Wonbin Moon
Korea
Wonbin shared that the ELPI program felt special because classes were fully in English and interactive, with supportive teachers who made learning fun, even joking in class, which was a new experience. Activities like using Kahoot helped him better understand grammar, while living in Victoria and meeting kind, welcoming people helped her feel more confident and comfortable using English every day.
Which ELC program did you attend?
I attended the Intensive English (ELPI) program.
What made your ELC program special?
The reason it felt special was the relationship with the teachers and students. I had attended English academies in Korea before, but the classes there were very rigid and there was not much time to actually speak. However, here all classes were conducted in English, and my relationship with the teachers was very fun and engaging. For example, being able to joke in English was very surprising and a new experience for me. I think this kind of experience is only possible here.
What is the most memorable thing that happened to you as an ELC student?
I remember reviewing class content using Kahoot during lessons. Since we learned a lot of material, it was easy to get confused but organizing it through Kahoot made it much easier to understand. English grammar, which used to feel difficult, became more enjoyable.
Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?
I really liked how people would say something, even just a small greeting, when passing by strangers. I often enjoyed walking around West Bay, and while walking, people would greet me or compliment my clothes. Everyone felt very kind and friendly.
How did learning with students from other cultures change how you see the world?
Since there are many different cultures, I came here trying to let go of the idea that I am always right. Once I let go of that mindset, I found every culture interesting and wanted to learn more about them. I also realized how big the world is. Living only in Korea, I sometimes had a narrow way of thinking, but being here helped me let go of that pressure.
Did studying English with us open any new opportunities for you? What are you doing now?
Learning English gave me confidence, and because of that, I wanted to try many things here, so I participated in a Korean conversation volunteer activity. By taking that opportunity and continuing it, I was able to meet many people and make many plans. Currently, I have extended this program and am still studying, but after it ends, I plan to meet international friends in Korea or visit their countries and spend time together.
Advice for new students
I think the biggest concern is the new environment. Of course, I cannot say it will not be difficult—it will be. However, the people you meet here will listen to you and care about you. Some of my friends also had problems and reported them to the school, and the school handled them quickly and properly. One regret I had was being afraid to speak up because I did not want to make things bigger. Do not be afraid. You came here to be happy, and if you are struggling, something is wrong. You should keep expressing your concerns. No matter how kind people are, they cannot know your thoughts unless you tell them. Speak a lot and experience as much as you can.
What's Victoria like?
Living in Victoria was a very wonderful experience. Not only my school friends, but also people I met in daily life were kind, and I felt that everyone respected each other. Before coming to Victoria, I had only lived in Korea, so I was afraid of being abroad. But once I arrived, everyone made me feel equal, and that made me very happy.