Since 2016, I’ve worked for the Global English Camp program. I started as an intern and have stuck with the program ever since. As someone who interviews candidates for the Global English Camp program now, here are some answers to questions I’m often asked during interviews.

Why have you stuck with the Global English Camp program for so long?

Although the Global English Camp program has changed slightly over the years, two key things have stayed the same—both which I admire deeply.

The impact on the students.

The Global English Camp program curriculum is all about speaking and building confidence. Not reading and writing. Day by day, interns help students express their opinions in English, as well as help them think deeply about their life missions, or how they wish to contribute to the world someday. This program is a chance for students to express their passion in front of a crowd—perhaps for the first time—and to be cheered on, too.

The other interns you meet along the way.

The Global English Camp program brings hundreds of like-minded people together from across the world. Overall, our interns value the importance of education, the discussion of world issues, and travel. Because of this, I find it easy to forge long-lasting relationships with the staff and interns involved. I’ve met some of my closest friends during my years here. I’m so thankful I was able to meet them.

What were the positives and negatives you faced as an intern?

1. Positives were what I’ve listed above, as well as one other aspect: being an intern was my first chance at facing independence in another country. Of course, Come On Out - Japan provides interns with onboarding (welcome package, health and wellness package, various subsidies, housing, insurance, a thorough training week). But at the end of the day, you are the one who needs to navigate the trains, show up to work on time, remember your way home, and feel prepared for the next teaching day.

2. A negative was how exhausted I became due to the intensiveness of the program. But once I learned how to better manage my time and sleep schedule, this intensiveness became a positive, and I eventually loved dedicating my every day life to the program. It’s important not to go out every night and stay home to recuperate. There will always be another activity happening tomorrow!

Good luck!

Paige

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Written by Paige Goetz, Director of Communications