>>713405020That's what everyone thought, but interviewers would tell me that they wouldn't be able to get me through without even at least an associate's degree. And the interviews would go well too, it's just that as soon as they would reach the degree part, it would basically end. But I'd also get "If you can get one, contact me and we can do this again and we'll get you set up". Crushing, but it is what it is, and I understand why it's a thing. There are other ways to stay, but I was told they were not recommended at all, and after 5 years, you are out. There's also a specialized workers visa for people with over 10 years of experience in a specific field, but I don't qualify for that.
As I was coming back, I had plans, I was going to work nights and build up whatever I could, maybe listen to Japanese audio when it's slow, study more and more, but everything immediately came grinding to a halt here. Got long lectures on all the things I was stupid for expecting to be able to do, I have no options, don't expect to go back, and also "It's better here anyway".