It has been almost three months since I started studying in Baguio. Three months in Korea feels so long but my three months here in Monol went by so fast.
I have a week left before I return to Korea… If only I could turn back time, I would go back three months to when I just started!
In my stay here, I noticed some changes after in me after studying for three months.
1. Confidence
In my case, I have been learning English since third grade. Since then, I have been studying English daily until I graduated from university. Although, strangely, when I meet native English speakers or people who speak English fluently, I could not say a word to them when I had the chance to talk.
Not only did I lack confidence in my English skills, but I also felt awkward when trying to speak English too.
One of the biggest changes in me over the past three months is that I no longer feel burdened when using and speaking English. I speak English for eight hours a day with my teachers. I also speak English with my roommates and friends during our free time. I can express my thoughts in English. Sure, it is far from being very fluent but that is already a big change for me.
2.Improve your practical English
For example, we learn the most Basic English words in Korea. With that, I think there are huge differences from the English Koreans who are familiar with the English that is used. I knew a lot of English words when I was in Korea but I did not know how to use those words naturally. As a result, they usually did not fit the context I was speaking from.
Now, I can use words that are appropriate for each situation. Through real conversations, I could feel and distinguish what felt awkward and apply changes. I think this was a great help to me.
3.Willingness to study further
Finally, I want to say that studying English is the starting point in my life. The first reason I came to Baguio to study English is because of the working holiday in Australia. I wanted to learn enough Basic English so I could land a job. Now, my goals have changed. At first, I was already satisfied with learning conversational English but after three months of studying in Monol, I grew interested in the English language.
If I get the chance, I would like to try studying abroad in an English-speaking country after the end of the working holiday. Thanks to Monol, I can dream a new dream!
This phrase is related to success. My reading teacher wrote it in class last term. When interpreted, it means ‘Don’t be afraid, challenge without fear!’ It means so much.
I only have one week left in Baguio. Next time I will tell you what you need to do before returning to Korea when you have finished your language studies.