This is the first contribution from Cameron Cayer (Yamagata-ken, 2023-25). Originally from Rhode Island, then university in Washington, DC, he is currently taking the “long way home” through East, Southeast, and South Asia. Currently reporting from Flores, Indonesia.

Note: Here is a new Google Form for anyone who would like to submit their own response after reading this article, or for anyone who would like to share a reaction to this article.

The year 2025 has been one of major upheaval and change. There have been significant shifts in many US policies, massive government restructuring, and wide-ranging budget cuts budget changes. How have these changes impacted JETs and JET alumni? Earlier this year, JETwit reached out to the JET alumni community to conduct a survey to ask former JETs how, if at all, they have been affected. Nearly 100 JET alumni responded, and below is a summary of themes and some quotes from the responses.

The data undoubtedly reveals that U.S. federal budget cuts and policy shifts have created a climate of widespread anxiety and uncertainty among current and former JET Program participants. While the immediate effects vary, a clear pattern of professional and personal instability has emerged from the community’s responses.

Direct Professional Impact: Layoffs and Lost Opportunities

For many, the policy changes have resulted in direct job losses and a stalled career trajectory.

• Several federal contractors and government employees reported being laid off due to canceled contracts and the defunding of entire departments. One respondent noted, “All of our U.S. government partners have been fired or furloughed.”
• Non-profits and international organizations are also heavily impacted. One individual stated, “My agency has had grants canceled by our funders and our clients have had to cancel contracts with my team because their grants were rescinded.” This has led to staff restructures and layoffs.
• Academia and education have not been spared. Cuts to federal grants (e.g., NIH) have led to hiring freezes, rescinded job offers, and budget cuts. An art teacher expressed concern that their job would be eliminated, as “the arts are always the first to go when there’s a funding shortfall.”
• Opportunities for advanced education and career development have been significantly reduced. Several key international education programs, including Fulbright and the Critical Language Scholarship, have been halted or defunded. One person shared, “I have lost 2 internship opportunities this spring.”

Widespread Personal and Economic Disruption

Beyond professional impacts, survey responses indicated a potentiallyheavy personal toll on the JET community.

• There is a pervasive fear of a looming recession. One former JET who now owns a small business remarked, “The future is quite uncertain and my clientele are generally fearful and often ask if my prices will increase.” 
• Many are reconsidering their plans to return to the U.S. One respondent said, “I’m not going to be able to return to the US this year after all because I simply can’t get a job in the US.” Another person, still on JET, feels “trapped” but also grateful for their stable position in Japan.
• The stress of the political climate is a major concern. Individuals are experiencing increased anxiety. As one person put it, “The rhetoric of the current administration is rotten to the core.”

Impacts on Marginalized Communities

For some, the policy changes and political rhetoric are not just a matter of professional worry but a fundamental concern for their safety and well-being.

• Attacks on DEI initiatives and anti-immigrant rhetoric have created a climate of fear. A transgender person said, “I feel I have an added pressure to stay [in Japan] longer to stay safer and be able to access my hormones”.
• Many feel that their rights and safety are at risk. One respondent, a first-generation immigrant, shared their fear “of going back since I’m not sure what the current administration will do to me as a 1st generation immigrant who came to America as a child.”

Waiting and Seeing

It’s worth noting that some respondents indicated no direct effect as of the time of their response.

A Note of Optimism

Not all views were negative. Some respondents expressed a positive outlook on the policy changes.

• One individual felt that the government was “addressing the most basic, foundational matters relevant to every American” for the first time in their life. This person was happy with the new administration’s focus on reducing “bloated bureaucracy” and addressing the national debt.
• Another respondent expressed relief that there is now a “focus on economic growth again” to ensure job security and a reasonable cost of living.
• An individual who owns a business helping people relocate to Japan has seen a “huge spike in interest” from people looking to “go back to Japan,” which they found satisfying.
• One respondent noted that if the administration follows through on its promise to remove the foreign-earned income tax, it would be “extraordinary and the first time a president has enacted legislation that would immediately benefit my life.” 

