I first learned about the study abroad program at Seiryo by the college brochure when I was in high school. I hadn't decided about my future yet, so I wanted to challenge new things and improve myself. Then, I came to the open college. That time, I heard their experience of America from some senior students. They sounded wonderful. I wanted to be like them. Fortunately, my parents agreed with my opinion, and they cheered me up. However, the reality was difficult to face after I entered college. I was dissapointed by my low English skills. I took a TOEIC test before I went to the U.S., but the score wasn't good. I was very anxious.

However, I enjoyed spending time in the U.S. by my effort. First, I realized that I could communicate with anyone to use my mind. I really cared too much about correct grammar, but it wasn't that important. Also, I asked many questions in class. The instructors didn't care about me if I didn't ask anything. Instead, they explained in detail if I asked something. I also realized that I couldn't improve myself if I didn't do anything.

I improved two things for the 6 months. One is my personality. I wasn't a flexible person and was stick to my mistakes, but I am not like that now. I can resolve problems myself even if I have one. The other is my speaking skills to express ideas clearly. It is important for communication. In the past, I couldn't say “no” even when I didn't want to do something, but I can now. My friends and my family said to me, “You're changed yourself.” I think that I have improved these two things.

Also, I met a lot of people from foreign countries, and my opinion about each coutry has changed. I couldn't have met them if I had only lived in Japan. I realized that the world is big after I experienced cultures and ideas of each country.

After I finished the study abroad program, I thought that I should have studied English harder when I was in junior high school and high school. Also, I wanted to experience more in the U.S. I got satisfied for studying abroad, though.

If you are interested in English, and you want to go to the U.S., to change yourself, or to challenge new things, I recommend you joining the study abroad program at Seiryo. You can improve yourself after you make efforts.

Finally, I'm thankful to my family, my teachers, my friends, and people who I met in the U.S. You cheered me up, helped me out, and welcomed me. Thank you very much, everyone.

It was a wonderful experience!