We would like to welcome Constance Judd to the 2021-2022 JETAA Chicago Board as our Outreach Coordinator! Take a look below at Constance's officer profile to learn about her motivations, values and goals.
Our Outreach Coordinator, Constance Judd (she/her), was a JET in Kochi Prefecture from 2018-2020.
Tell us more about your JET experience.
I was an ALT placed in Shimanto Town in Kochi Prefecture. JET for me was a once-in-a-lifetime experience where I got the opportunity to explore who I was and build lifelong friendships and relationships with those around me. I truly enjoyed my time in Japan and not one day passes that I don’t think about that small town located in the mountains that stole my heart.
When did you join/how long have you been on the JETAA Board? What positions have you held?
This is my first year being the Outreach Coordinator and I am looking forward to many more!
What inspired you to step up as a leader and join the JETAA Chicago Board?
Throughout the past few months, I have been volunteering on and off for JETAA Chicago. After returning to the states mid-COVID, I decided to apply for the Outreach Coordinator position to help those, like me, who were feeling a loss of connection within the JET Community and the world as a whole.
Describe your officer duties and what you are looking forward to in regard to your responsibilities.
I mainly coordinate “The Survival Series” for outgoing JETs. While this is my first year coordinating such an initiative, I am looking forward to building a community among outgoing JETs and current alumni.
What could be a healthy and/or needed culture add to JETAA Chicago?
Going forward, understanding how novel and unprecedented these times are is extremely important for JETAA Chicago, especially when assisting JETs who are having difficulty in navigating pre-departure and post-departure uncertainties.
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?
A goal of mine is to broaden our current network. While we have an extensive alumni network within the Chicagoland Area, it would be great to see it expand to our neighboring subchapters and national chapters as well.
For you, what sparks joy?
- My cat Dotty
- Eating Good Food
- Playing Animal Crossing
- Sketching
- Reading
What is your favorite Japanese "thing" near where you live now (and/or in the Midwest)?
Living in Chicago, I was always excited to go to Mitsuwa Market. Hopefully, I’ll get to visit soon!
Connect with Constance via LinkedIn!
