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When
I was in high school, I was not good at English, but I just liked
English classes. When I visited Seiryo Junior College for its
open campus, the teachers said to me,“Going
abroad changes your life.” I
was moved by the words, so I
entered Seiryo
Junior College to grow myself and try new things. I didn't intend
to study abroad at first. I joined volunteer work as an
interpreter for an international cruise ship as soon as entering
the college. However, my English level was very low, so I
couldn’t talk with people from other countries. I was
shocked, but I still felt it was fun. After the volunteer work, I
wanted to improve my English and talk with people from other
countries more. There was an orientation
meeting for studying
abroad. While
listening to Ms. Seki, senior students and Stephanie, I wanted to
study abroad. I talked with my parents many times, and then I
decided to study abroad for six months. Even though I had a lot
of anxieties and worries, I believed in myself.
After
arriving in America, I had a
mental battle.
To begin with, I was shocked with my English level because it was
very low. I couldn't express what I wanted to say in English and
couldn't catch the words people said. I
couldn’t communicate at all. As a result, I was afraid of
mistakes or anxieties
and lost confident. Meanwhile, I made friends during the
orientation at GRC. Making friends became my motivation, and I
proactively started a conversation with people. When school
started, I was struggling to keep up with my classes. However,
when I didn’t understand, my teachers and friends helped me
out every time. Although I lost confidence many times comparing
my English level to others', my friends encouraged me. It was an
emotional support for me.
I
have been very careful about how I communicate with people.
Especially, I tried speaking English without giving up. Even if I
made a mistake, people understood what I said. At the beginning,
I felt very embarrassed to make a mistake, so I wasn't
aggressive. After I changed my mind, I didn't feel embarrassed
about the mistakes at all. Moreover, I stopped answering vaguely.
I had to have my own opinions, so I paid attention to them. I
think that just changed my mind, and I was able to grow myself.
My
English motivation
increased
by going to study abroad. Although my English is still poor, I
have been learning English hard since I came back to Japan. Also,
I
had a great time because
many people supported me very much in this studying abroad
program. Thanks to everyone around me, I didn't get homesick and
I was excited and enjoyed every day. Studying abroad was a big
decision for me, but I was able to change my life.
I
want to live without regret.
That's why I will try new things and believe in myself from now
on.
Finally,
I really appreciate my family, my teachers, Mr. Yokoyama of the
travel agency, and the two friends I went to study abroad with.
Thank you very much.
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