A Journey to Rediscover Her Love for English

Mina’s Study Abroad Experience in Cebu After Leaving Her Job

“I want to live using English.”
That’s the realization Mina came to through her study abroad experience.

After following an English-focused academic path in high school and junior college, Mina found herself working in a job where she never used English.

“Is this really what I want?”
That sense of disconnect gradually grew, and in her third year as a working adult, she made the bold decision to quit her job. Her next step: a language study program in Cebu, Philippines.

Before leaving, Mina was full of concerns:

“Isn’t the Philippines dangerous?”
“Will my English actually improve?”
But her days at 3D ACADEMY quickly proved otherwise, replacing worry with confidence and the joy of truly “using” English.

In this article, based on Mina’s real experience, we’ll dive into:

• Why she chose Cebu

• What her classes at 3D were like

• How her English skills and daily life evolved

• The future she envisions after graduation

If you’ve ever thought,

“I love English, but I’m not confident enough”
“Is it too late to start as an adult?”
Mina’s story may be just the encouragement you need.

Chapter 1: Why I Wanted to Reconnect with English

I’ve Loved English Since Junior High School

Mina first became interested in English back in junior high school. She enjoyed reading English texts and speaking with ALT teachers, and a natural desire to “speak more fluently” began to grow.

To pursue that passion, she chose a high school with a specialized English curriculum and later majored in English literature at junior college. There, she was exposed to a broad range of English skills—grammar, reading, public speaking, and listening. At the time, she vaguely imagined herself using English in her future career.

The Reality: A Job Where English Had No Place

However, after graduation, Mina joined a major insurance company. Her work was primarily clerical, and there was no opportunity to use English at all.

“I took the job out of a vague sense of urgency—‘I need to find work’—but three years passed and I started thinking, ‘Is this really what I want to be doing?’”

Despite spending years studying English, she now found herself not using it at all. This disconnect led to mounting frustration.

“I’ve been studying English for so long… why am I not using it? What was the point of all that effort?”

Meanwhile, several of her coworkers had done working holidays abroad. Hearing their stories stirred something inside her.

Inspired by Others, and Realizing: “I Really Do Love English”

Everyone who had done a working holiday spoke positively about the experience. They seemed confident and joyful when they talked about using English in daily life.

“I want to be like them—living abroad and using English every day.”
“I want to reconnect with English, seriously this time.”

That’s when “studying abroad” started to feel like a real, tangible option for Mina.
And in her third year of work, she made the decision to resign—and challenge herself with both a language study program and a working holiday.

Chapter 2: Why I Chose Cebu – The Case for Studying in the Philippines

At First, Australia Was the Only Option in My Mind

Mina’s first plan after quitting her job was to head straight to Australia for a working holiday.
She had already experienced a three-month homestay there during high school, and was familiar with the atmosphere. The weather suited her, and she had always dreamed of living there again.

But she also had one big concern: her current level of English.

“It’s been a while since I studied… can I really handle a native English-speaking environment right away?”
“If I want to use English at work, I really need to focus on speaking skills.”

That’s when she began to think she might need a “step zero”—a place to re-learn and rebuild her English foundation first.

I Only Discovered Cebu Recently

Around that time, Mina started seeing more posts and videos about studying English in Cebu on social media.
Up until then, the idea of studying English in the Philippines hadn’t even crossed her mind. But the more she read reviews and experiences, the more she felt drawn to it.

Three main points stood out:

• It’s affordable (great cost performance)

• You can take one-on-one lessons

• The study environment is immersive and intensive

In Australia, group classes are the norm—and it can be hard to get enough speaking time. But in Cebu, you can have six one-on-one lessons per day, which perfectly suited Mina’s goal of speaking as much as possible.

Honestly, I Was Scared to Go to the Philippines

Despite the appeal, the decision wasn’t easy. Mina had many doubts.

“Isn’t the Philippines dangerous?”
“Is it hygienic?”
“What’s this I hear about weird smells?”

The more she searched online, the more anxious she became.

“To be honest, I only chose the Philippines because I thought I had to—just to improve my English.”

But once she arrived…

“It was way better than I imagined. Actually, I had a blast!”

The beautiful beaches, fun activities, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living—everything about Cebu began to feel like a pleasant surprise.
Soon enough, Mina found herself thinking:

“I’m so glad I came.”

Chapter 3: My Experience at 3D ACADEMY – A Personalized Learning Style

I Let the Agent Choose the School—And It Was the Right Call

Mina attended one of Cebu’s most popular language schools: 3D ACADEMY.
Interestingly, she didn’t choose the school herself—it was recommended by the study abroad agent she consulted.

“I feel a little guilty saying this, but honestly, I just went with the school my agent suggested, saying, ‘This would be a good fit for you’ (laughs).”

