Maggie - UK
Why do you want to learn Japanese?
I decided to move to Japan because I wanted to discover a new culture, and I’d admired Japanese art, literature, martial arts, and pop culture for a long time. To really engage with a different culture, I think being able to communicate with the people around you is essential. I also want to become fluent in Japanese so I can enjoy my life here and fully participate in Japanese society.
Why did you choose Japan Switch?
I chose Japan Switch because the flexibility of having online lessons and being able to fit my studies around my busy schedule really appealed to me. I also liked that Japan Switch focuses on improving conversational ability, but uses textbooks to offer structured grammar study at the same time. This suited me as I felt that improving my speaking ability while mastering basic grammar would be the first steps to being able to practise Japanese more naturally in my daily life.
How are your lessons?
I’ve really enjoyed my lessons with all the teachers I have worked with at Japan Switch. We begin most lessons with a short chat, allowing me to practise expressing myself naturally and to learn useful new vocabulary related to my daily life, before we begin working on our textbook’s listening, grammar, and vocabulary exercises. I enjoy feeling like I’m progressing through the textbook, while also having the chance to talk about my daily life in Japanese and ask my teachers questions about Japanese language and culture.
How did Japan Switch surprise you?
I was surprised to be able to build such strong relationships with my teachers, even through online classes. They are always patient and friendly, and I always feel comfortable asking them if there’s anything I don’t understand. I feel really encouraged and well-supported by them every class!
Has your life changed since starting lessons with Japan Switch?
Since starting lessons at Japan Switch, I’ve felt much more comfortable chatting with my Japanese friends and navigating everyday life in Japan. Learning a wide range of grammar has particularly helped me communicate more effectively in Japanese, with much fewer understandings. I’m deeply grateful to everyone at Japan Switch for supporting me on my Japanese journey!
