SI-UK Counsellors and Instructors: Tokyo

Director SI-UK

Hometown: Toronto, Canada

Academic Background: University of Toronto

After graduating from the University of Toronto, Canada, Dwayne Gallagher has spent over ten years in the UK, Europe and Northeast Asia managing and directing companies related to international education. Dwayne has worked very closely with the British Council, a large number of government organizations and UK universities in the area of international student recruitment. Dwayne is responsible for overseeing the global management of SI-UK.

Director

Hometown: London, England

Academic Background: B.A., M.A., BEd.,LLB.

Orion is from London England. He holds degrees from four top universities including an LL.B specialising in International law, an M.A. and a BEd. After graduation Orion co-founded a nationally recognised multimedia company. For the past 12 years he has worked in the international education sector, promoting UK Education and closely collaborating with UK universities and the British Council. Orion's responsibilities include global operations, marketing, and strategic planning at SI-UK.

Director

Hometown: Kent, England

Academic Background: Loughborough University

Vicki is from Kent, England and is one of the founding partners of SI-UK Global. She graduated from Loughborough University in Computing and Management and moved into the IT and management consulting industry. After a period of 5 years in Japan with SI-UK she moved to London to head up the London office. She has counselled thousands of students regarding education options in the UK and is extremely well versed in the education sector. She is responsible for company marketing, enhancing technology at SI-UK and business development.

Tokyo Office Manager

Hometown: Hyogo, Japan

Academic Background: Sophia University
                        State University of New York, Plattsburgh

Graduated from Sophia University in 2006. Keitaro supports students at SI-UK with counselling, application, and contacting Universities on behalf of students. Keitaro studied English on his own while attending Japanese high school, and eventually achieved Eiken 1st grade, which he set as a goal. Based on this experience, Keitaro gives advice as to how to study English as a Second Language. Lived in Tokyo for the past 7 years. Likes travelling, singing, translating literature, weight-lifting, riding bycicles, reading personal development books.

Senior Study Abroad Counsellor

Hometown: Saitama, Japan

Academic Background: MA, University of Limerick

Sachiko completed a Masters in Irish Traditional Music Performance at the University of Limerick, Ireland as the first Japanese student. After coming back to Japan, utilizing her experience in Ireland, she took part in Educational fairs organized by the Embassy of Ireland in Tokyo and the Japan Student Service Organization. At an overseas agency in Tokyo, furthermore, she was in charge of study abroad programs, exchange student programs, and internship programs and supported Japanese students who would like to study in U.K., U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Sachiko now counsels students about education options in the UK.

Senior Study Abroad Counsellor

Hometown: Saitama, Japan

Academic Background: MA Linguistics, University of Sheffield

Saki graduated from Tokyo Women's Christian University with a degree in linguistics. She then moved onto to the UK and completed an MA in Applied Linguistics at the University of Sheffield. Saki's knowledge of the UK is extensive and she counsels students on student life in the UK, preparation in the UK and would like to use her knowledge to help students enjoy and succeed in their study abroad experience.

Language Centre Principal

Hometown: Derby, England

Academic Background: UCL, University College London

UK University Liaison Officer

Hometown: Newcastle, England

Academic Background: Journalism, University of Sunderland
Linguistics,　University of Nottingham

David is responsible for coordinating visits to Japan by UK universities to meet with prospective students, deliver guest lectures and attend our twice-yearly education fairs in Tokyo. As such, he is often in contact with UK universities and can advise applicants on how to apply, including how to write an effective personal statement and CV. Since completing his Cambridge CELTA in 2005, David has also accumulated a great deal of teaching experience, including at several Japanese universities, and now specialises in the teaching of IELTS and English for Academic Purposes at SI-UK.

Senior Study Abroad Counsellor

Hometown: Kanagawa, Japan

Academic Background: BA, International Relations

After graduating from university in Japan with a major in international relations, Nozomi spent significant time studying overseas in the United States and Canada. Using her own experience living and studying overseas, she loves to assist people who like to go study in the U.K. to make their dreams come true. Nozomi has over three years of experience counseling students on UK universities and the application process. Her work with SI-UK, her deep knowledge of university programmes and her love of the British culture make her an ideal counselor. Nozomi has received extensive training and is British Council Certified to assist students for UK study.

Senior Study Abroad Counsellor

Hometown: 

Academic Background: SOAS, University of London

Mika spent one year in Texas, U.S.A during her high school time and also during her university period in Japan. Mika studied in the UK at the University of London’s School of Oriental & African Studies (SOAS) for one year. At university in Japan, she majored in English Children’s literature and Cultural Studies in English speaking countries. Mika’s extensive UK studies and study abroad experience give her a strong background in supporting people with their dream of studying in the U.K.