But once she arrived, she realized it was the perfect environment for her. From the atmosphere and teacher quality to the location and dorm comfort—it all clicked.

Six One-on-One Lessons a Day—Focusing Fully on Speaking

Mina chose a schedule with six one-on-one lessons per day—a decision she had made even before enrolling.

“Group classes are easy to find in Australia. But in the Philippines, I wanted to take full advantage of the one-on-one format and really practice speaking.”

This strategy worked. With more time to speak and more attention from instructors, she found herself becoming the main character in every class—and her output skyrocketed.

Fully Customizable Lessons—Even Casual Conversations Count

One of the things Mina appreciated most about 3D ACADEMY was the freedom to customize each class.
Depending on the teacher and the student’s goals, the lessons could focus on grammar with textbooks, conversational skills, free talk, or even real-world roleplays.

“Every teacher had a different style. Some days it felt like we just chatted, but even that was valuable—it was still time spent speaking English.”

She especially enjoyed lessons focused on American idioms and phrases useful at restaurants. These were the kinds of things she could use immediately, and she found herself quickly applying what she learned.

The Streets of Cebu Became My Real-World Classroom

Mina didn’t stop practicing once class was over. She put her new vocabulary and phrases to use during outings around Cebu—ordering food, paying the bill, taking taxis.

“When I used what I’d learned and people understood me, I was so excited! That moment of ‘I did it!’ really boosted my confidence.”

This constant cycle of learning and real-world application made her experience feel truly immersive. It was this synergy between classroom and life that made 3D ACADEMY such a special place for her.

“Thanks to this environment, I started thinking: English is fun again.”

Chapter 4: How My English Improved—And the Confidence I Gained

I Wanted to Change the “I Can Write but Can’t Speak” Version of Myself

With her academic background in English, Mina had always been confident in grammar and reading. But speaking was a different story.

“I was comfortable writing, but speaking? That terrified me. I always worried about making mistakes.”

Fortunately, the one-on-one lessons at 3D ACADEMY helped her gradually replace fear with familiarity.

Speaking English Every Day Helped Me Overcome My Fear

Having six conversations a day with instructors meant that Mina was constantly using English, even when it felt awkward at first. But the teachers were friendly and supportive, and their encouragement helped her break through her hesitation.

“Talking every day made the fear go away. Eventually, speaking English actually became fun.”

She also made it a habit to practice new words and phrases immediately, turning every lesson into an opportunity for reinforcement and growth.

My TOEIC Score Went Up—Thanks to Better Listening Skills

Although she wasn’t studying for TOEIC specifically, Mina saw her score increase. She attributes this to the sheer volume of English she was exposed to each day.

“My ears adjusted to the rhythm and sounds of English. I could understand so much more, and that gave me a lot of confidence.”

Immersing herself in an English-speaking environment—even for a relatively short period—led to a noticeable transformation.

I Remembered Why I Loved English in the First Place

More than anything, Mina’s biggest takeaway was that she rediscovered her passion for English.

“Being able to speak made me realize—English is really fun. I’m happy that I can finally use it as my own skill again.”

This renewed confidence didn’t just improve her language skills—it expanded her vision for the future.
English had become more than a subject. It was now a tool for living, connecting, and building a new chapter in life.

Chapter 5: Life Outside the Classroom — Beaches, Friendship, and a Bit of Luxury

Weekend Trips to the Beach Became the Norm

Before arriving in Cebu, Mina didn’t expect much from her day-to-day life outside class.

“I thought I’d just relax in my room after lessons.”

But her actual experience turned out to be a delightful surprise.

“I never imagined I’d end up going to the beach every single weekend!” (laughs)

From white-sand beaches and snorkeling to island hopping adventures, Cebu is full of irresistible blue temptations.
Every weekend felt like a mini-vacation, offering not only a break from studying but also opportunities to practice English in real-life situations with locals.

Friendship Beyond Borders — Bonding with a Taiwanese Classmate

One of her closest companions during her stay was a Taiwanese classmate from her batch—a student who joined 3D ACADEMY the same week.

Despite coming from different countries and backgrounds, they quickly grew close through shared experiences and goals.

“We’d go shopping, eat out together… Language and cultural differences didn’t matter. We laughed so much, and I really enjoyed every moment with her.”

Naturally, English became their common language. Even outside the classroom, Mina was constantly using English, gaining fluency through everyday conversations.

Living Large in Cebu—Before Heading to Australia

Cebu’s low cost of living also helped make Mina’s study abroad experience even more enjoyable.
Eating out, traveling, and weekend excursions didn’t break the bank—compared to Japan, everything felt more affordable.

