Student!
- Your Japanese yen while in Japan can determine how much of Japan you can explore! Getting a part-time job can help with that and will be a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Just make sure you have a student working permit before looking for part-time jobs. Some student visas have this folded in, while some will require you to get a student permit through your university. You will then only be allowed to work a certain number of hours per month. Learn more through our guide about part-time jobs in Japan.
- Internships Are Optional, But Beneficial
- Japanese employers typically don’t think of internships as necessary. However, landing a paid internship with a start-up Japanese company will be a valuable experience for you in more ways than one. Learn more through our guide about internships in Japan.
- Signing Up with an Agency Can Help You Navigate the New Grad Recruitment System
- Whether you’re taking your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Japan, the best time to look for a job is in your final year before graduating. Japanese companies love new graduates! However, if you’re simply following the footsteps of your native Japanese classmates, you might find yourself competing with locals who speak Japanese fluently or going for a Japanese company not equipped with onboarding international talents. Signing up with an agency can help you circumvent those problems. Admittedly, not all agencies are made the same! Make sure you sign up with the right one suited to your profile.
- FAST OFFER International is free, specially designed for international talents, to tap into vetted companies keen for international talents, and assist candidates from start to finish. Check out our events page to see how we can help you.