For many, the experience of living abroad has even reshaped their perspective on what “home” truly means. As one respondent said, “It’s a country that I no longer recognize, leaving me feeling like an expat with no true ‘home.'” And as mentioned above, others are seriously considering staying in Japan, as they feel unsafe or unsure about returning to the U.S.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this survey! 

Comments or reactions to this article? Want to tell us how you’re doing or how 2025 has affected you? Please feel free to submit your comments through this Google Form. We plan to do a follow up article in the coming months that will include new responses. 

Melinda Kaneko (Saitama, 2011–2016) is a Digital Marketing and Content Localization Specialist who has been working with Kyoya Dye Works for two years. (By the way, if you would like to take part in a giveaway for some of their hand-dyed indigo fabrics, check out their website here.)

I was drawn to the JET Program to completely break out of my comfort zone and experience Japanese culture and language from an immersed perspective—not just from the anime and J-dramas I watched in college. Life in Japan was a constant adventure, and a humbling one at that. When communicating with my students and coworkers, what I wanted to say was not always what I ended up saying, and not always how I was heard. The reality of life through the lens of language and cultural differences challenged everything I thought I knew.

While navigating these challenges, I was fortunate to have an incredible support system within my Board of Education and among my fellow ALTs. We formed a tight-knit community, exploring the country, going to festivals, learning the art of tea ceremony, joining local cooking clubs, and even conquering Mt. Fuji—everyone needs to try it once, right?

The Universal Question

I struggled with the universal question every JET faces: what to do after the program ends? After five years, all I knew was that I didn’t want to leave. From the poetic “Engrish” on shop signs to the 1,000 sakura trees in my local park, to a Japanese family that would become my in-laws two years later—Japan had woven itself into my life in countless ways.

The easiest path would have been to continue teaching, but I yearned for a new challenge. I scrambled to find a creative job that would let me explore more of Japan, where I could speak English and Japanese, and that would allow me to grow and develop both personally and professionally.

Unexpected Career Path

At the very last minute, I stumbled upon my current company: a Japanese marketing agency that helped other Japanese businesses promote their products and services overseas. It was perfect. Our clients sell things that are uniquely Japanese, using traditional techniques that have been handed down for generations, ranging from hair products and shibui clothing to carpentry tools and washoku.

The proofreading skills I gained as a former ALT and graphic design skills I picked up for the AJET Connect Magazine were immediately useful. I quickly expanded them to include translation, SEO, copywriting, project management, and conducting user interviews for a variety of clients. It was the perfect fit—I could stay in Japan, be with the people I loved, and develop a completely new skill set.

Connecting with Culture Behind the Scenes

While my days as an ALT are over, my work still lets me live and breathe Japanese culture every day. My role as a translator and localization specialist is a continuation of the cultural ambassadorship we were all tasked with on JET. Just as I had to simplify and break down my experiences for my family back home who had never been to Japan, I now do the same for the brands I work with. Localization goes beyond direct translation—it’s about finding the perfect English phrases to capture the artisans’ spirit, passion, and rich history, making it all resonate with a global audience.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is the opportunity to connect directly with the customers themselves. During market research calls, I’ve had genuine conversations, especially with fellow JET alumni. We always get a little excited, briefly sharing stories and memories from our time in Japan. I’ve heard so many stories from people who feel a real connection to these pieces. One alum told me their Sappakama felt like a link to his past; the comfortable shape and shibui designs reminded him of time spent in traditional ryokan while on JET, enjoying the hot springs. Hearing him describe how a piece of clothing helps him stay connected to Japan makes my work feel less like a job and more like a way to help our community. It’s been so comforting to meet others who, like me, still long to stay connected to Japan.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sharing traditional Japanese crafts and products with the world. In these businesses—both large and small—there’s a sense of thoughtfulness for the end-user that you just don’t find in today’s fast-paced consumer culture. For example, some companies use older looms that take longer to weave fabric but result in pieces that last for decades and develop character over time. The hand-dyeing techniques Kyoya uses mean the indigo color won’t wash away as easily and has a truly unique pattern. Every step of the manufacturing process has a reason, every technique has a history, and every pattern carries a meaning. It feels good to help these businesses expand their outreach and connect with people who appreciate that same depth and lasting quality.