Study Abroad Counsellor

Hometown: 広島県

Academic Background: SOAS, University of London

Yoshie used to live in the U.K. for 6 years and has traveled back there more than 15 times! She received a BSc in Sociology from University of Leicester and an MA in Applied Linguistics from SOAS, University of London. After completing her two UK degrees, she also took business English and computer related programs in Britian. Yoshie has been working as a counselor for study abroad for several years. She is willing to share her own wonderful experience studying in the U.K. and support people, who wish to go to England, to achieve their academic goals and also make sure they feel secure about living in the U.K.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: SOAS, University of London

Hometown: 

Academic Background: MA Newcastle University

After graduating from university in Japan, Miki received her master’s degree in cross -cultural communications and international relations at Newcastle University. While en rolled at university, she studied on a one year exchange program in Washington State. At SI-UK, Miki hopes to leverage her overseas experiences to help students realize the ir dreams of studying in the UK. She enjoys utilising her extensive study abroad exper ience to counsel students on their study plans and applications to UK universities and colleges, particularly with those who are interested in the north of the country.

IELTS・TOEFL Instructor

Hometown: Cambbridge, England

Academic Background: University of Kent

After graduating with honours from the University of Kent at Canterbury, James earned a CELTA (the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) in Norwich. James taught Academic English preparation course at numerous locations such as in Canterbury, Norwich, Cambridge, London and also in the UAE and moved to Japan in 2004. James has been teaching IELTS and TOEFL at SI-UK since 2010 and assisting students with UK study preparation.

IELTS・Business English Instructor

Hometown: London, England

Academic Background: BA Sonic Arts, TESOL

Francis is from London. He has a BA in Sonic Art and also has a certificate of TESOL from Trinity College, University of Cambridge. He had chance to live in Japan on several different occasions and feels a strong connection to the country. He’s been teaching in Japan and the U.K. for more than 7 years. His teaching and counselling focus is to prepare students who plan to study in the U.K.. Francis has expertise in prepping students with the styles of IELTS/TOEFL/TOEIC and is willing to share the best strategies to get the higher score with his Japanese students. Francis helps counsel students on their UK location and accommodation and lifestyle choices.

IELTS Instructor

Hometown: Alexandria, Scotland

Academic Background: MA Hons. with distinction in Japanese from Edinburgh Univ., Graduate Diploma Waseda Univ.

After Graduating from Edinburgh University with an undergraduate masters in Japanese studies Stephen moved to Japan to work in the education field and has over 4 years experience with English teaching. One year spent in Hokkaido as a volunteer in conjunction with a years study and diploma in Japanese language from Waseda University in Tokyo gives a good base of teaching and counselling experience despite being a recent graduate. In future Stephen hopes to gain a second masters degree in Peace and Conflict studies in the UK before studying for a PhD in International Relations in the United States.

IELTS Instructor

Hometown: Oban, Scotland

Academic Background: BA Hons. in Business & Management from the University of the Highlands & Islands

Craig comes from the north-west coast of Scotland, after being given the opportunity to visit Japan at the age of 17, he has been involved with the country one way or another ever since. He has been teaching in Japan for over 3 years, beginning with volunteer work in Toyako-cho, Hokkaido. After providing support and English teaching in preparation for the Japan 2008 G8 Summit, Craig began teaching in Tokyo. With excellent knowledge of IELTS, his main objective is to encourage and equip students with the ability to pass the test as best as possible. He believes confidence is the best tool to succeed and will do his best to motivate and support any student.

IELTS/TOEFL/EAP Instructor

Hometown: Liverpool, England

Academic Background: University of Liverpool,

After graduating with honours from the University of Liverpool, Nick traveled extensively around Asia before deciding to base himself in in Japan. He has accumulated a wide variety of teaching experiences both here and in Europe. As a modern language graduate, Nick can understand the difficulties that many learners of English face and believes that there is no easy way to acquire a foreign language. Motivation, realistic goals and in turn noticeable improvement are the keys to success. Nick is currently busying himself with Japanese studies and intends to take Level 1 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test this year.

IELTS Instructor

Hometown: Cheltenham

Academic Background: 

IELTS・TOEFL Instructor/ Counsellor

Hometown: Perth, Scotland

Academic Background: University of Aberdeen

Born in London and raised in Scotland, Laura earned a BSc Immunology at the University of Aberdeen and graduated with honors. She came to Japan in 2006 soon after finishing her degree and ever since she has been teaching Academic English courses, helping students prepare for their successful academic lives in the U.K. She is interested in Medicine and planning to pursue her Masters in the Immunological field in the future.

IELTS・Business English Instructor

Hometown: Edinburgh, Scotland

Academic Background: St Andrews and Aberdeen Universities

James is from Edinburgh, Scotland. He studied at the prestigious University of St. Andrews and also the University of Aberdeen where he received an MA in Political Science. He has lived in many countries including the US, Canada, Sweden and has experienced a variety of cultures. James’ extraordinary facility with the English language and his commitment to students combined with his profound knowledge of the British Isles makes him a perfect UK academic study abroad advisor and preparation instructor.

IELTS/TOEFL/EAP Instructor

Hometown: Portland, Oregon

Academic Background: San Fransisco University

After graduating from university, Mike enrolled at Temple University for his Master’s program. This is his 8th year in Japan and he spent the first 6 years teaching English at Waseda University. He is a highly sought after teacher with deep knowledge of IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC and Business English.

