Carlo Bahe used his Nebraska Wesleyan University career to see the world.
A faculty-led trip to Ireland and Rwanda. A student-led trip to Mexico. A semester abroad at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa.
But one particular experience — an intensive language program at NWU’s sister school, Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan — made him want to learn more about the country’s history, politics, art and language.
Now Bahe will spend the next year in Japan teaching English and helping with afterschool clubs thanks to the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program.
Now in its 30th year, the JET Program promotes a grassroots international exchange between Japan and other nations. Those accepted into the prestigious program teach English in Japanese schools or work in Japanese communities on international exchange activities.
“I am most excited for the opportunity to fully immerse myself in Japanese culture and travel around the country,” said Bahe, who graduated in May with a degree in global studies. “It will be a unique experience to have the chance to teach English while learning Japanese, and I’m looking forward to seeing students’ progress throughout the year.”
Upon his return, Bahe wants to pursue a career working with English language learners, particularly immigrants and refugees.