Mechanical Engineering Student Gets Dream Job In Japan

Hoshimachi Suisei Inspired Mechanical Engineering Student’s Dreams of Japan 

As a mechanical engineering student, my studies are quite challenging, and one of the ways I unwind is watching shows after long study sessions. I watched the anime ‘Reborn!’ out of curiosity, and I was surprised by how enjoyable the anime was. I was hooked, and I ended up binge-watching all the episodes.  

Initially, I could only understand the conversations based on the subtitles. As I watched more anime, I began picking up phrases without checking the subtitles. It motivated me to look for other resources to improve my Japanese. I was scrolling through YouTube and came across a channel that streams using a virtual character called 星街すいせい (Hoshimachi Suisei). She talks about Japanese local life and culture, shares her opinions on trending topics, interacts with the chat, and shares interesting things during her livestreams. I feel like my Japanese improves with every livestream I watch.

Learning Japanese for Free with FAST OFFER International Program

I wanted to improve my Japanese further, so I enrolled in a Level 1 Japanese class for a semester to receive formal training in the language. While attending classes, I heard that ASIA to Japan will be hosting a seminar at my university. I registered for it without any hesitation, and soon, I realized that I had made a good decision to attend the seminar.  

We learned about the benefits of working in Japan, and that we could eventually secure a job there if we joined the FAST OFFER International program provided by ASIA to Japan. That’s when it hit me: why not turn my passion into a career and work in Japan? I already have the basics after all. Japan offers advanced technology, more opportunities, room to grow, and higher salaries. On top of that, the program is especially appealing because all the services are free. All we have to do is show up and attend the classes!  

I joined ASIA to Japan’s beginner class and learned grammar and vocabulary with other classmates. After two weeks of joining the beginner class, I was asked by the teacher whether I wanted to change to the intermediate class. I decided to do so, and it was pretty challenging for me to catch up at first. I put in more effort, and the learning journey is getting more and more exciting as I observe my improvement in different aspects. Finally, I could understand and read Japanese better! I knew I was getting closer to my career goal.  

Flying to Japan for the First Time as a Mechanical Engineering Student 

In November 2024, I was accepted into the FAST OFFER International Program. I was going to Japan for a job interview! I was so happy and nervous because it was my first time traveling abroad. There was so much to think about. I had to apply for a passport, attend the program’s free Japanese classes and mentoring sessions, prepare for the interview, research on the company, and prepare winter clothes. It was a busy but exciting time for me!  

Exploring Japan in My Free Time  

We arrived in Japan early in the evening, and I went for dinner with other interviewees. After that, I headed to an arcade or gēmusentā (ゲームセンター). I was so lucky to find the 星街すいせい (Hoshimachi Suisei) merchandise I’d been looking for! While shopping, I also got to speak with local Japanese people when asking for help or paying at the counter. I struggled a bit when they spoke too fast, so I asked them to repeat themselves, but practicing my skills outside the classroom was a great experience. 

While waiting for a job offer, in between interviews, I had free time to explore the city during this free trip from the FAST OFFER International Program. I visited the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where people walk toward you from eight different directions—it was such a surreal experience! I also went to Ginza and browsed through a few duty-free shops, traveling by electric train, which was convenient and fun.  

Getting A Job Offer After Facing Setbacks 

As a mechanical engineering student finding a job in Japan, I attended five interviews: three conducted online and two face-to-face. Both are stressful because you have to respond to the interviewers’ questions on the spot without referring to any materials. However, I can make better eye contact and interact with the interviewers during a physical interview.   

Despite several interview setbacks, I applied to more companies and attended more interviews. I just kept trying my best and never gave up. It was my family’s support that made this possible. They’ve supported my dream of landing a job in Japan. All my hard work and their support paid off when I finally got an offer from a company that interests me. It was such a great feeling to finally have your dreams come true after facing challenges.

Job Offer – Check! What’s Next? More Hoshimachi Suisei! Step? 

With just one semester left before graduation, I felt overwhelming relief after receiving a job offer! Now, I can fully concentrate on my final year project while continuing to sharpen my Japanese skills. Life in Japan will be much easier with better Japanese.  

To sharpen my Japanese, in my free time, I plan to stay immersed in the language by watching anime, tuning into livestreams, and browsing Japanese content on social media. I’ll stay tuned to Hoshimachi Suisei! Once my project is done, I’ll rejoin the Japanese class provided by the FAST OFFER International program to strengthen my proficiency further. I also aim to take the JLPT N3 exam at the end of the year. My journey with the Japanese language is far from over—it’s only just beginning. I can’t wait to see what’s in store! 

FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Interview Tips For Landing A Mechanical Engineering Job In Japan

1. Seek A Short-Term Internship

Not sure which mechanical engineering specialization to pursue in Japan? Seek an internship to understand what kind of work you’re drawn to. The right internship experience significantly boosts your chances of landing an interview with a Japanese company that matches your passion and skills. Whether it’s manufacturing, robotics, automotive, or other mechanical engineering expertise you’re interested in, your internship and final-year projects will play a role in what kind of companies you’ll attract.

2. Commit To Constantly Improving Your Japanese

Japanese proficiency is crucial for effectively expressing yourself and showcasing your capabilities during interviews. Some of our successful candidates found learning Japanese easier when they were having fun. Find Japanese movies, dramas, and anime that interest you — now, you can improve your skills while unwinding. Other ways to train your listening and reading skills include tuning in to livestreams and reading Japanese social media posts. Doing so can help you adapt to how native Japanese speakers speak.

3. Show Your Interest And Passion For The Company

Many Japanese companies appreciate candidates who convey a strong interest in the company. Do your research on the company’s profile, including its vision and mission, current and future plans, products, and services.  Highlight how you can contribute to the company and develop together.

4. Present Your Abilities With Confidence And Humility

Prepare to talk about everything in your resume and portfolio. This is great for demonstrating your knowledge and technical skills, such as mastery of specialized software. Be concise when answering questions and mention how your hard work and continuous effort led you to acquire expertise.

5. Dress To Impress

First impressions during job interviews can carry a lot of weight. To be safe, choose a professional, neat outfit and arrive well-groomed. Whether it’s a face-to-face or an online interview, you must convey professionalism through your attire.

6. Reach Out To Mentors For Assistance

Consult with your mentor from FAST OFFER International Program team if you have doubts. With your mentor’s help, you can nail down your self-introduction in Japanese, including the proper greeting and polite bowing. If you’re feeling nervous, you can practice answering interview questions in Japanese and run through possible scenarios that may come up during your job interview with your mentor.