I'm a new grad who recently got shortlisted, which I'm incredibly grateful for. I worked really hard in college to get to this point, and I'm glad it paid off.
However, as I'm evaluating my career path post-grad, I've come to the conclusion that pursuing JET may not be the right decision in terms of my long-term career goals.
The job market is becoming extremely competitive, and I'm terrified that if I don't get a foot in the door now, then I'll have an incredibly difficult time doing so after JET. For reference, I'm looking to break into the media/communications/publicity field, ideally working for an international company. My goals just aren't aligned with the work I'll be doing as a JET (i.e. teaching English, government relations, etc.)
To add to this, I informed my (albeit, very strict and immigrant) parents about my shortlist offer, and they told me they'd be incredibly disappointed in me if I chose the path to pursue JET.
I'm honestly pretty gutted about declining my offer, but I feel like I need to put on my big girl pants and think logically about the best decision for myself and the career I want at the end of the day.
All of this to say — has anyone ever declined a shortlist offer and regretted it? Did you eventually reapply and pursue JET when you were more established and had more leverage in your career?
I hope I can give this opportunity to someone else who isn't faced with my indecision and wants to pursue a JET position more than I do. I'm manifesting for anyone who's an alternate to get upgraded!! 💗
by fruitatari