[ACW]

Hi, this is my first post on the "Japan Forum" so I thank you for your time and patience. I'm in my third year of college and I am planning on teaching English in Japan after I graduate. For the previous three semesters I have been learning Japanese in class and in my free time. I've been mostly practicing grammar a lot and learning a little Kanji. Up to 200 so far I believe. Anyways my first question would be am I on the right track concerning the Japanese language? Should I keep studying now or wait till I go to Japan? I only ask this because learning another language in your native country can be quite hard.

Next I've been saving money for Japan so I can rent an apartment, pay for key money, etc. whenever I go. I was wondering what a single room apartment with a western toilet, washing machine, and bath would cost. I lived in a apartment in Niigata but I did not have to pay for it since it was provided by the university I was attending. I have no idea on the expenses

Next, I was looking at Jason's guide to Japan, particulary the cover letter and resume as well the different teaching programs in Japan. I was interested in JET but found that it's selection of teacher's is like playing Russian roulette blind-folded. I also heard about the shady business practices of INTERAC with English teacher's. I was wandering, has anyone had any interactions with other companies such as Geos, ECC, Berlitz & Aeon? Any advise from current or past teacher's would be wonderful. Oh as well would anyone like to add anything a part from what Jason said in his guide concerning cover letter and resume?

I would like to live in the country-side, the real side of Japan. I've been to Tokyo but I don't want to live in all of that hustle and bustle. Plus I don't think I would learn more about the Japanese language than I will in the country-side. I want to be forced to be speak Japanese haha. I was wandering where would be a great place for me to learn Japanese as well as teaching English where it's most needed?

Well thank you for your time. Any further advice would be great as well. Once again thank you.

-Andru