Atsushi Komiya (40s), in-house SE (Server Side Engineer), study in the Philippines (2 weeks). English level 3 (Low Intermediate) → level 4 (High Intermediate)
What made you decide to study in the Philippines?
I usually maintain applications used in accounting work, and I need English for my job. Meetings with overseas offices are in English, and so are chats and emails. Application documentation is in English, so I also need reading skills.
This time I studied in the Philippines for self-development. I had wanted to improve my English but hadn’t taken action, so I took the plunge and did a language study program.
How was the school’s curriculum?
I think it’s good for professionals. The content is business-focused, so I can imagine it being useful in my future work.In the Project Management lessons I learned practical words and idioms that fit my actual work.
How was the Speech Workshop?
The impromptu speeches in particular improved my ability to respond quickly. They also clarified the challenges in my English. I feel it was a good opportunity.
How was the Real Meeting?
Talking with people in Manila in jobs similar to mine gave me a chance to speak more practical English.
Was the program useful for your development? Please share your thoughts on how it will help your career.
I think my experience in the Philippines helped me grow not only in language but also in communication, expression and my way of thinking (through feeling differences in culture and lifestyle).
Have you found the lessons useful in your current work?
Yes — when speaking up in English meetings and in chat exchanges.
What are your plans going forward?
Now that I know what to improve in my English, I want to keep improving.
Finally, please tell us your impressions of the Philippines.
The sunset over Manila Bay was beautiful. The fountain show at Okada Manila (a casino resort) is free. I think it’s good to try various local foods unique to the Philippines (like balut).
If you want to master business English efficiently, please see the details of studying in the Philippines.