[Tsuwabuki]

How did I do it?

Well, in high school, I had an interest in Japanese. That set Japan up as an eventual goal. Then I attended college and was part of the Naval Reserve- I initially thought that becoming an officer would get me assigned to 7th fleet. For various reasons I regret now, I left the Navy, I finished my degree, and then I worked in politics. I pretty much gave up on Japan. Then due to the economic downturn, I ended up losing my job in politics. In order to pay my bills I took a job teaching English in Korea. I hated it. I spent a few months looking for a job in Japan, I had experience and a degree, and I was nearby (relocation only cost me about $180) all I needed was someone willing to sponsor me for a visa. I had, in fact, been offered three positions and got to choose which one I liked best. And so here I am.

And you know how much time it took between "I want to live in Japan" and "I live in Japan"? Around a decade.