| COUNTRY |
| India |
| EDUCATION |
| Bachelor in Computer Science, Savitribai Phune Pune University-Sinhgad Academy of Engineering |
| COMPANY |
| Responsible for the development and design of software and hardware for analytical, measuring, medical, aerospace, and industrial instruments and research departments |
| SUMMARY |
| An engineering student discovered his passion for Japan through free Japanese language classes. Inspired by Japanese work culture and values, he pursued a career in Japan. Despite the first setbacks, his determination led him to secure a software engineering job at a traditional Japanese company. His journey highlights the importance of perseverance, embracing failure, and finding meaningful work that aligns with personal values and talents. |
An Innocuous Beginning: Joining Japanese Classes For Free!
In my third year of taking my bachelor’s degree in engineering, I started studying Japanese just to learn something new. A fellow engineering student signed up for free Japanese language classes, so I thought I’d try, too. I didn’t expect that I would fall in love with Japan because of my classes, or that I would one day find the answer to my career woes in Japan.
Taking Advantage of Free Japanese Language Classes for Engineers
I was two weeks late to my first Japanese class because I didn’t know about it until then. Playing catch-up, my first month was a confusing whirlwind. They were already learning Kanji while I was still muddled in Hiragana and Katakana. Nonetheless, I persevered and enjoyed getting to know Japanese culture while at it. I was struck by how Japanese was a context-heavy language compared to English. It was like exploring a different way of processing life and learning Japanese.
My Japanese teacher then told me that if I wanted to continue classes for free, I should sign up with FAST OFFER International. All my classmates were signing up for a future in Japan, but I just wanted the freebie. So, I just enjoyed my classes without pressure. I loved the complexities of the language and learning more about Japanese culture and etiquette.
The Japanese were always punctual out of respect for everyone’s time. I was particularly drawn to their philosophies about work. The Japanese are extremely systematic because they’re homing in on making every step as purposeful as possible. With every decision, they’re asking, “Why?” This helps them produce excellent results in whatever industry.
My Goal is to Be an Engineer in Service of Others
I was drawn to Japanese work philosophies that grasped meaningful work for others. When I was younger, I joined an international organization called “The Art of Living.” Present in 158 countries, this organization teaches yoga, and meditation, but also spearheads projects helping disadvantaged indigenous tribes, and empowering women. One of the key core values in the organization was the importance of using your talent for others. It is by serving others that we can draw self-esteem and happiness.
As a budding engineer, I see technology as a way I can help people. I love how technology can solve difficult problems and change lives.
On top of that, I also loved the process of developing and building new things—which was just as important. My father, also an engineer, encouraged me to choose a career I can look forward to doing every day. He encouraged me to think beyond money, or titles, but to imagine myself more practically: what would I enjoy doing every day?
When my college helped place me for an Engineering software job in India, I felt satisfied. I was happy to work straight out of college. Doing the actual work and getting to practice everything I learned at the university, also gave me a sense of vindication. I was good at it, and I enjoyed it!
The Free Japanese Language Classes Led Me to Realize My Dream Engineering Career Might Is in Japan
In just 8 months working for that Indian company, I felt I’d learned so much. Every day, I was learning something new. I was more certain that this was the field I belonged to. However, it also started to become clear, that India might not be the best place for my interests and talents.
India’s tech industry is heavily tied up with other countries in a supporting role. The company I was working with mainly had me help companies repair or tweak their software but I wanted to do more. I wanted to have ownership of projects, and to build software from scratch. I craved more exciting opportunities where my talent could shine better.
It dawned on me then, that that kind of work opportunities, researching, designing, and building tech from scratch—I wouldn’t be able to find it in India, especially as a fresh graduate. I knew exactly where those kinds of opportunities were abundant.
Apart from being an innovative industry leader, Japan embodies values I hold close to mine. They prioritized others’ needs and saw value, meaning, and purpose in their work. These core beliefs make them incredibly meticulous. All things considered, I wanted to be part of the heights Japanese technology achieve.
If I wanted to make my dream come true of being an engineer who can maximize their talents to help others, I needed to be a software engineer in Japan! It was right under my nose all along! Thankfully, it was easy to figure out how to get a job in Japan as an Indian because I was already in touch with FAST OFFER International through the classes.
My Journey with FAST OFFER International Begins: The Next Steps After The Free Japanese Language Classes For Engineers
I quickly started my journey with FAST OFFER International as a job seeker. After I passed the mock interview with Hirameki Japanese language classes, I was scheduled for a casual interview with FAST OFFER International’s staff. In that casual conversation, they asked me about my job field preferences in Japan. They asked me what I expected from the job, and what I wanted. They used this information to match me with the right Japanese companies.
After a short while, I got interview opportunities for four companies, giving me a chance to fly to Japan!
My First Trip to Japan Looking For An Engineering Job: Making Use Of All The Lessons From Japanese Language Classes
Of those four companies, I had my eye on one specific company. I went to Japan extremely determined but also, very overwhelmed. The flight from India to Japan was eight hours long and I felt exhausted arriving in Japan. By the fourth day of the trip, I found out I hadn’t landed any of the companies—including my first choice company. I was heartbroken.
Later that night, my mentor called me to cheer me up. They told me I’d done nothing wrong. My Japanese was good getting to Japan in just one and a half years was already a big achievement. They told me there would be more opportunities and I’d be even more polished next time.
I guess my time practicing yoga and meditation came in handy then. I recentered myself and got back to the present. Instead of dwelling on the rejections, I realized the amazing opportunity I had at that moment. I still had two days in Japan! I got to fly to Japan, all for free! With nothing in my schedule, I had time to roam and enjoy the rest of the trip.
Seeing Japan Made Me More Determined!