“At first, I worried I was spending too much. But then I thought, ‘Australia is going to be so expensive—I should enjoy myself now while I can!’” (laughs)

This mindset shift allowed her to enjoy life abroad, not just focus on studying—a valuable experience for her upcoming working holiday and potential international career.

Learning and Fun Were All Part of the English Experience

People often picture language learning as sitting at a desk with a textbook. But for Mina, the whole lifestyle in Cebu was part of her English learning journey:

• Chatting with locals at the beach

• Reading menus and ordering food at restaurants

• Speaking English with friends daily

“It might look like I was just having fun, but all of it was practice. I was speaking English the whole time.”

Mina’s life in Cebu was a perfect blend of learning and leisure—a vivid chapter filled with joy, growth, and confidence.

Chapter 6: Dorm Life, Meals, and Daily Comforts — The Honest Truth

Surprisingly Comfortable Dorm Life—No Bugs or Rats!

When people think of studying in the Philippines, one of the biggest concerns is the living environment.

“Will there be bugs? Is the bathroom clean?”
Mina had the same worries before arriving.

But once she moved into the dorm at 3D ACADEMY…

“Honestly, it was so much more comfortable than I expected! No bugs, no rats, and the cleaning staff came often.”

The dorm was well-maintained, clean, and fully functional. Showers and toilets worked without issue, making the space perfectly livable even for first-time international students.

Wi-Fi That Actually Works

While internet quality in the Philippines can vary by location, 3D’s dorm passed the test.
Mina was able to do homework, stream videos, and make video calls without major issues.

“There were a few slow moments, but overall, it worked just fine.”

She could keep in touch with family and friends through LINE and social media, without feeling disconnected from home.

The Food? Not Great at First—But It Grows on You

3D ACADEMY provides three meals a day. Mina admits that at first, she wasn’t a huge fan.

“To be honest, I was like… ‘hmm…’ in the beginning. But I got used to it pretty quickly!” (laughs)

Meals are generally tailored for Asian students and include flavors familiar to Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese palates. Some days feature Korean-style dishes, others have Taiwanese influences.

“Now I even have favorite dishes. I think I’ll miss the food once I’m back in Japan.”

Location, Price, and Teachers—Everything Was Just Right

One of 3D ACADEMY’s strongest points is its convenient location. Shopping malls, restaurants, and cafés are all within walking distance.

“I loved how I could just walk to get groceries or grab dinner after class.”

The school’s tuition was also affordable compared to other language schools, and the quality of instruction exceeded her expectations.

“It wasn’t a case of ‘you get what you pay for.’ It felt like a hidden gem—great teachers at a great price.”

Any Downsides? …Honestly, Not Really

When asked to share any negative points, Mina paused for a while before replying:

“Hmm… honestly, nothing comes to mind.”

Of course, no place is perfect. But looking back on her experience as a whole, she had no major complaints—just fond memories of her time in Cebu.

Chapter 7: What I Want Future Students to Know

Honestly, I Didn’t Want to Go to the Philippines at First

Although Mina ended up loving her study abroad experience in Cebu, she admits that her feelings before leaving Japan were far from positive.

“I’m a cautious person, so I honestly thought, ‘Why do I have to go to the Philippines?’”

Everything she had read online or seen in the news painted a negative picture—safety concerns, hygiene issues, bad smells. She was understandably nervous.

“I chose the Philippines because I thought it was necessary for improving my English—not because I wanted to go. It felt like a compromise.”

But Once I Got There… It Was Actually Fun!

Despite her fears, once she arrived in Cebu, her impressions quickly changed.

“Yes, some places are dirty. Yes, there are smells. But once I started living here, none of that really bothered me.”

Locals were friendly, there were plenty of tourist spots to explore, and her daily life was filled with beaches, cafés, and shopping trips. Before she knew it, excitement had replaced anxiety.

“It was surprisingly easy to adapt. Now I wonder why I was so worried in the first place.”

Cebu Offers the Best of Both Worlds: Language and Leisure

At 3D ACADEMY, Mina could focus on serious language study during the week—and enjoy beaches, island hopping, shopping, and food trips on the weekends. For her, Cebu was the perfect balance of learning and fun.

“Sure, studying English can be tough. But Cebu is full of little rewards that make it all worthwhile.”

Most importantly, Mina gained a new kind of confidence:

“I realized that I really can live abroad like this. That was huge for me.”

To anyone still on the fence, she says:

“Take that first step. Cebu has so many wonderful things waiting—you won’t understand until you experience it yourself.”

Chapter 8: What I Brought—What Helped and What Didn’t

Must-Have Item: My Vocabulary Books

When asked what she was glad she brought, Mina didn’t hesitate:

“My vocabulary books—specifically the Target series (1000 / 1400 / 1900). I used them every day.”

