A New Challenge at 63!Joe’s English Journey in Cebu After Retirement

Introduction

“I’m too old now.”
“It’s too late to learn English.”
Such phrases never crossed Joe’s mind. At 63 years old, he courageously took a new step forward in life.

After retiring from a long career as a local government employee, Joe finally found himself with the most valuable resource: free time. He decided to dedicate that time to something he had always wanted to do—study English. His destination: Cebu, Philippines.

Surrounded by much younger classmates, Joe steadily improved his English at his own pace. His journey is a shining example of lifelong learning in the era of 100-year lifespans.

In this article, we share Joe’s motivations, his daily life and learning experience in Cebu, and his plans for using English after retirement—offering a genuine look into senior study abroad.

1. Why Now? The Desire to Learn Sparked by Retirement

“I had never worked in a job that required English,” Joe says.

Indeed, throughout his long career in public service, English was never a necessity. But deep down, the desire—and frustration—had always been there.

One turning point was his son’s experience studying abroad. Hearing his son’s stories about life overseas made Joe realize just how much English could open up the world.

After retirement, Joe traveled to Europe several times. But on each trip, he found himself thinking, “If only I could speak English, I’d enjoy this so much more.”

“Even simple things—asking something at a hotel or airport—became a struggle. I couldn’t follow explanations during tours. It was frustrating.”

These accumulated frustrations led him to a serious decision: to finally face English head-on.

With retirement came the freedom of time—a rare and precious resource. That’s when Joe decided: now is the time to act.

“You should do what you want to do while you’re still healthy. I’ve always felt like English was unfinished business in my life.”

He admits there were moments of doubt—starting something new at 63 can be daunting. But the fear of regret was stronger.
“I didn’t want to reach the end of my life and think, ‘I never even tried.’”

2. Why Cebu? And the Warm Support of His Family

Once Joe decided to study English, the next question was: where?

He considered the U.S., Australia, and other Western countries. But in the end, he chose Cebu, Philippines—and for good reason.

“With my current English level, I thought studying in the West would be overwhelming. I’d probably lose confidence and give up. But in the Philippines, one-on-one lessons are common, and the teachers are kind. It seemed like the perfect place for beginners.”

Another major factor was cost. On a fixed income, studying long-term in Western countries just wasn’t realistic. In Cebu, Joe could afford tuition, meals, and accommodation—without breaking the bank.

He carefully researched schools online—reading reviews and comparing curriculums, locations, and facilities. Among them, 3D ACADEMY stood out.

“The location was convenient, and their curriculum focused on speaking, which is exactly what I needed. Plus, each class was 50 minutes long—just the right length to stay focused.”

The school’s reputation for good food also caught his attention—an important consideration for a long-term stay. Looking back, he says with a smile, “The meals were even better than I expected.”

But more than anything, it was the support of his family that made his dream possible.

“My wife immediately told me to go for it—‘You should do what you can while you’re healthy.’ Honestly, she was more positive than I was.”

His son also cheered him on, saying how wonderful it was to take on such a meaningful challenge.

With his family’s encouragement, Joe made the leap—and turned his vision of studying abroad at 63 into reality.

3. Starting from Zero: Joe’s Struggles and Growth at 3D ACADEMY

Joe took the placement test immediately after arriving in Cebu.
“It was much harder than I expected,” he says with a wry smile.
The test covered listening, speaking, and grammar—and it was long. From day one, it was mentally and physically exhausting.

“The first week was tough. I was just trying to keep up with the classes. But looking back, I think that sense of urgency actually helped me stay focused. It made me realize I needed to take this seriously.”

One of the major strengths of 3D ACADEMY is its one-on-one lesson system. Joe found this particularly beneficial.

“In group classes, it can be intimidating to speak up. But in one-on-one sessions, the teacher adapts to your level and pace. You don’t have to worry about making mistakes. It’s the perfect environment to improve speaking skills.”

His teachers balanced speaking practice with grammar and pronunciation, adjusting to Joe’s needs. Thanks to their patient and encouraging support, his fear of English gradually began to fade.

In addition to one-on-one lessons, Joe took three group classes: Movie Understanding, TOEIC, and Formal and Informal English. These were assigned based on his initial test results and remained unchanged throughout his stay.

“Most of the students in the group classes were young, but everyone was kind. The topics were practical and interesting. In Movie Understanding, for example, we discussed scenes from films. It helped me learn natural expressions.”

Although he started with concerns about his age, Joe soon found himself blending in as “just another student.”
In the classroom, both teachers and students treated him equally—age wasn’t a factor.

“No one treated me differently—not the teachers, not the younger students. That made me really happy. It made me feel like I truly belonged.”

As Joe spoke about his classes, his face lit up with confidence and quiet joy.

4. Campus Life with a Younger Generation

At 3D ACADEMY, most students are in their 20s or 30s.
Some are taking a break from university, others are early-career professionals, and many are preparing for working holidays abroad.
In that mix, 63-year-old Joe was certainly a rare addition—but a welcome one.

“I was a bit worried at first—would I feel out of place? But honestly, I had nothing to worry about. Everyone was so warm and welcoming. I fit in right away.”

While there were differences in lifestyle and topics of conversation, Joe didn’t see them as barriers.
Instead, he viewed them as inspiring differences.

“Everyone was so motivated—pursuing their goals and dreams. Seeing that energy made me think, ‘I still have a lot left to do, too.’
I might’ve been ‘the older classmate,’ but I believe we encouraged each other in a meaningful way.”

