| COUNTRY |
| Egypt |
| EDUCATION |
| Bachelor in Computer Engineering, Nile University |
| COMPANY |
| a Japanese company specializing in the manufacturing of electrical discharge machines (EDM), metal 3D printers, and injection molding machines |
| SUMMARY |
| An Egyptian computer engineering student from Nile University embarked on an enriching journey to Japan, driven by his passion for the Japanese language which he began learning at sixteen. Supported by FAST OFFER International, he navigated the challenging job market in Japan, distinct from the competitive scene in Egypt. His efforts led him to many interviews, initially online, which provided valuable learning despite early rejections. His persistence paid off during a series of in-person interviews in Japan, culminating in a job offer from a company that valued his unique perspective and skills. Throughout his story, themes of resilience, cultural adaptation, and personal growth shine through, painting a vivid picture of his transition from a hopeful student to a professional ready to contribute internationally. |
Learning Japanese led me to dream of looking for Job opportunities in Japan for Egyptians
As a young Egyptian kid, I watched an episode in the 5th season of خواطر (“Reflections”) on television that talked about life in Japan. I found myself drawn, inspired, and curious. Later on, I got into anime which made me want to learn Japanese. My dad recommended that I take classes so I could also get certified
To enroll in Japanese classes, I needed a National ID—something you only get at 16. As soon as I was 16, I started my Japanese-language learning journey. I quickly loved the language. I began to even think in Japanese. It made my passing thought of going to Japan firm into wanting to live and work in Japan.
Taking Advantage of Job Opportunities in Japan for Egyptians through FAST OFFER International
A friend told me about FAST OFFER International and Japan’s many job opportunities for international tech and engineering Egyptian graduates. Japan’s surplus of opportunities compared to the local population gave way to companies keenly looking for talent abroad. In Egypt, the competition is extremely high as there are more Computer Science graduates than there are opportunities. I was excited about finding a job in Japan as an Egyptian.
Given that I was in my final year of Computer Engineering at Nile University, and I already had conversation-level Japanese, I felt like the right fit for the opportunity. As soon I signed up with them, I began job hunting at once.
FAST OFFER International led me to four online job interviews—all of which I failed. There was a feeling of disappointment, of course, but that was washed away with my gratitude. I was grateful for the learning opportunities about Japanese job interviews before I graduated. My experiences before were only with difficult job interviews for Egyptian internships. Thankfully, I wasn’t in a hurry because I had room to fail as an undergraduate.
From Cairo to Tokyo: An Egyptian’s In-Person Interview Experience
I was then told I could go to Japan in December but that was pushed back. I was so bummed that when I got another opportunity to fly to Japan in February for four in-person interviews, it took a long while to sink in. Afraid of disappointment, I was postponing my excitement. I only began processing what was really happening once FAST OFFER International bought flight tickets for me. So, I started getting ready: preparing at full force for each company, interviewing me and buying my sister a ticket so she could come with me.
Discovering Japan: First Impressions and Halal Dining Adventures
I met another Egyptian under FAST OFFER International at the airport. We hyped each other during that 13-hour flight. When we arrived at the airport, we were picked up by FAST OFFER International.
The first day was such a bright, sunny day. We rested a bit then ate at a Halal Japanese Ramen restaurant. That day set the tone for my expectations. When I was in Egypt, all the noodle dishes from Japanese and Chinese restaurants disappointed me. But the authentic, extremely delicious Halal ramen we got to eat in Japan restored my faith in Ramen.
It was a wonderful day just enjoying Japan—but to be honest, I was still in a state of disbelief. I couldn’t believe this was happening: that I was in Japan. I’ve wanted to go to Japan for so long and have seen its different landscapes in shows and anime that it felt unreal to see it in real life. Only the blue sky was the same in Egypt and Japan–everything else was different.
Turns out, that would be the only sunny day of our trip. Rain poured constantly for the next few days. This was fascinating to me. I loved the rain in Egypt because it was a rare occurrence. Rain was always refreshing and welcome. But Japan had rain in spades, and the torrential pour was so normal for people that with just an umbrella, life continued as usual as everyone hustled and bustled without missing a beat.
Exploring Technological Innovations During a Company Tour in Japan
The job interviews began the next day. I was nervous, but because of my experience with prior interviews, I know that I can be nervous and successful at the same time. The key is to trust in my preparations! So, one after the other, I had 40-minute interviews encompassing why I wanted to go to Japan, and my final year project. It was grueling. I was giving my all with each interview, so at the end of it, I was wiped out. That hard work paid off though as I passed all those interviews. I went for all the second round of interviews though, which covered similar questions but went steps deeper.
After the interviews, my sister and I visited fellow Egyptian family friends who’d settled in Japan. It was then that I answered a call that informed me one of the companies had a job offer for me. When I announced the news to the room, everyone was at once ecstatic, but I was still trying to absorb the good news. I was in shock.
