Jessica Smith - Okinawa (2003-2006)

Where were you in Japan as a JET and when? 

I lived in Naha, Okinawa from 2003-2006.

What sparked your interest in applying for the JET program? 

I was at Howard University and wanted to find out more about studying abroad. So I went to the International Affairs Center one day to get some general information about what was offered. It just so happened that there was JET representative presenting about the program that day. The rest is history.

What are some of the things your prefecture is known for? e.g. food, hotspots, etc. 

Okinawa is known for it's Ryukyu heritage and beautiful beaches. It consists of several islands and a favorite past time for Okinawan JETs is going to Tokashiki to dive or camp for the weekend. It is also known for its heavy United States military presence. There are several military bases on the island, including Kadena Air Base, which is huge. This has created some interesting culinary dishes, such as Taco Rice, which is essentially taco fixings on top of sticky rice instead of tortillas. This was invented for the GIs and has become a staple. Goya Champuru is another traditional Okinawan dish. 

Did you pick up any of the regional dialects? What are some of your favorite words or phrases? 

It's been a minute since my time in Japan, so much of the Japanese I picked up, I'm sad to say, has been lost. But, I still say "Itadakimasu" before I eat and  "Ganbatte!" when encouraging my students. Not regional per se, but still some of my favorites. 

If you were to return to live in Japan, would you choose to live in that same prefecture? 

I enjoyed visiting other JETs on the mainland, for example in Hiroshima and Tokyo, so I'd want to get a feel for those prefectures if I returned. To be clear - I LOVED Okinawa and I hope to go back and visit one day. But I also love travel and I always want to experience new things.

How has your connection in relation to Japan changed since living in Japan? 

I'm definitely not as connected as I want to be. Social media has allowed me to keep up with many of my fellow JETs over the years but I regret not staying in touch with more of the students and teachers that I worked with. I would also really encourage folks to take advantage of their local JET Alumni Association. The Southeast Region offers a lot of programming to keep people connected.

Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your JET story!