• TWCU Summer Programs
  • The University of York
  • What was the most memorable/impressive experience?
    The most memorable thing was a presentation made in the last week of my stay in the UK. I worked in a group of three and researched about gender equality in the UK and Japan. We had to conduct a survey about gender on forty people in the city. At first, it was hard for me to even talk to people because I wasn't confident in my English, and sometimes they rejected our interview. Although it took a lot of time, there was no resistance to speak English. Besides, through the experience of analyzing the data and making the presentation in English, I could feel such a sense of accomplishment. It gave me confidence.
  • What skill did you gain the most (academically or socially)?
    I could improve my communication skill that I can tell my thoughts directly. I experienced homestay with two Germans. At first, I wanted to talk with them, so I asked them questions and they answered. But, I couldn't understand what they said. I felt sorry for this one-way communication, and I got frustrated that I couldn't speak English. Sometimes I used Google translation, and I even given up speaking. But, they always cheered me up and said, "Your English is great!" It gave me confidence, and I finally noticed that the most important thing is to speak anyway even if the grammar and words are wrong.
  • What are you putting your most effort into right now?
    I keep studying English for IELTS. I planned to study abroad in Canada this year. Despite the fact that I already got the admission permits, I wasn't able to go there because of the Coronavirus pandemic. I was disappointed, but in a way, this is a big chance for me. If I get a better score at IELTS, I could go to a higher-level university. I hope things will return to normal soon, and I'll never give up.