Hindsight: Everything Worked Out Just in Time
Looking back, I only passed with one company. This didn’t disappoint me much as I knew I gave my all for all the companies I interviewed for. I had no regrets and I seriously felt lucky with whichever company decided to have me. I also believe that if you do your best at an interview but still get rejected, it doesn’t mean I’m lacking, but rather, that the company just saw that I may not have been the best fit for their specific needs. Because I did my best each time, I knew that each of those companies made their decision with all the important information they could possibly have. This means that this one company that decided to go with me saw that I would be a perfect fit.
Sadly, I may have pushed myself too hard. On the last day of the trip, I was starting to get a cold. I wasn’t symptomatic, but all the cold air from the past few tiring, rainy days translated into a lot of fatigue. I almost didn’t wake up for the company trip. Thankfully, I made it in time.
Company Tour Showed Off Their Diversity and Advanced Technology
My Final Year Project embraces my faith very strongly—as a study of the Muslim structures around Egypt. My faith is very important to me so during the interviews, I asked questions about the company’s accommodation for Muslim employees needing to pray within office hours. They shared with me that their other Muslim employees have been able to practice their faith in the company. During the company tour, I got to meet a group of Muslims who corroborated this. The only concession they’ve had to make was to prepare their own Halal-friendly office lunch as the canteen did not carry Halal food yet.
During this trip, I also got to see with my own eyes a lot of proprietary advanced technology. I was so blown away by the things I saw that I’d only ever heard of. It was inspired by the thought that soon enough, I’ll be part of the company that develops these astonishing products.
Overwhelmed, excited, but also dreadfully tired, I collapsed when I got back to the hotel. I was so grateful I had my sister with me who just brought me food. I was so tired I didn’t even get to attend the farewell party. I’m not too disappointed though, as I’ll surely be back!
Preparing for my life ahead
I still must finish college. When I get to Japan, one of my priorities will be to get a driver’s license so I can move freely around the country. Knowing there’s a lot of fellow Egyptian friends in Japan also brings me some comfort.
I want other Egyptians to know that this opportunity could be theirs as well. Start studying Japanese, get into the right degree, and you can try your luck at this amazing chance. You’ve got nothing to lose. Just try your best and let cards fall where they may.
Some Tips for Egyptians Who Want to Secure Job Opportunities in Japan
- Learn how to cook Halal Food. More Halal restaurants are popping up in Tokyo, but not quite enough to feed you every day. Learn to cook your favorite Egyptian dishes for yourself!
- Ask about your religious practices at the company interviews. Asking a question as particular as this shows that you’re seriously considering what it would be like to work with your company. Also, it will also help you decide if a company is good for you.
- Start learning Japanese as soon as you can! Learning Japanese is the biggest hurdle but once you get passed it, it will open doors for you.
- Sign up with a trusted agency. FAST OFFER International was able to find me so many vetted, trustworthy opportunities and really helped me in the process.
- Do your best so you don’t regret anything! Failing is part of most people’s journeys. The best way to skip the regrets is to make sure you do your best each time. When thinking of one’s failures, instead of seeing regrets, see lessons to learn from!
- Great preparations can override your nerves. Being nervous when going into something important is normal and expected. You can still be excellent even when you’re nervous if you trust the preparations you made.
Must see in Egypt: The Citadel of Cairo or Citadel of Saladin
Before you leave for that job opportunity in Japan, there’s something you need to do as an Egyptian!
My final year project featured different mosques around Egypt. Among the different mosques I visited, the castle of Salahuddin stood out the most. Strategically perched from a height, this castle offers a wonderful view of historical mosques dotting the sprawling ancient city of Cairo around it and a wide, magnificent expanse of blue sky. I’ve visited it about four or five times now and each time, I see something new. I even found a publicly accessible secret dark spot within the castle! I hope you get to find it too!
FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Job Opportunities in Japan for Egyptians
Japan offers a wealth of job opportunities for Egyptians, driven by its need for skilled international talent. With a growing number of foreign workers, Japan’s job market is becoming increasingly accessible to Egyptians. Key sectors include IT, engineering, and education, where Egyptians can leverage their expertise and experience.
One of the main attractions for Egyptians is Japan’s commitment to creating a supportive work environment. A lot of work places are working together with their muslim employees to accommodate their prayer requirements. Many Japanese companies are now more foreign-friendly, offering English-only departments and leniency with honorific speech. Additionally, the Japanese government has relaxed permanent residency requirements for highly skilled professionals, making it easier for Egyptians to settle long-term.
Moreover, Japan’s high standards of living, excellent public services, and safe environment make it an attractive destination for Egyptians seeking a better quality of life. With the right preparation and understanding of the Japanese job market, Egyptians can find rewarding career opportunities and thrive in Japan. You can read our comprehensive guide on jobs in Japan for Egyptians to know more..
