Working Student in Japan to IT Company Office Worker Pipeline

Japanese’s Cute Intonation Sealed the Deal

My story begins after secondary school, as I entered college. Joining the faculty of languages, there were many options  to choose from. I could learn Korean, Chinese, Italian, French, and the like. Before choosing a language to specialize in, I did a little bit of research. I knew nothing about Japanese back then, not even the most basic arigatou nor sayonara. I did not even know about anime. Still, a few things drew me to the language. First, I felt that it was unique in Egypt. Not many people were pursuing Japanese, much less immersing themselves in it.  Second, was the culture itself. I found it very interesting. Third, was the qualities of the language. When I heard about the intonation, I liked it very much. I thought it was cute. 

Out of the several languages I could have majored in, I chose Japanese.  Thus began my story of perseverance despite the odds. 

The Origin of My Motivation to Succeed 

To welcome us new students to the Japanese Language Department, an orientation was held. The speaker mentioned that top performers would be bestowed the opportunity to go to Japan for a year as a 留学生 (exchange student) at the University of Tsukuba. This piqued my interest, and became my motivation to learn Japanese well, persevere for exceptional grades, and reach  a high level of Japanese. I wanted to see Japan myself and experience its culture firsthand. 

Complementing Japanese Classes With Self-Study

Getting a grasp on the language was difficult in the beginning. Japanese and Arabic are totally different. For instance, their grammar structures are complete opposites. At the time, even completing a whole sentence was a struggle because of this difference. Aside from speaking, I found writing to be challenging as well.  Learning all the characters from scratch, kanji was especially tricky and difficult to remember. In Arabic, we don’t have a writing system similar to kanji.  

Thus, this lack of prior knowledge of the language resulted in a challenging two years. To boost my chances of success, I studied every day. I made sure to listen well in lectures. When I got home, I studied by myself through reading 易しい (simple) Japanese, listening to Japanese podcasts and music, and scrolling through Japanese reels on social media. I even tried shadowing.  

To further supplement my learnings and immerse myself in the language, I attended in-person events organized by various institutions. For instance, thanks to our local Japan Foundation, I was able to participate in a tea ceremony and try my hand at 書道 (calligraphy).  My university also hosted annual  Japanese Culture Days, which I joined enthusiastically. There were various activities to try, such as singing, acting, and yukata-wearing. These events allowed me to immerse in the language and culture as much as a student living outside Japan could.  

Eventually, the two years flew by, and I was able to achieve my desired grades. All the hard work was worth it, because I became eligible for the exchange program!  

Summary of tips to learning Japanese as an Arabic speaker

1. Get in the habit of studying Japanese everyday
2. Listen well during lectures
3. Read Japanese
4. Try shadowing
5. Listen to Japanese podcasts and music
6. Build your SNS algorithm around Japanese content
7. Attend in-person events by your local Japan Foundation and university

Flying to Japan for the Exchange Program 

In my third year, I was able to travel to the University. This magical year in Japan made me decide once and for all that I wanted to live there.  

Though I did not have to pay tuition fees as I had a scholarship, I still somehow struggled with expenses because I was not able to secure funding for living expenses through Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO). So, I was faced with the challenge of having to excel in University while holding part-time jobs to cover my rent and expenses. At this point in time, I was also preparing to take the N2 level exam of the JLPT. I was faced with a difficult situation, yes, but  these overwhelming challenges did not deter me from having a great time in Japan. 

The Part-Time Job I Enjoyed 

I was a working student in Japan that experienced two part-time jobs; one at a fast food chain restaurant where I worked back of the house, and another at a well-known convenience store where I held a customer-facing role. While they both gave me firsthand experience of a Japanese 職場環境 (work environment), I enjoyed the latter more as it allowed me multiple opportunities to communicate with customers. 

At the convenience store, I was mainly stationed at the レジ (cash register). This was my best chance to talk with locals. I would typically hear the following:  

• “Where are you from?”  
• “I want to go to the pyramids!”  
• “You speak Japanese very well!”  

In a way, this cashier role refreshed me. Even if I was exhausted and overwhelmed with worries about studies, listening to customers and seeing them smile grounded me. These positive interactions made me think that everything was okay, and that I want to continue persevering for my dream. They solidified my desire to work and live in Japan long-term. It definitely helped that the owner of the convenience store was very kind as well, validating my positive image of the Japanese! 

These real-life conversations helped me, for the first time, understand them as people.  

Achieving a Healthy Balance as a Working Student in Japan 

It was undeniable that I faced an immense amount of pressure, having to balance working part-time, studying for university, and preparing for the JLPT. Fortunately, I found the time to blow off steam by doing enjoyable things during my free time. I would explore the streets of Tokyo and indulge in a hot bowl of ramen. I would even be able to visit Asakusa, Ginza, and many other places.  

Newfound Interest in Japan 

Eventually, the year passed, and it was time to go home.  