IELTS/TOEFL/EAP Instructor

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Academic Background: University of Georgia

Megan studied for her Undergraduate in Women’s Studies (major) and Biology (minor). While growing up in a multi cultural environment, it was only natural for her to become interested in teaching English. She received a certificate of TEFL specializing in English grammar and then came to Japan. Since then, she has been teaching IELTS, TOEFL and TOEIC to many students from different age groups and for different English levels. She is very experienced and passionate about teaching English and supporting students in accomplishing their dreams to study in the U.K.

IELTS/TOEFL Instructor

Hometown: London, England

Academic Background: University of Leeds

IELTS/TOEFL Teacher

Hometown: 

Academic Background: 

Kerry is from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England. She graduated from The University of Liverpool in 2000, with a BSc(hons) in Human Movement Science and Psychology. After graduating she worked in the financial sector in the UK. During this period she was involved in worldwide client service transactions. Kerry came to Japan in 2002 and she has been teaching English since, to students of all ages and abilities. She has taught in several language schools and a number of High Schools; additionally she taught at a school for the deaf and hard of hearing and is proficient in sign language. During this time she has developed essential Second language teaching skills to break down language, for more effective acquisition by learners. Kerry speaks Japanese and has passed the JLPT Level 2.

Language School Counsellor

Hometown: 

Academic Background: MA Linguistics, University of Essex

Helen’s teaching career began in Spain in 2001, and since then she has been teaching in England and Japan. In Tokyo, she has worked at Otsuma University, Tokyo University of Science and an English Language school, while in England she was teaching classes of international students. Many of her students are using or will use English in their university studies, and she has taught IELTS, TOIEC and Cambridge exam classes, as well as working as Cambridge ESOL oral examiner at a number of language schools across Europe. Helen is mainly responsible for Group IELTS classes.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Aoyama Gakuin University　・University of Kent

Shin is currently studying Economics at Aoyama Gakuin University. He applied to a JYA program through SI-UK and spent one year (2008-2009) studying at the University of Kent. He is willing to share his experience and assist people who wish to go study in the U.K. He is especially interested in sharing his stories with anyone who’s interested in going to the University of Kent or any universities in the Southern England.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Waseda University BA International Relations

Shannon is half Japanese and half American. She went to high school in the States, and is currently studying International Relations at Waseda University. Having lived in both Japan and the States, she is fully bilingual. At SI-UK, she is working as a translator and an interpreter.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Seisen University　・SOAS, the University of London

Mamina is a junior at Seisen University. She studied International Relations and Development in the UK for one year at SOAS, the University of London from 2008 to 2009. She is willing to share her own study abroad experience and help people, who wish to go study in the U.K., make their dreams come true as a counselor. She is especially interested in speaking with people who are interested in studying in SOAS.

IT Engineer

Hometown: Chicago, USA

Academic Background: 

Dwayne is the director of a company which provides IT services to Tokyo based foreign companies and provides IT Engineering services to SI-UK assisting with SI-UK’s Global network design, implementation and management. He not only actively works as an IT engineer but also spins the table at numerous events in Tokyo as a DJ.

Creative Designer

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Monash University

Abyan Janus brings to the team more than 5 years of expertise in design and branding with some of the world's leading agencies. As a Multimedia Design graduate of Monash University, Australia, she began her career as a graphic designer, working with major clients in Malaysia and Japan. Working abroad has given her the advantage of being exposed to various cultures and strengthened her communication skills. For 3 years, she was based in Tokyo with one of Japan's leading agencies. As a key member of the creative team, she helped conceptualise and design advertising campaigns for various multi-national clients. A strategic thinker, she is skilled in new media, web design, copywriting and illustration.

IT Developer

Hometown: 

Academic Background: University of Essex

Mostafa, originally from Yemen, graduated from the University of Essex with a first class honors degree in Computing. His strong interest and lengthy education in technology has allowed him to develop his career and portfolio of successful projects. Mostafa is reponsible for managing database development within SI-UK and has successfully created one of the most highly developed database systems for managing students and applications.

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Academic Background: 

Aya is currently studying Psychology at Ochanomizu University and has spent a great deal of time overseas. She has lived in Australia and New Zealand for study purposes. Aya would like to help students prepare for study abroad by using her own experience. She is responsible for counseling and advising students at SI-UK Education Council.

Senior UK University / Language School Counsellor

Hometown: 

Academic Background: 

Yoshie Rowe has over three years experience living and studying in Australia, New Zealand and America. She is fully bilingual and very knowledgeable in the overseas study industry having previously worked in one of the largest overseas study agencies in Japan prior to joining our team. She has helped hundreds of Japanese students find their best study options not only in the UK but also in America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Rikkyo University

Kaoru is currently studying Tourism, Cultural Anthropology at Rikkyo University in Japan. She used to live in Dublin in Ireland for 3 years when she was a high school student. She hopes to assist SI-UK students to prepare for their study in UK through her experience in the British Isles.

Hometown: 

Academic Background: Keio University ・ Brown University

Mari graduated from Keio University in Japan and spent one year at Brown University in America. She has lived in South America, North America and is fully bilingual.