JET Application Workshop: Putting Your Best Foot Forward
We often get the question: “How do I become a stronger JET applicant?” If you have asked that question, then this workshop is for YOU!
If you are applying for the JET Program (or any program!) for the first time or maybe second, third or fourth time, you know that a strong application starts with understanding your personal experiences, motivations, and articulating what makes you stand out as a candidate.
Join us on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET for our JET Application Workshop: Putting Your Best Foot Forward with JET alum Marti Deyo (Aomori, 2004-2009), founder of Positive Global Learning, a nonprofit that designs immersive international experiences that are rooted in connection, cultural understanding, and leadership.
Our workshop will begin with a presentation designed to walk you through questions to consider and push you to look deep within yourself to find your WHY behind WHY JET? We’ll also have a JET-relevant panel discussion followed by a Q&A breakout rooms for you to ask questions and gain some insight from those with experience.
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
Understand what makes a compelling JET applicant
Recognize experiences you already have that strengthen your application
Gain ideas and inspiration from peers and presenters
Leave with better insight for your own WHY
This workshop is designed to help you put your best foot forward as you prepare your JET application, including how to approach your Statement of Purpose. We hope to see you there!
Registration fee: $10
This workshop is presented in partnership with Positive Global Learning, one of our wonderful JET-Alumni Owned Business sponsors.
Our Presenters, Panelists & Facilitators:
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Eli is a recent Virginia Tech graduate with a background in communication, leadership, research, and teaching. After spending time in Japanese classrooms and exploring cultural exchange firsthand, he is now preparing to apply for the 2027–2028 JET Programme. As someone currently navigating the application journey himself, Eli brings a relatable perspective on turning experiences, interests, and aspirations into a strong JET application.
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Kimberly is a second-year Prefectural JET in Aomori City, where she works through the Education Center and visits two high schools each month. Having recently navigated the JET application, interview, and transition to life in Japan herself, she brings applicants an encouraging, firsthand perspective on preparing for JET, building confidence, and embracing the opportunities and unexpected moments that come with the experience.
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Leon is a second-year ALT in Ehime Prefecture and brings a current, firsthand perspective on classroom life, cultural exchange, and navigating everyday life in Japan. He can help prospective JETs look beyond the application itself and think about the experiences, challenges, and opportunities they may actually encounter once they arrive.
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Hannah is a third-year ALT in Gunma Prefecture teaching at elementary and junior high schools, where she enjoys building meaningful—and often funny—memories with her coworkers and students. Her time on JET has strengthened her flexibility, resilience, and ability to navigate unfamiliar situations. She brings applicants a firsthand perspective on the qualities that can help someone not only apply successfully, but thrive once they arrive in Japan.
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Rosella is a third-year JET Programme participant in Ehime Prefecture who is passionate about helping others interested in coming to Japan. She brings applicants an approachable, current-JET perspective on life in Japan and the realities, opportunities, and growth that can come with saying yes to the JET experience.
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Victoria is a fifth-year JET Programme participant teaching at a rural high school in Kyoto Prefecture and holds graduate degrees in Global Education and International Relations. Having lived, studied, and worked across a variety of communities and cultures, she brings applicants a thoughtful perspective on adaptability, cross-cultural learning, and making the most of the opportunities that come with living and working abroad.
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Aaron is an award-winning writer, director, and producer and a former JET Programme participant in Kochi. His creative work spans film, theater, audio storytelling, and projects connecting the United States and Japan. As a professional storyteller, Aaron brings a unique perspective on recognizing the experiences that have shaped you—and communicating those experiences in a way that helps others understand who you are and what you bring to JET.
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Genevieve is an educator, program developer, and founder of Know My World with experience in social-emotional learning, global education, and cross-cultural connection. A former Aomori JET, she has worked with students and educators across Taiwan and internationally. She brings applicants a valuable perspective on identity, purpose, wellbeing, and the personal growth that can come from stepping into a global experience.