A Lifelong Commitment

When I first moved here, I saw my time as an adventure. But now that my kids are being raised here, Japan is home. My connection to the country has evolved from a temporary one to a lifelong commitment. This has made me think a lot about building bridges, not just for myself, but for my children. I want them to form deep, local connections here while also staying connected to the world abroad.

I’ve realized that’s the same kind of two-way connection I seek for the companies I work with. It’s not about them broadcasting their message at people; it’s about listening to their customers, sharing their stories, and making them feel like a part of the brand’s journey. That’s the kind of long-term relationship that truly matters.

Posted by: Margie Banin (Kochi-ken, 2005–2007), a former CIR with a love of the written word. Currently she connects others to Japan through translating, writing, and editing texts on Japan. Margie also manages the JETwit Bluesky account, serves as the JETwit Volunteer Coordinator and a JETwit jobs-list welcomer, and engages in various other JETwit outreach activities.

A number of books over the years have been written about the JET (and non-JET) teaching experience in Japan. JET alum Marshall Hughes (Tochigi-ken, 1990–1991; Ibaraki-ken, 1992–1995) has recently added to this genre with Rural Reflections: What 11 Years in Provincial Japan Taught Me. After his four-year JET experience, Hughes taught from 1996 to 2001 in Mitsukaido-shi, Ibaraki-ken, and for 25 years in Japan overall before retiring to Chiba in 2024.

Hughes’ book differs from others in that his book spans eleven years in four cities. He writes familiar stories of the typical ups and downs that all JETs had, but also gets personal with stories of student tragedies and other less-than-glamorous aspects of the JET, and Japan, life. Overall, the book takes a real look at sometimes hard-to-believe experiences with humor and interesting cultural/historical points tossed in.

Hughes says that when he became a JET in the early 1990s, foreigners in his area were “something to gawk at, follow around town on bicycles, and at times to consider less than human.” Still, his love for Japan never faded. In 2013, he returned for a visit to his first city, Yaita-shi in Tochigi-ken, and as he was walking back to his car from the main school where he had taught, he started crying. “A flood of memories came back to me of just how pure-hearted the people were there. Before I went to Yaita, I didn’t know any place on earth where people had such pure hearts.”

For former JETS, especially those from the early years of the program or who lived in rural areas, the book is a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Of Hughes’ book, author Evan Powell wrote, “In Rural Reflections, Hughes takes us with him on a journey into a rural Japanese culture with which most Americans are unfamiliar. Through his experiences as an English teacher in Japanese schools he encounters cultural differences that are at times charming, puzzling, and occasionally disturbing to typical American sensibilities. He provides us a unique window into a fascinating Japanese culture that we might not otherwise come to appreciate and experience. An utterly charming and engaging read!”

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Resolution Editor/Drafter
Posted by: Legislative Reference Bureau, Illinois General Assembly
Location: Springfield, Illinois, USA (onsite only)
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Laurel Williams (Nagasaki-ken, 2011-2016) for passing along the following job opening.

The Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) is a non-partisan legislative support services agency of the Illinois General Assembly with primary responsibility for providing assistance to General Assembly members in the preparation of bills, amendments, resolutions, and other legislative documents.

Persons who serve in editorial and drafting positions with the Resolution Team of the LRB predominantly focus on the preparation and review of resolutions, which may be congratulatory or memorial in nature or may address specific substantive concerns of General Assembly members. However, an Editor/Drafter also performs other duties, including providing proofreading and writing support for attorney groups as needed.

sparrosd@gmail.com

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Posted by: Margie Banin (Kochi, 2005-2007), a former CIR with a love of the written word. Currently she connects others to Japan through translating, writing, and editing texts on Japan. Margie also manages the JETwit Bluesky account, serves as the JETwit Volunteer Coordinator and a JETwit jobs-list welcomer, and engages in various other JETwit outreach activities.

Recently the Japan Society of Boston profiled JETwit founder Steven Horowitz in their “Meet JET Alumni” series. Learn about Steven’s experiences as an early JET program participant 1992-1994 in Kariya-shi, Aichi-ken, in his interview with JSB.

