Mari Shigenobu (30s), working professional, study in the Philippines 3 months
What made you decide to study in the Philippines?
My manager recommended it. Considering my age, I thought it was my last chance and joined. My usual work is supporting the management of the company’s SOPs (standard operating procedures) and SOP training. Related to that, I use English for emails with overseas members inside and outside the company and for creating materials. I will also use it for teleconferences and presentations in the future.
How was the curriculum?
I was a beginner, so I struggled with English itself. But I think the level was appropriate for what I needed to grow.Beyond English, I painfully realized how much I lacked in “having my own opinions”. At the start I also hit a wall there. Either way, I think it was the right level for understanding where I stood.
In particular, the Pay Me More, Negotiation and Corporate Leadership lessons required me to present my own opinions throughout, so I learned from a stage even before English.
How were the Filipino teachers?
They all studied the background material very hard, so there was no particular good or bad. I feel the difference was more about whether they matched my level at the time.
The ones that worked well for me were teachers who matched my level and patiently waited until I thought for myself and spoke up. On the other hand, when I felt something could be better, it was when their English was too fast for my level.
How was the Speech Workshop?
Not only English, but the speech, the theme and the process of reviewing my thinking up to the day were very educational.It was also a valuable chance to hear English speeches by people from other companies, which was very stimulating.
I feel the lessons I took here are useful in my current work. They taught me not only English itself but also to form my own opinions and act on my own initiative.As for English, I feel I can apply writing, reading and listening in my work.
Before joining, I felt strong resistance to English. After joining, I painfully realized how much of a disadvantage it is not to be able to use English. My way of thinking changed, so my approach changed — that is the biggest progress.
Now that your study is over, what are your plans?
I see it as just a starting line. I realized the road to English is long, so continuing is essential. I plan to join my company’s English program, English conversation cafés and online training.
Is there anything you felt in the Philippines that you would like to tell the next students?
My impression of the Philippines was completely different before and after coming. Of course, what I could learn in a short time was only one side, but I never imagined it was such an attractive country.
I want to spread more in Japan the warmth and hospitality of the people, which differs from what Japanese people imagine when they hear “the Philippines”.
If you want to master business English efficiently, please see the details of studying in the Philippines.