[jasonbvr]

Most of the JET gatherings when you first arrive are not only to learn how to work as an ALT but also to learn how to live in Japan. We, English teachers and other foreigners in Japan, will always learn a lot from those here before us.

Even when working for a private company, you will still have to go to numerous work related functions of the same kind and often with JET participants. The point I was trying to make was that JET's are simply more likely to meet a lot more people because of being in the JET program.

If I was offered a position in JET, yes I would probably take it because of the money. The reason I haven't applied, I enjoy the fact I can live where I choose to at the moment and if I needed or wanted more income I could simply get a few weekly private students.

Working for my company has been a good experience. I have been told that they are one of the best in the region, but now that it is nearing the end of my contract period I may be moving on despite how good they are or how much I like my school.

Why? Just to see if 1) I can get a better offer and 2) getting a better job is fairly easy once you have that first year of experience.