Getting to truly immerse in Japanese culture was a great experience. I liked how hard the Japanese worked, and how they were always on time. Most of all, I admired how much they valued respect.  I found Japanese people to be respectful all the time; on the train, in the streets, at work. It didn’t matter if they didn’t know you. On the train, they would not talk loudly. In the streets, they would keep their distance. At work, they would treat you as a colleague and value your time. I found myself wanting to partake in this culture.  

I was very sad that I had to return. In my mind and heart, I decided that I wanted to go back to Japan. I didn’t know when or how I would make that happen, but I was determined. One day, I decided to ask my friends. One of them referred me to FAST OFFER International. 

Meeting FAST OFFER International: A Path Back to Japan

That friend of mine had previously secured a job through FAST OFFER. He introduced me to FAST OFFER and his latest career advisor. He also told me about potential challenges I would face.  

Though this was an exciting opportunity, I was afraid. At first, I did not have the confidence to take on the challenge. I doubted whether I would be able to thrive in a large company in Japan. But, because of my desire to return to the country, I held onto my 覚悟 (determination) and applied.  

Fortunately, I passed the initial interview with FAST OFFER. My career advisor then showed me potential companies to apply to. She checked which ones fit me and allowed me to select based on my priorities and preferences. After a while, I received two separate interview requests.  

Overcoming the Challenge of Interview Preparation 

At the time I was very happy, but I was also confused. My anxieties were fueled by doubts about whether I could pass the interviews. I didn’t know how to convey that I wanted to work in Japan, why I wanted to work with them specifically, and the like. My career advisor helped me out a lot in this regard. She taught me how to do research, how to appropriately explain my 志望動機 (reason for application), and how to show them I am unique, among others. We worked hard together. Her advice, encouragement, and motivation made me want to pass even more. 

Still, it was not easy. Everyday, I had to check the companies’ websites for news. I was constantly staying up to date with the ongoings of the company to ensure that we had something fresh to talk about come the interview.  

Finally: The Online Japanese Job Interviews

Around the middle of May, I had my two interviews on the same day. They were held online.  

During the first few minutes, I was very afraid because I did not want to make mistakes in Japanese. Fortunately, as we went on with the interview, I found that most of the questions asked were ones I had already prepared for prior. I was able to answer with confidence, because I knew exactly what to say and what not to say. I was able to study the information of the company very well thanks to my career advisor. 

The next day, I had a second interview with one of the companies. A few hours later, I received the results.  

I was told that passing the first time was very rare, because it would have been your first interview in Japanese. It was normal to make mistakes and try again. That’s why I could not believe I passed. I was alone in my room when I received the fated email. When I learned that I succeeded, I cried. I told my mother the good news, and that I’d be going to Japan! 

Honestly, I still can’t believe it. I overthink about whether that pass was meant for me. Maybe they made a mistake, maybe I’d actually been rejected? Until now, I check the website to confirm that I passed. I’ve even signed the offer letter already, but it still hasn’t sunk in! 

Aiming to Get JLPT N1 Certified Before I Fly

I will be moving to Japan at the start of next year. It will be the beginning of a new chapter in my life. But before that, I aim to study for and pass the N1 level of JLPT. My second most important goal before the big move is fundraising. I plan to spend the next six months collecting funds to prepare for my new life in Japan. 

Once I do get to Japan, though, I am most looking forward to having onigiri again. The moment I arrive at Narita Airport, I will head straight to the convenience store and buy a tuna mayo onigiri. 

In terms of work, I aim to perform well during the first six months of my job. That would be a crucial time for me personally because it would be my training period for my new career in IT. I will make sure to take on this new challenge and do my best in the 研修 (training).  

Once I’m used to life in Japan, I look forward to visiting places outside of Tokyo, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Okinawa, and the Kyuushuu prefecture. 

My Advice for Challengers 

My first tip would be to have confidence during your interview. Do not be afraid. As long as you worked hard, you should be confident because this will help you make a good 印象 (impression) with the interviewer. 

My next tip would be to immerse yourself in Japanese as much as possible. Download Hello Talk and converse with natives. If you prefer to practice on your own, talk to yourself on the street. Talk in Japanese. Think in Japanese.  

Finally, and most importantly, do not give up. Even if you face many difficulties in learning the language, it is essential to stay motivated. As long as you persevere, you will eventually see results. You may not see them today, nor tomorrow, nor in a few months. It might even take you four years, like me.  

But struggle should not be a reason to be discouraged. Despite my personal struggles, I persevered and will soon reach my goal of returning to Japan. 

So stay hopeful and keep doing your best! 

FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Tips for Working Students in Japan

Being a working student in Japan is full of challenges, but can be so rewarding! Here are a few tips to maximize the experience:

1. You can look for paid internships with smaller, or start-up companies. Read more: How To Get Internships In Japan For International Student
2. Read more success stories of international students in Japan who eventually found full-time work through FAST OFFER International. Get inspired: Job Success Stories of Foreign Students in Japan
3. Here’s a guide on how to get a part-time job in Japan: How To Get A Part-Time Job In Japan
4. Make sure you consult with your university’s specialized department for international students. They may give you some rules and leads for part time job.
5. Jimoty is similar to Craigslist, where you can find a lot of people looking to dispose old but working items you may need.