Hi all, I am an 18-year-old Australian veterinary student (first year) hoping to move overseas one day. While I haven't decided where exactly I want to go, I am strongly considering Japan. This is a long-term project, and I don't plan to rush it. While I understand some Japanese, my competency is nowhere near the level at which I can live comfortably in Japan – this is something I aim to remedy with a language school (and a possible diploma in Japanese language) after or during my uni studies. After I graduate, I plan to stay in Australia (and maybe move back to South Africa, where I was born, for a bit; they have some amazing wildlife ) for a couple of years to build up some clinical experience and get myself economically situated. I also plan to graduate debt-free; I have a really good, secure job that pays me enough to pay my school fees as long as I live with my parents (which they have agreed to). Other than the Japanese license exam I know I have to take (which I have been told is very hard), I am concerned about the work culture, pay, and the need for vets in Japan. I am with the understanding that Japan, like most countries, prioritizes other Japanese workers. Does this mean it will be very hard for me to find a job – especially outside of the city? I would also love to know about anyone else's experience as a foreigner in Japan (especially outside the big cities) and the pros and cons.
Before anyone cusses me out and tells me that I am naive and incompetent – please know that this decision is not set in stone; it's just me trying to work towards my goals.
by mynonsense667