As sad as it was not to land any of the four opportunities, that trip made me more determined to land a job in Japan. Walking around Japan, breathing their fresh air, eating their good food, and experiencing their hospitality: I saw a place where I could fit in and thrive.
I was certain that this was a place I could fit in. Seeing Japan made me so happy that at the end of the trip, I was 100% sure that I was going to get a job in Japan no matter what
Second Time’s a Charm!
Two Japanese companies wanted to interview me a few months later so I got to go to Japan again. My friends and I laughed at how lucky I was to travel to Japan for free twice in five months. This time, because I knew what to expect, I came in more confident and I did more company research.
Expressing how much I knew about the companies, and my passion for doing the related work made the biggest difference. I got to the second round of both companies.
After my final interview, I went back to my hotel to rest. I felt calm because I’d given it my best, no matter what happened. I was already in the hotel lobby when my career advisor rang my phone. He told me to come back to the office as we had something to talk about. That got me worried. Did I do something wrong? Wanting to gauge if it was good news, I asked if I should change into casual clothes.
“Make sure to keep your suit on!” my career advisor emphasized.
My heart leaped. I had a feeling what it was going to be. I ran back to the office and there, sat in a chair, I was told I landed a job offer with a great Japanese company. Awestruck, I had no words! My jaw dropped and I just kept saying thank you. It felt surreal. They captured the moment I got the job offer to work in Japan on camera!
Everything Worked Out Better Than Expected
Comparing my first choice company from the first round to the company I landed, I think it worked out better this way. I got a software role at a traditional Japanese company set up circa 1875. When I visited their branch in Kyoto and experienced their kindness and helpfulness, I felt so connected with them. I felt like I would fit better in this company, as if every day, I’d look forward to working with these people.
I remember getting four rejections during my first trip. It made me question everything, all the hard work I’d put in, every time someone told me I did a good job. I’m glad I got out of that feeling, picked myself up, and pushed harder. Now, everything’s better than I’d originally planned. Everything’s better in every way possible.
I celebrated the win by calling up my family. They were just as happy and speechless. They promised we’d celebrate when I got back. I couldn’t distract the other talents though, as they weren’t done with their interviews. So, on my own, after a rehearsal of my exciting independent future in Japan, I went to Ueno Park to munch on some gyoza while I absorbed the good news.
From Japanese Languages Classes To Becoming An Engineer in Japan
There are three things I’m most looking forward to in Japan. Number 1 on my to-do list is skiing in Hokkaido. It’s something I’ve never done. Number 2 is the actual work. I’ll be sharpening my skills as an Engineer and Japanese speaker—a challenge I’m embracing. I’m excited to work with Japanese colleagues to develop technology that makes a difference in people’s lives. Number 3 is the food! There are so many food options in Japan that I want to try.
Waiting for my joining date, I’m staying productive. I’m practicing my Japanese, hoping to get N2 before coming to Japan, as well as C++, the company’s choice software language.
Right now, I’m imagining a future where I set my roots down at my company, and take my time getting to know the ropes, until I too, can spearhead projects developing technology. As much as that’s what I have in my mind, I know, too, that life can surprise you. Things don’t always turn out the way you’d imagine. Knowing I’m molding that future in Japan, somewhere so ripe with opportunities and unlimited possibilities, I’m confident that no matter the pivot life takes, it’ll be great.
Message to Fellow Engineers Who Are in Japanese Language Classes
What I admire most about Japanese companies is that you’re allowed to fail. Failure is seen as normal and an opportunity for growth. Aspiring talents should take up this philosophy as early as their language-learning journey. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes as you learn. In the job-hunting journey, failures are just little detours that will make your eventual triumph much sweeter. If you treat every failure as a lesson to learn from, no effort will be wasted. So, just keep pushing forward!
FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: How Japanese Language Classes for Engineers Will Open Career Doors
Whether you are an aspiring engineer from India, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Egypt, South Korea, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, or beyond—you will find more exciting opportunities once you learn Japanese.
Here are some exciting ways learning Japanese can open up career doors for aspiring engineers:
- You can be part of research and development teams. If you dream of going beyond the manufacturing side and designing society-impacting technology, Japan is where you want to be.
- You will work with other top-notch international talent. Surrounding yourself with high-level peers will improve you as an engineer. In Japan, you get the cream of the crop from around the world. 29% of Japan’s 2 million international population are specialists[1]!
- You will grow as an engineer as you embody Japanese work philosophies. From kaizen, 5S, Wabisabi, to ikigai, Japan is known for work ethics. As you live and breathe Japan, you will adopt Japanese excellence in no time.
- You can apply to world-renowned Japanese tech giants. Some household names you probably grew up with such as YAMAHA, HONDA, MITSUBISH ELECTRIC, TOYOTA, SEGA, and PANASONIC, are all working with FAST OFFER International to fill job vacancies with international talents.
- The job market in Japan is ripe with opportunities for foreigners. Japan’s shrinking population and labor shortage[2], and their move toward globalization[3]—are just a few reasons fueling the international workforce growth. Your intimate knowledge of your mother country can be an asset to expanding Japanese companies.
- You will enjoy engineering feats in your everyday life. From the jaw-dropping Shinkansen, the disaster-proof architectural designs, the hi-tech hygienic toilets, and the clever button on a pudding cup—you will find tech marvels embedded into your daily life in Japan. You will have constant reminders of why you do what you do.
- International talents get strong labor protection. The Japanese government highly regulates labor both for local and international talents. You will enjoy rights as an international laborer in Japan regarding work hours, compensation, nondiscriminatory treatment, healthcare, rightful dismissal, and more.
Excited yet? Unlock engineering job opportunities in Japan by starting your Japanese language journey!
