One of the biggest things TAB has given me has actually been a stronger sense of confidence in myself.
Living in Japan has involved constantly figuring things out: transportation, language, schools, food, unfamiliar expectations, and all kinds of little situations that I would normally never think twice about at home. There hasn’t always been someone there to explain exactly what to do.
And somehow, we’ve figured it out.
Having my cohort here has made a huge difference too. It has been really nice having people to lean on while still being pushed to become more independent.
Our trip to Rebun Island felt almost like a little final exam for that. We travelled to a very remote part of Hokkaido and had to navigate ferries, buses, accommodation, food, hiking, and everything else that came with it. Looking back, I realized how much more capable I feel than when I first arrived in Japan.
I think that confidence will carry into teaching too. At the same time, observing schools here has reinforced for me how important differentiation is. Strong community and shared expectations can be wonderful, but I also noticed moments where students who didn’t fit those expectations as easily seemed more at risk of falling through the cracks.
I want to take both lessons home with me: give students opportunities to become capable and independent, while still meeting them where they are.
TAB has made me feel more confident not only as a future teacher, but as an adult navigating the world.