-STEPHANIE ALLEN
Achieving a higher degree of education at university is a step that all of us here at APU takes. Many of us would pursue a different career after we graduate, maybe creating a start-up, working in japan or creating a non-profit organization. Getting the degree is a challenge itself. Other than working hard for grades, some of us had to worry about other things as well.
Finances. Going to university abroad could be a lot of money to some of us. So when we decided to try and make an income to support ourselves, our part-time job, so-called Baito, life will begin.
Located at approximately 300 meters above sea level, the most internationalized university in the country, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, offers the exquisite amalgam of mountainous and oceanic panorama. Photo Credit: Kelvin Tang
The on-campus Baito is a good way to start. Coop and cafeteria are open to accepting the first years. Being a TA, however, requires you to be a at second-year and above. Being a TA may not necessarily require Japanese, but the cafeteria and coop certainly need a certain level of Japanese proficiency.
Off-campus Baito also has its perks. It can be closer to your apartment and offer higher wages. Baito downtown could also allow you to have longer working hours if needed.
Followings are some factors you should consider when looking for Baito:
Working hours. Most Baito has a 4 to 5 hours shift. Sometimes they may also require you to put in a minimum of 3 shifts a week while some other may just need you seasonally ( more shifts on holiday season). You should also watch out for the time of your shift. Whether it starts at 5 am in the morning or evening and when does it finish ( usually 10 to 11 pm for night shift).
Hourly pay. Hourly pay could also affect your Baito life. The higher the pay the less you can work to cover your living expenses. Some Baito also pays you extra after 10. This Baito would be great if you are ready to stay up for extra cash.
Distance from home. Walking 10-15 minutes is still a good distance for Baito. But consider the transportation cost and the time loss if you chose a Baito far from your apartment. Some hotels and business do cover your transportation expense or even provide your transport. Just be mindful of the time loss and the energy that you have to put out just to get there.
Workload. Whether it’s a teaching English Baito or washing dishes in a restaurant, different Baito requires a different amount of energy. There are “yasashi” Baito out there that require little energy and high pay, but it is quite rare and hard to find. So when you apply, do check your job desk and whether or not the pay is worth it.
There are many other things but here is one of the most common things people look out for when choosing a Baito. Keep in mind that the Baito you are doing should not interfere with your health and study. The Baito you do should only work as a support to your lifestyle as a university student. What`s the point of doing Baito if you got sick or fail a class? You have extra medical fees to pay and you might not graduate on time. Keep the balance guys and good luck!!