Extra credit blog: Experiences in an English-Language Class at a Korean University--GUO YING

 English Classroom Experience in the First Year

When I first entered university in Korea, I was both excited and nervous about taking English-language classes. These classes posed not only a linguistic challenge but also offered an opportunity for cross-cultural experiences. The entire class, including lectures, materials, and assignments, was conducted in English. It was an immersive learning environment that simultaneously motivated and pressured me to improve. At the beginning, I found it difficult to follow the professor’s lectures, especially when encountering specialized vocabulary and complex sentence structures. However, I realized that this initial struggle was normal. By preparing for classes in advance and reviewing the material afterward, I gradually improved my comprehension and adapted to the pace. One distinctive feature of these English classes was the emphasis on student participation and interaction. Group discussions and team projects were some of the most common teaching methods. During discussions, the professor would pose open-ended questions, and we were required to share our opinions in English. This was challenging for me because it involved quickly organizing my thoughts and expressing them clearly in a second language. Initially, I felt nervous and hesitant, fearing I might make mistakes. However, the supportive attitude of the professor and my classmates helped me overcome this fear and build confidence. Team projects were another memorable aspect of the classes. We were required to plan, collaborate, and deliver presentations or reports in English. Through this process, I not only improved my communication and collaboration skills but also learned the importance of teamwork. Working with international students in particular exposed me to diverse ways of thinking, which broadened my global perspective.English classes improved more than just my language skills—they also helped me develop practical skills. For instance, academic writing was a major focus. From structuring essays to mastering citation formats, every step was rigorously taught. This training deepened my understanding of English writing and helped me develop logical thinking and clear expression. Additionally, critical thinking was heavily emphasized. Unlike traditional teaching methods, these classes encouraged independent thought and problem-solving abilities. We were often required to analyze topics from multiple perspectives and present our ideas. For example, when discussing globalization, we analyzed its effects on the economy, culture, and society. This process allowed me to appreciate the depth and breadth of knowledge.                  

Gains from Cross-Cultural Exchange

A significant aspect of the English-language classes was cross-cultural exchange. The classes included many international students from various countries. By interacting with them, I not only improved my spoken English but also gained insight into different cultures. For instance, during a group project on environmental conservation, I worked with students from the United States, Japan, and India. We shared the policies and practices of our respective countries, which highlighted the power of diversity. I also introduced Korean culture to my international classmates, sharing information about traditional holidays, food, and social customs. This exchange allowed me to act as a cultural ambassador while deepening my understanding of my own heritage.Of course, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. At first, I often felt frustrated when I couldn’t understand the lectures or when I hesitated to speak in discussions. However, each challenge became an opportunity for growth. For instance, overcoming my nervousness during my first English presentation taught me that preparation and confidence are key to success. Academic pressure was another challenge. The workload in English classes was heavy, especially when it came to reading extensive materials and completing high-quality assignments. This pushed me to develop time management skills and learn how to extract key points efficiently.Over time, I gradually adapted to the English-speaking environment, and my language skills improved significantly. From understanding simple dialogues to fluently participating in discussions and writing complex academic papers, I felt proud of my progress. More importantly, I came to understand the true purpose of learning a language. English became more than just a tool for communication; it became a window to the world. Through English, I learned about different cultures, formed friendships with people from around the globe, and developed a more open and inclusive mindset.

Conclusion

My experiences in English-language classes at a Korean university have given me confidence for the future. I hope to continue using English as a tool to explore new fields of knowledge and share my ideas and experiences with others. These experiences have not only strengthened my academic abilities but also shaped my personal growth.Studying in English-language classes at a Korean university has been a journey full of challenges and rewards. It helped me overcome language barriers, enhance my academic skills, and expand my cultural awareness. Most importantly, it taught me how to approach the world with an open mind. These experiences will serve as a strong foundation for my future, enabling me to face new challenges confidently and embrace opportunities in an increasingly globalized world.