To Japan or not to Japan?

[Cheungygirl]

Hi all

I will be going into my second year studying Computer Animation soon, and as I chose to do a sandwich course it means I have the oppurtunity to have a year working in industry for my third year. I am really really interested in working Japan, so even though I probably know the answer to this, I was wondering if it would be possible in any way, shape or form to be able to get a year work placement in Japan at an animation or games company? From what I understand, industries in Japan seem kind of strict and scary compared to the UK, so I'm pretty much just asking out of curiosity on a whim really!

Cheungygirl

[James Kay]

Hi Cheungygirl,

Japanese companies aren't so strict and scary, really.
Work placements from abroad might be difficult. What I often see in Japan is that people come over here on a student's visa and study full-time at a local university (often language studies) and use their spare time, holidays and off-days to intern or work part-time at local companies. This is probably not a bad way to do a work placement in Japan, but it would probably detract a little from your animation studies.
My advise is to get some local work experience during your placement year and then consider Japan after you've graduated. Having a degree and work experience will make your entry into the Japanese industry somewhat easier.

Best of luck!
J

[Cheungygirl]

Thanks for the reply J

I had a feeling it was a long shot to ask, but I am definitely looking into Japan as a possibility after I graduate

Cheungygirl