A Study on International Students Searching for Work in Japan (Utilizing Life-Story Method for International Students Who Belong to an English-Taught Course)

Abstract

This paper explores and expands upon previous research regarding the experiences of international students coming to Japan and actively looking for employment after graduation. By utilizing Life-Story methodology, the authors conducted interviews on three students from different countries who are currently attending a graduate school in Japan. The results show that there are three barriers to finding employment: 1. Inadequate Japanese language proficiency; 2. Corporate perception issues of ideal employees and a difficult job-hunting system; and 3. A lack of support from universities. The authors then suggest ways of overcoming these issues to help international students secure employment after graduation.