Read the full interview here:

https://www.japansocietyboston.org/post/steven-horowitz-aichi-1992-1994

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Educational Outreach and Promotions Specialist
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Torrance, CA, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

Are you interested in the educational field? Are you good at building relationships with new customers? As an educator, are you meticulous when choosing what learning tools to use? A Japanese Educational Organization is currently looking for a full time, Educational Outreach & Promotions Specialist to join their Torrance, CA location. (Part time, and contracting options are also available)

**For contracting positions, full remote is possible while attending the necessary locations when needed. This could also be done as a side job*

In this position, you would serve as the public face and key promoter of the online learning tools to the U.S. education community. You will be responsible for representing the company at events, visiting schools, and inspiring teachers and administrators to adopt our solutions. Are you a bilingual JET Alumni who’s looking to transition into something other than teaching, but stay in the education industry? Do you also have some experience in the American Educational System? That’s a big plus!

This could be a great opportunity for you! DOE and skills, the pay range for this position would be between the 62k-83k mark with great benefits.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Post by Steven Horowitz (Aichi-ken, Kariya-shi, 1992-94)

JET alum Paige Cognetti, who has served as the Mayor of Scranton, Pennsylvania since 2019, recently announced her campaign to run for Pennsylvania’s 8th congressional district in 2026.

Her announcement follows JET alum Taylor Wettach’s recent announcement to run for Congress in Iowa.

For more information about her, check out these links:

• Times Leader, “Scranton Mayor Cognetti announces campaign for Congress to ‘clean up corruption’”
• Politico: “Scranton mayor launches House campaign, goes after Rob Bresnahan’s stock trades“
• Wikipedia: “Paige Cognetti“
• Campaign page: “Paige for Scranton“

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A few more JET alums in politics!

• JET alum Vanessa Grossl, who was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives (District 88) in 2025 and attended the National Association of Japan America Societies (NAJAS) which was recently hosted in Lexington, KY.
• JETAA Northern California’s Ellen Kamei, who is the current mayor of Mountain View, CA; 
• JETAA Hawaii’s Nadine Nishioka who ran for State Representative in 2004;
• Brooklyn’s own Anthony Bianchi (Aichi-ken, 1987-89) who has served as a City Councilman in Aichi-ken, Inuyama-shi for many years and made headlines as the first North American to hold elected office in Japan.
• Virginia Second District Representative (and JET alum) Jen Kiggans, who recently spoke about her formative time on JET during a Virginia reception held at the Japanese Ambassador’s Residence.
• Nashville District 17 Council Member Terry Vo, who has generously volunteered for a JETAADC career panel in the past in addition to previously serving as an officer for Music City JETAA.
• JET alum Kyle Schlachter (Kyoto) is the mayor of Littleton, Colorado (incidentally, where US JETAA Executive Director Jessyca Livingston also lives!)

Ganbatte Paige-san!

If I missed any other JET alums in politics of note, feel free to email me at stevenwaseda [at] jetwit dot com!

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Coordinator of Member Engagement
Posted by: U.S.-Japan Council
Location: Washington, D.C., USA/Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the U.S.-Japan Council for passing along the following job opening.

About the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC)
Founded by Japanese Americans, the U.S.-Japan Council is the premier organization dedicated to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through people-to-people connections.

From high school classrooms to corporate boardrooms, from college lecture halls to the halls of government, we develop and connect leaders from every sector committed to a strong and enduring global partnership.

Through our transformative leadership initiatives, innovative exchange programs, and impactful in-person and virtual events, we bring together leaders at every level to address key bilateral issues. Our community of members across the United States and Japan is a vibrant and diverse professional and personal network. It fosters deep connections and opportunities to make meaningful contributions.

Position Overview
The Coordinator of Member Engagement will have primary responsibility for the administrative and operational support of activities relating to the engagement of members, including membership and regional activities. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization while engaging with leaders across the United States and Japan.

sparrosd@gmail.com

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Inside Sales
Posted by: Quick USA
Location: Southlake, TX, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Carlos Medina (Oita, 2019-2022) for passing along the following job opening.

