Few Japanese Students at WINNING, So Everyone—Taiwanese, Japanese, and Saudis—Got Along Well!

Student Spotlight: An Interview with Nao on Her Experience at WINNING

At WINNING, every student has a unique journey. This time, we sat down with Nao, a 27-year-old former nurse from Japan, to hear about her experience studying English in the Philippines.

Issa: Please introduce yourself.

Nao: My name is Nao, and I am 27 years old. I was a nurse in Japan, but I resigned and came to WINNING. Nice to meet you.

Issa: Thank you. First question: Why did you choose WINNING among the many language schools in the Philippines?

Nao: I originally had an agent for study abroad consultations and was planning to go to a language school called CPI. However, I encountered some troubles and was struggling. At that time, the English conversation school I was attending (which also functions as a study abroad agent) introduced me to WINNING, so I chose this school. Apparently, that English conversation school had never sent students to WINNING before, so I was the first. The reason I chose WINNING is that, unlike other schools which have a Sparta policy, WINNING has no curfew and is relatively cheaper than other schools.

Issa: Thank you. Next question: You have been staying at WINNING for about a month now. What do you think are the good points about WINNING?

Nao: When I arrived a month ago, there were not many people at the school, so Taiwanese, Japanese, and Saudi Arabian students all got along well and didn’t just stick to their own groups. When I first arrived, I couldn’t speak English at all, but everyone was kind and treated me equally regardless of my English ability. I found that very comforting.

Issa: All the students are very friendly, right?

Nao: Yes, exactly. This is the first time I’ve communicated with Saudis, and they told me they can become friends within five minutes of meeting, which made me realize the cultural differences. (laughs)

Issa: Next question: What do you think about the classes and teachers at WINNING?

Nao: I think this applies not only to WINNING, but the distance between teachers and students is close, for better or worse. Honestly, sometimes I find it tiring. In Japan, typically, there is a clear structure where students follow the teachers. Even if you get along well with the teacher, there’s a professional distance. Here, the teachers are closer. You can see it as being friendly, but sometimes it tires me out.

Issa: That’s true. The relationship is friendly for better or worse. Some teachers even hang out with students in their free time.

Nao: Yes, exactly. That’s why I balance by creating some alone time or chatting with close friends during off-hours.

Issa: Outside of school, do you have any fun memories in Cebu?

Nao: I enjoyed the times when I went out to eat or had dinner with friends from different countries on weekends! There’s no specific place, but it’s more about who you go with rather than where you go.

Issa: That’s a great perspective! Lastly, would you recommend WINNING to your friends or people considering studying abroad?

Nao: I would recommend it! However, I would also explain the point about the close relationship with teachers. Some people might find that environment tough, just like me. But the freedom of school rules and the cost-effectiveness are definitely points I can recommend!

Issa: Thank you very much!