Sonia (India)
Why do you want to learn Japanese?
I have been living in Japan since 2019 and have realized that, to integrate into the larger community, learning the local language is essential. Not only for our social lives but also to grow professionally, knowledge of the local language is a necessity. I am starting to establish my career in Japan and therefore I am learning Japanese which is one of the main criterions for working in Japan.
In the future, I wish to start my own culinary business in Japan. There are a plethora of Indian dishes that are delicious but unfortunately less popular globally. I want to introduce that aspect of Indian cuisine in Japan. At that time, knowing the Japanese language will help me to connect with the local people and the community.
Why did you choose Japan Switch?
I chose Japan Switch for learning Japanese mainly because after my research on which language school to opt for in Tokyo, I found that Japan Switch offers the most affordable lessons out of all schools. Also, I like to roam around the streets of Shinjuku after classes and that is why the school being in Shinjuku is a bonus.
In addition, the admin people are so friendly and warm that it slowly started to feel like a family. I highly recommend Japan Switch for beginners.
How are your lessons?
I take two group lessons a week where I share my classes with people from around the world. The lessons are very interactive, full of questions and answers, as well as role-plays. All these exercises make learning a fun activity. The timings of each group lesson are enough, neither too long nor too short, with a small break in between. The teachers are helpful, regular and friendly.
Sometimes the lessons overlap but it eventually helps one for revision. Change of lessons are also made easy through the students’ portal, and teachers’ make-up classes are also very accommodative.
How did Japan Switch surprise you?
First of all, I did not expect that learning Japanese (which is a difficult language with three different scripts) will eventually become so fun. Secondly, I was a little apprehensive about group lessons and if I’d be able to adjust with group learning but to my surprise group lessons seems to be more fun than private lessons.
The teachers make sure to attend to every student in the group to make sure we are all on the same page.
Has your life changed since starting lessons with Japan Switch?
Yes, I have certainly noticed a number of changes after 4 months of studying at Japan Switch. I feel a little more confident in conversing with local people, at groceries, restaurants or in general. Now, whenever I go out, I try to listen and understand what people around me are saying. Not eavesdropping though 😉 And a few times, I can make sense of what they are saying. That's a win for me!
I try to make sure I use less English with local people and more Japanese, and most importantly understand what the other person is saying. Before taking lessons, it was almost impossible for me and therefore, I am glad that I took the decision to study at Japan Switch.
I also took the JLPT N5 exam in July 2022 and my teachers immensely supported me and addressed any queries I had before the test.
★ A quick note from the Japan Switch Team ★
When Sonia first enrolled in Japan Switch, she seemed to be unsure and timid about her Japanese, but now she is enjoying it very much and has already reached Level 2!!