A Japanese Manufacturing Company is currently looking for a full time, Salesperson to join their Southlake, TX location.

The company is seeking a motivated Sales professional with a strong understanding of radio-controlled products, including cars, buggies, trucks, and boats. The ideal candidate will have sales experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment.

Your essential duties would be as follows:
Essential Duties
• Maintain a deep understanding of our product lines
• Participate in training sessions, meetings, and provide product feedback
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends and developments
• Build strong communication with customers and team members
• Work independently with a results-driven and positive attitude

Please consider the following qualifications:
• Minimum 1 year of sales experience or related role
• Knowledge of radio-controlled cars, buggies, trucks, and boats
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Strong work ethic and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Application Process: To apply, please send your resume to carlos[at]919usa[dot]com

By JQ magazine editor Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02). Justin has written about Japanese arts and entertainment for JETAA since 2005. For more of his articles, click here. 

As the summer winds fade into fall colors, the weeks ahead are shaping up with these exciting events, ready to be enjoyed after Labor Day.

This month’s highlights include:

Opens Friday, September 5

LINDA LINDA LINDA 4K

IFC Center, 323 Sixth Avenue

$15, $18

LINDA LINDA LINDA is an effervescent, tenderhearted snapshot of youth about the unparalleled joy of jamming out with your friends. The soundtrack fuses bangers from iconic Japanese bands The Blue Hearts and Base Ball Bear with original music composed by James Iha of the Smashing Pumpkins. The beloved classic from Nobuhiro Yamashita (Ghost Cat Anzu) has been called one of the greatest Japanese films of the 21st century (Indiewire). In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the utterly charming and timeless classic returns with an all-new 4K restoration! For Kei, Kyoko, and Nozomi, their dream of playing the final high school concert together is dashed when their lead vocalist quits the band. Desperate, they recruit the very first person they see: Korean exchange student Son, played by Doona Bae (The Host, Broker), whose comprehension of Japanese is limited at best. It’s a race against time as the group struggles to learn three songs in three days for the festival’s rock concert. Also starring Aki Maeda (Battle Royale), Yu Kashii (Death Note), and Shiori Sekine (of the hit band Base Ball Bear).

September 6-7

Sushi-Con

Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street

$150 general admission, $200 VIP admission

The biggest sushi expo in the U.S. returns! Indulge in unlimited tastings of the freshest seafood, meats, sushi, and more, including the world’s finest-grade bluefin tuna, yellowtail, sea bream, salmon, sea urchin, wagyu beef, and much more! Globally renowned exhibitors from True World Foods, a pioneer in the seafood industry for over 40 years, will showcase the finest seafood purveyors from around the world. This year’s enhanced event will feature top-tier restaurants from New York and New Jersey. Watch an iconic tuna cutting demonstration and experience the incredible process as executive chefs expertly slice a giant 400-pound bluefin tuna, presenting the freshest premium tuna right in front of you!

Opens Thursday, September 11

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

Various theaters

Various prices

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, the first feature film in the three-part cinematic trilogy, will come to theatres including Imax and premium large formats. This latest theatrical feature film in the epic saga is set in the same universe as the 2020 global phenomenon Demon Slayer: Mugen Train, which earned $507 million worldwide and remains the highest-grossing movie of all time. As the Demon Slayer Corps members and Hashira engaged in a group strength training program, the Hashira Training, in preparation for the forthcoming battle against the demons, Muzan Kibutsuji appears at the Ubuyashiki Mansion. With the head of the Demon Corps in danger, Tanjiro and the Hashira rush to the headquarters but are plunged into a deep descent to a mysterious space by the hands of Muzan Kibutsuji. The destination of where Tanjiro and Demon Slayer Corps have fallen is the demons’ stronghold – the Infinity Castle. And so, the battleground is set as the final battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and the demons ignites!

Read More

By Chang-Hyun Choi for JQ magazine. Photos courtesy of COVER Corp.

Last week hololive production returned to New York City, featuring showcases of their world-renowned virtual talents or “vtubers,” who combine VR/AR technologies with a wide range of online and in-person experiences, such as streaming, music, fan meetings, concerts, and much more.  

