Tara Mooney with a Female Perspective

WELCOME TO SENDAI!!!!!!

Hello everyone!! I hope you are all getting excited about coming to Sendai. Sendai is truly one of the nicest places to live in Japan. Let me introduce myself, my name is Tara Mooney. This will be my third year as an ALT in Sendai, and my fourth year living in Japan.

I'm writing this letter on behalf of all the incoming female Jets. Don't panic, I'm not going to say anything bad here, just a few pieces of advice. Japan does have most of the conveniences of a western country, but there are things that help to make a difference to one's comfort level. For example, if you are used to specific brand name products (shampoo, soap, toothpaste etc.) then please bring them from home or have them sent over at a later date. If any of you are taking birth control pills make sure and have the necessary amount for the year. You will not be able to get your prescriptions for birth control pills filled in Japan. Also make sure and bring lots of clothes. Clothes in Japan are not cheap, not to mention difficult to find in western sizes. There are a few shops around town that do have clothes in western sizes just not at western prices. Maybe include some pieces of home to help with the transition i.e. photos, posters, video tapes etc.

I also want to give you a few tips about safety. Basically Japan is one of the safest countries to live in. Yet, as with anyplace these days you can never be too careful. I would just try and exercise the same cautions as you would in your own respective countries. More than likely you will not encounter any problems that can't be easily resolved. (These and other related topics will be discussed in further detail at the Sendai orientation).

I hope that this helps out a little in terms of what to pack, and what to think about before you head over to Sendai. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. I'm looking forward to meeting you all this summer. Get in touch with me by E-mail: tmooney243@aol.com
tel: 022-711-3390 fax: 022-301-9648

Tara