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MUSUBI: Preparing for Success: Reducing Pre-Arrival Stress for First-Time ALTs

MUSUBI: Preparing for Success: Reducing Pre-Arrival Stress for First-Time ALTs

Posted on 01/08/2026Last updated on 01/08/2026

Thinking about becoming an ALT in Japan can feel exciting, but if we’re being honest, it can also feel intimidating. Many first-time ALTs share the same worries: “What if I’m not experienced enough?” “What will the classrooms be like?” “Am I really ready for this?”

These feelings are completely normal. In fact, they’re one of the most common topics new arrivals mention before they step on the plane.

At Borderlink, we meet people every year who feel exactly the same way and we’ve learned that easing pre-arrival anxiety isn’t just about providing information and instruction. It’s about building confidence and a realistic sense of what the ALT journey is all about.

Here’s how we help future ALTs feel ready before they embark on their journey to Japan.

Focusing on Mindset, Not Perfection

Many new ALTs worry they need to be “expert teachers” from day one. The truth? Nobody expects that.

Schools value enthusiasm, clear communication, and willingness to learn far more than prior experience. The ALT role is built around teamwork, cultural exchange, and supporting English communication, not mastering everything overnight.

What helps ease pre-arrival anxiety is reframing the goal: You’re not arriving as a finished product. You’re arriving as someone willing to grow.

Encouraging Realistic Expectations

Anxiety often comes from imagining the worst-case scenario. Most new ALTs don’t know what to expect, so their minds fill in the blanks with uncertainty.

To counter this, we highlight important truths:

- Japanese schools are cooperative environments.
- Teamwork with teachers is central.
- Mistakes are normal and being open to learning is key.
- Students are curious, energetic and, most of the time, excited to meet you.

Understanding these simple realities helps future ALTs picture a kinder, more supportive environment than they might be imagining.

Our Support Network

Support is one of the biggest factors in easing anxiety, but it is also one of Borderlink's strongest features.

Future ALTs can take comfort knowing:
- Guidance is available as they adjust
- There are resources and people they can rely on
- Questions are not just allowed, they’re expected

Simply knowing that a safety net exists can turn nervousness into calm confidence.

Celebrating the Strength That Comes From Taking the Leap

Moving abroad is no small decision.

It takes courage. It takes curiosity. It takes an open mind.

We remind future ALTs of something important:
If you truly have the willingness to learn, adapt, and be present for the children, you do have the qualities to fit in well to the school environment.

With the right perspective and a supportive environment, your worries naturally ease as confidence grows.

At Borderlink, we see this transformation happen every year: People who arrive uncertain start thriving, smiling, and connecting deeply with their students and communities.

The school year in Japan is starting soon on April 2026!

If you're already living in Japan, why not join us to start your journey to teach English. At Borderlink, we’re proud of the relationships we’ve built and we’d love for you to be part of them.

✨We're hiring now for Spring 2026 placements!→ Click here to apply now!