Hello everyone,
I'm looking to pursue a career in Graphic Design in Japan. I am set to graduate with a degree in BA Gen. Studies and join the JET program to get my foot in the door in the country. I am taking classes for Graphic Design so I can learn the systems and know how to do the job but my degree won't be specifically majoring in Graphic Design. I should be able to still succeed in this field as Graphic Design doesn't require a specific degree, and it is primarily focused on actual ability, experience and a solid portfolio.
Based off of research I've done, the main hurdles I will face are
1: Getting a VISA (JET will provide this for me as well as getting established in the country, making connections, etc)
2: Obtaining employment in the field after the JET Program (I plan to work on freelance projects in my spare time in order to build a solid portfolio so that I am a solid candidate)
3: Becoming as fluent as possible in Japanese (my school does not provide a Japanese course, but I am teaching via multiple online programs to become conversational as well as learning hiragana and kanji. I plan to improve my skills once I arrive in the country by completing JLPT certification and using the language daily)
My question is, are there any hurdles I am missing? What other preparation should I complete in order to achieve this? Is Japan any different in terms of hiring in Graphic Design in terms of my degree and eligibility? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Sorry if this post seemed chaotic or my questions are silly. I just want to be as prepared as possible.
Arigato gozaimasu 🙂 !!
by Technical-Front4771