Get to Know Our Officers - Featuring Our Wisconsin Subchapter Representative, Adrianna Cruz!

Although she's been a part of the JETAA Chicago team for a long time, we would like to formally introduce our Wisconsin Subchapter Representative, Adrianna Cruz! She's been doing an excellent job keeping our WI Subchapter engaged by hosting quarterly meetings, JETogethers and more. Take a look below at Adrianna's officer profile to learn about her motivations, values and goals.

Our Wisconsin Subchapter Representative, Adrianna Cruz (she/her), was an ALT in Kyoto Prefecture from 2009-2014.

Tell us more about your JET experience.

I spent 5 exciting years living in Fukuchiyama-shi in northern Kyoto. I taught as an ALT in two High Schools and one special needs school. Since I lived in the countryside, I was able to connect with many of the locals to learn and experience the language and culture. Many of my best memories happened in Japan on the JET Program, and I am grateful to have made so many amazing friends there.

When did you join/how long have you been on the JETAA Board? What positions have you held?

WI Subchapter Representative since 2019

What inspired you to step up as a leader and join the JETAA Chicago Board?

I always enjoyed attending the Wisconsin meetings. I could reminisce about Japan and it was fun to travel to other cities around the state and meet up with others to do something new. I hope our subchapter can stay strong and active, so when Joette asked if I could start planning some meetings, of course I said yes.

Describe your officer duties and what you are looking forward to in regard to your responsibilities.

Our subchapter is fairly small, but I enjoy planning the quarterly meetings, the activities at Anime Milwaukee, and other JETogethers. When I can, traveling down to Chicago for events is always fun, as well.

What is one goal you would like to accomplish as an officer of JETAA Chicago, or something that you are looking forward to being a part of?

I have enjoyed connecting with other JETs and organizing ways for us all to be involved in Wisconsin post-JET. Getting connected for events like Japan Fest and Anime Milwaukee panels has been rewarding.

For you, what sparks joy?

- Japanese Food

- Good music

- Travel

- Reading

- Learning languages

What is your favorite Japanese "thing" near where you live now (and/or in the Midwest)?

While Mitsuwa is in Illinois, taking a road trip there is always a yearly activity.

Connect with Adrianna via LinkedIn; Instagram; or email!

Let's get into Juku mode for the JLPT with JETAA Chicago!

Join us Wednesday, November 29th from 7:00-8:00 pm CST, for JETAA Chicago's last Japanese Language Series event for 2023!

It might be past time to start preparing for the JLPT in December, but we're going for one last Gambare! We will be going through some Kanji and Dokkai (reading) activities based on the JLPT N4, N3, and N2. Not preparing for any of those tests? No worries! The night will still be an opportunity for Japanese practice for all skill levels. ぜひ来てください！

The Japanese Language Series events are intended to bring together JETAA members and supporters who want to stay engaged with Japanese language learning and use.

Sign up here!

Questions? Email our Secretary, Rurik.

This event is open to alumni and Friends of JET.

2023 JETAA Chicago Career Development Workshop

Whether you're a recently returned JET alum or making a career change, you may be at a crossroads as to your next steps and opportunities. This event will show how the skills you've acquired transfer to a new career, and how to network toward that end.

Join us Saturday, December 9th from 11 am-1 pm CST, for the virtual JETAA Chicago Career Development Workshop! If you are a JET alum currently navigating the job market after JET, considering switching careers, or just pondering what’s next for you, then your attendance is welcome! This event is intended to bring together JETAA members who are looking for career advice at all stages of their career trajectory.

Our speaker will be Kasia from Ikigai Connections (ikigaiconnections.com) who can answer your questions about advancing your professional plans.

The workshop will consist of presentations on Building a Japan-Related Career and Networking. The first ten people to sign up AND attend the event will receive a free 30-minute one-on-one session with Kasia free of charge on the topic of their choice.

Please join us for this free workshop providing invaluable advice to help advance your career after JET!

Sign up here!

This event is for JET alumni only.

Questions? Contact Joe at networking@jetaachicago.com