In NYC, these vtubers captivated thousands of fans with their hololive English 3rd Concert -All for One- at the historic Radio City Music Hall on August 23 and 24, along with the hololive STAGE World Tour ’25 -Synchronize!- at the Javits Center as part of Anime NYC, the East Coast’s largest anime convention, on August 22. In addition, various interactive experiences were held as part of hololive Meet throughout that weekend, combining unique fan meetings and karaoke with virtual visits from hololive vtubers from across the world. The fans arrived in the city equipped with merch promoting their favorite talents, ready to show off their passion by cheering loudly and waving their penlights at these events.    

In this exclusive interview, JQ had a special opportunity to chat with Takanashi Kiara, an idol phoenix vtuber of hololive English and one of the pioneers of the English vtubing world. She shared with us her thoughts and impressions about performing at the hololive English 3rd Concert -All for One-, along with her experiences in NYC with other hololive members.  

We really appreciate this opportunity to speak with you. First could you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi, I’m Takanashi Kiara, from hololive English -Myth-, which is the first generation. Together with four of my colleagues at the time, we basically created the branch, hololive English. I’m from Austria actually, in Europe–not Australia, very important to note that. I was born and raised in Austria, so I speak German, but there’s no German branch so I’m in the English branch. I also speak fluent Japanese because I lived in Japan for a while, so people know me as, like, the multilingual, talkative, dancing entertainer that I am. And I really like to also do a lot of fun streams and bangin’ music. So, check it out!

This weekend was the hololive English 3rd concert All for One. For you, this wasn’t your first time performing at such a concert. In fact, you’ve performed at all three of them. What was your impression of All for One as a veteran of these hololive English concerts?

Well first of all, it was really awesome to come back to New York because I really enjoyed my time here last time. And then last time we already had a great venue but this time the venue was even bigger, even more legendary and well-known. Personally, being from Austria, I don’t really know many venues here but even I have heard of and have seen the Radio City Music Hall. So, it’s actually quite the honor to be there and something I will probably forever be able to show to my friends and my family and be like, “Look where I was standing in front of this ocean of fans that have so much love and passion for us!” It’s just amazing seeing the passion every time and they’re all such a great crowd, so supportive, and this time I could share the stage with Justice, our new generation. It was their first time and it was so cute and lovely to see them, see their excitement. They were really nervous and it was also super cute to see, but then they did their best and gave it their all and I feel like a very proud parent. It’s kinda tacky or cheesy to say that, but a lot of things have happened over the past five years, so with all the change that’s been going on and I’m not going to lie, certainly things that make me feel a little bit lonely or sad, seeing some of my gen mates not being on stage with us anymore, compared to last year. Last year Myth was still standing there with five people and now we were only standing there with three people. But I definitely got cheered up and motivated thanks to the energy of not just Justice, but my kohai in general, so I’m really grateful for that. It’s giving me new life basically, new energy.

On the note of seeing Justice perform for the first time, you’ve also seen the other generations of hololive English debut on the big stage. Can you comment on any differences in seeing Justice here compared to those previous experiences?

I have to say Justice is so unique, they have such great charms, they’re so funny, they’re such great entertainers. The things they bring to the table are just endless, like seeing Elizabeth belt out notes that are like…her voice, her voice is the voice of a century I would say. It’s mind-blowing to me that such a talent is on stage with me together and I feel honored to be with her there, too. And also all the other members too, like Cecilia suddenly bringing out her violin and stuff. That was magical and beautiful, and fascinating. And then Gigi with her incredible energy that never ends and her charm, her wit. She’s just such a great comedian and she acknowledges that, too. And Raora’s the cutest cat ever. I’ve been spending a lot of time with her backstage and bonding so much with her. I feel like we get along so well because we’re both culturally from the same area and I can really feel that connection. I hope that people can feel that charm and that unique personality from her as much as I do.