Joe’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. His focused attitude had a positive influence on many younger students.
During breaks and meals, he often found himself surrounded by friendly classmates eager to chat.

“They’d say things like, ‘It’s amazing that you’re studying abroad at 63!’ But honestly, I’d respond, ‘You’re the amazing ones—having this experience while you’re young!’” (laughs)

Language schools bring people together who all share one goal: to learn. That shared purpose breaks down barriers of age and background.

Joe’s time in Cebu wasn’t just about studying English—it was about building bonds across generations.
Those connections, he says, became one of the greatest treasures of his study abroad experience.

“At first, I was so conscious of being the oldest one there. But as time passed, I stopped thinking that way. I was just another learner—just a student like everyone else.”

5. Meals, Daily Life, and Study Routine — A Realistic Look from a Senior Perspective

Life in Cebu wasn’t just about learning English. For Joe, a senior student, every aspect of daily life—his routine, meals, and physical well-being—was part of the learning experience.

“I woke up every day at 6:00 AM and did some light preparation before class. That’s when my mind is sharpest. I’d have breakfast, attend four morning classes, eat lunch, take afternoon classes, then have dinner. In the evening, I’d go to the gym and then review the day’s lessons. I was usually in bed by midnight.”

It was a surprisingly disciplined routine—something Joe hadn’t followed in years.

Homework was given daily, and the lessons weren’t easy. But thanks to the school’s strong support system, he was able to focus fully on his studies without distractions.

“The school took care of everything—cleaning, laundry—it was a huge help. The room was clean and comfortable. It was the ideal setup for someone who wanted to study while living abroad.”

And when it came to food, Joe was pleasantly surprised.

“As a Japanese person, I did miss raw vegetables from time to time, but honestly, the meals were well-balanced and thoughtfully planned. Some days we had Filipino dishes with a twist, and other times it was close to Japanese flavors. I was very satisfied.”

Joe’s daily schedule included six to seven classes per day, primarily one-on-one sessions in the morning and afternoon, with group classes in between. This intensive, customized curriculum was perfect for his pace and energy level.

“The 50-minute class length was just right. Any longer and it might’ve been exhausting; any shorter and it wouldn’t have felt productive. I think it was very well thought out.”

He also took care of his health by exercising regularly. In many ways, 3D ACADEMY offered a lifestyle built entirely around focused learning—a lifestyle that suited Joe perfectly.

6. The Reality of a Different World — Cebu Through Joe’s Eyes

Cebu is known internationally as a destination for English learners, but as Joe discovered, it’s also a place where contrasting realities coexist.

“Cebu is the second-largest city in the Philippines and a popular tourist destination. But walking through the city, I saw roads that were unpaved and children living on the streets. That really broke my heart.”

Coming from a well-developed country like Japan, these scenes were shocking—and deeply moving.

“This trip made me realize just how privileged my life has been. Studying abroad isn’t just about learning in the classroom—it’s about seeing and feeling the world as it truly is.”

The contrast between the school’s clean, structured environment and the outside city life left a strong impression on Joe.

“The local people are so cheerful and kind. But life isn’t easy for them. Watching how hard they work and how positively they live despite their circumstances… it really struck me. It was a world I never would have encountered if I’d stayed in Japan.”

These experiences inspired Joe to think beyond his original goal.

“At first, I came here just to learn English. But now I feel like I want to use that English to contribute to something. Maybe volunteer work, maybe helping people in need. That idea only came to me after seeing the real Cebu with my own eyes.”

Through learning English, Joe didn’t just prepare himself for future travels—he opened a window to understand the world more deeply. His time in Cebu became a life lesson far beyond language.

7. Using English as a Tool to Live Life More Freely

The biggest reason Joe decided to study English abroad was simple: he wanted the freedom to travel.

After retirement, he longed to live more fully, more authentically—and he knew that English would be essential to achieving that.

“From now on, I don’t want to rely on package tours. I want to walk around freely, at my own pace, talk with local people, and explore off-the-beaten-path places. I truly believe English will make that possible.”

Through his study abroad experience in Cebu, Joe steadily moved closer to this dream.

He became more confident speaking with international students and started using phrases he learned in class out in the real world. Most importantly, he began to see results: his monthly test scores gradually improved, and with them, his confidence.

“At first, I was nervous to say even a single word. But now, I can feel the joy of being understood. That’s a huge change.”

Alongside his original goal of travel, a new ambition began to grow within him: to use English for social contribution.

“I haven’t decided exactly how, but I’d like to use English to help others—whether in Japan or abroad. Volunteering, perhaps. If I can contribute in some way, that would be very fulfilling.”

Joe has also committed to continuing his English studies after returning home. For him, this experience wasn’t the end of a journey—it was the beginning of a new one.

“Knowing English expands your options—not just for travel, but for life itself. And let me say this again: age doesn’t matter. If you have the desire to learn, you can start anytime, at any age.”

Joe’s journey is far from over. In fact, at 63, he has only just opened a new door.

Where that door will lead—what kind of life and experiences await him—only time will tell. But one thing is certain: through English, he’s discovering a freer, more fulfilling path forward. And his story is sure to inspire the next generation of senior learners ready to take their own first step.

日本語でこの記事を読む：
63歳からの挑戦！定年後に選んだセブ島シニア留学｜Joeさんの英語奮闘記