Thanks to her school background, Mina already had a solid grasp of grammar. But in Cebu, following fast-paced conversations and lessons required a strong vocabulary.

“Just knowing more words made everything the teachers said easier to understand.”

Reviewing Grammar in Japan Was the Right Call

Since all lessons in Cebu are taught in English, many students find it tough at first to follow grammar explanations. Mina, however, had no such issue.

“If I hadn’t reviewed my grammar beforehand, I don’t think I could’ve followed lessons about things like the present perfect continuous.”

Her advice: make sure you have a solid foundation in grammar before arriving. It’ll make your time in class so much more productive.

“Try to get to a point where you can explain basic grammar in your own words. That’ll make a big difference.”

Most of My Stuff? Honestly, I Didn’t Need It

On the other hand, Mina found that she had overpacked for Cebu life.

“I brought a lot of daily items from Japan, but I could’ve bought all of them here.”

Cebu has large shopping malls, and nearly everything—clothes, toiletries, stationery—is readily available and much cheaper than in Japan.

“Looking back, I wish I’d packed lighter. The cost of living here is seriously amazing.”

What Helped vs. What Didn’t

Useful items:

• A foldable umbrella (great for sudden tropical rain)

• A portable charger (especially for long days out)

• One or two nicer outfits (for dinners or special occasions)

Not-so-useful items:

• Japanese shampoo and detergent (available locally)

• Too many pens and notebooks (local convenience stores had them)

• Multiple pairs of shoes (she only really used one or two)

Final Takeaway: Pack Light, But Prepare Your English

It’s easy to overprepare for something as unfamiliar as studying abroad. But Mina says that two things matter most: your language skills and your flexibility.

“Forget packing your suitcase full. If you come with the right mindset—and a decent handle on vocabulary and grammar—Cebu will take care of the rest!”

Chapter 9: Life After Graduation – What’s Next for Mina

After Studying in Cebu, Her Next Destination: Australia

After completing her language studies at 3D ACADEMY, Mina already had her next goal in sight: returning to Australia on a working holiday visa.

“I did a short study abroad program in Australia during high school, and I’ve always wanted to go back.”

Having strengthened her speaking skills in Cebu, she now plans to take the next step by gaining real work experience using English.

Four Months of Language School, Then Into the Workforce

Mina’s working holiday plan begins with four months of study at a local language school in Australia. After that, she plans to start working part-time to support herself.

“I want to put the English I learned in Cebu into action. I want to challenge myself and see if it really works in a real job.”

This marks a shift from “studying English” to “using English.” For Mina, her time in Cebu was the preparation phase for becoming a real-world English user.

Still Figuring Out Her Specific Dream

At this stage, Mina doesn’t have a specific job or company in mind. But she’s not in a rush—she’s more focused on expanding her horizons.

“Someday, I’d love to work abroad using English. But for now, I want to take it one step at a time and figure out what I really want to do.”

After studying abroad, she gained more than just English ability—she also gained the courage to jump into new environments. That’s opened up a world of possibilities for her.

Staying True to the Passion That Started It All

Mina’s love of English has been with her since high school. Although she drifted away from it during her time working in Japan, her experience in Cebu allowed her to rediscover her core motivation.

“I think I’ll always want to live a life where I can use English.”

Even if she doesn’t have a clear future vision yet, her passion for English will continue to guide her path forward. This journey will surely give her the strength and inspiration she needs for whatever comes next.

Chapter 10: Editor’s Note – The Power of “Loving English”

Through Mina’s story, one message came through clearly to our editorial team:

Loving something has the power to move your life in big ways.

Mina spent her high school and college years immersed in English, but her first job after graduation had nothing to do with the language. She worked hard in that role for three years, all the while feeling a growing sense of unease:

“Is this really what I want to be doing?”

Deep down, she knew the answer. She loved English—and that feeling never left her.

By listening to that inner voice and acting on it, Mina was able to face English again and rediscover the joy of speaking it.

“Once I started to speak it, I remembered how much fun English can be. It made me realize just how much I’ve always loved it.”

From one-on-one classes at 3D ACADEMY, to weekend adventures, to friendships with people from all over the world—every part of her Cebu experience helped her practice English and, more importantly, enrich her life.

Now, she’s getting ready for the next chapter in Australia. New experiences, new friends, and new growth await her there.

In the end, her greatest takeaway from studying abroad wasn’t just improved English skills—it was the courage and flexibility to thrive overseas.

A Message to Future Students:

If you’re considering studying abroad, and you’re feeling unsure…

Trust your passion—just like Mina did.

That one step forward might just lead you to a version of yourself you’ve never met before.

▶ Read this story in Japanese
留学で「英語が好き」を取り戻す旅へ｜社会人を経て再出発したMinaさんのセブ体験記