So, it’s incredible and I’ve been saying this these past days, but I am so glad that hololive or also vtubing in general can give such talents that maybe might be overlooked otherwise, a stage to shine on and a place to be in. And I feel the same way for me, like I’m really glad that I got such a great opportunity. I was really lucky to join hololive in a time where the world was scrambling and it changed my whole life. And this seems to have also changed the lives of my kohai and I’m really, really happy to see them succeed like that.

Read More

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Senior Director, Alumni Relations
Posted by: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Location: Bronx, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine for passing along the following job opening.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Einstein Donor Outreach, Communications, & Alumni Relations (AVP), the Senior Director of Alumni Relations (Senior Director) plays a key role in expanding existing alumni programs and leading the implementation of innovative initiatives that further foster engagement and affinity among the 11,000 Einstein alumni of all programs including MD, MSTP, PhD, and MS. The incumbent also will manage communications with alumni from each of the described programs above.

The Senior Director collaborates strategically with internal partners across the development team including special events, annual giving, external relations, data services/operations, frontline fundraising staff and other campus partners to advance alumni engagement and fundraising goals. Moreover, this role is critical in supporting the College of Medicine’s overall alumni fundraising efforts, and the Senior Director must be comfortable and conversant with standard practices in annual, planned, and major giving.

The incumbent will also work closely with the Alumni Association Board of Governors and its subcommittees to help foster strategic engagement opportunities. The Director will supervise 1.5 alumni relations professionals.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4289705315/

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Assistant Director of Study Abroad
Posted by: SUNY Cortland
Location: Cortland, NY, USA
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Mike Foki (Ibaraki-ken Koga-shi, 2009-2014) for passing along the following job opening.

The State University of New York at Cortland (SUNY Cortland) invites applications for the position of Assistant Director of Study Abroad within the International Programs Office. This role offers the opportunity to join a dedicated and collaborative team of professionals committed to advancing international educational exchange and supporting student success.

SUNY Cortland’s study abroad staff manage a robust portfolio of over 40 programs in 21 countries, serving approximately 300 students annually. The Assistant Director will play a key role in coordinating part of these programs, advising students, and fostering global engagement across the campus community. The position also involves maintaining strong working relationships with SUNY Cortland’s international partners abroad to support the continued success and development of high-quality study abroad experiences.

Any questions about this position please reach out to me directly <michael[dot]foki[at]cortland[dot]edu> ! Best of luck!

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here –  https://jobs.cortland.edu/postings/10526

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Japan Bowl Assistant
Posted by: Japan-America Society of Washington D.C.
Location: Washington, D.C., USA; Hybrid
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Sami Marks (Ishikawa Prefecture, Komatsu City, 2018-2023) for passing along the following job opening.

The Japan-America Society of Washington DC (JASWDC) is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to support the National Japan Bowl, America’s premier Japanese-language competition! As the Japan Bowl Assistant, you’ll help manage a dynamic two-day event celebrating talented high school students and their passion for Japanese language and culture.

Roles and Responsibilities: Work at the direction of the Japan Bowl Team to ensure all aspects of the two-day event are managed. Be familiar with all areas of the event and provide support to the Japan Bowl team and volunteers as
needed.

Application Process: For more information and to apply, please click here. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email.

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Position: Multiple Positions
Posted by: Japan Village
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Contract: Full-Time

Thanks to Sierra Block Gorman (Gunma Prefecture, 2021-2024) for passing along the following job openings.

Located in Industry City, Japan Village strives to bring Japanese hospitality and culture to New York. Please also feel free to reach out about volunteer opportunities, including at the Summer Festival on August 23rd.

Descriptions:

1. Barista – Prepare and serve coffee, tea, and specialty drinks (with a focus on matcha), provide excellent customer service, and maintain a clean, organized work area.
2. Restaurant Manager – Oversee daily restaurant operations, manage staff schedules, ensure compliance with health and safety standards, and deliver an exceptional dining experience for guests.
3. Bartender – Craft and serve cocktails and beverages, maintain bar inventory, engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner, and ensure the bar area is clean and organized.
4. Cashier – Handle transactions accurately using the POS system, provide excellent customer service, and assist in keeping the checkout area neat and efficient.

Application Process: Email a cover letter and resume to hr@japanvillage.com.