3D UNIVERSAL ENGLISH INSITUTE INC
info@3d-universal.com
8:00-17:00(Mon-Fri)

Erin’s Story: Facing English for the First Time Through a Study Abroad Experience in Cebu

Erin’s Story: Facing English for the First Time Through a Study Abroad Experience in Cebu


✨ Introduction

This is the story of Erin, a freelance professional who designs restaurant interiors and creates menus in Japan. Since junior high school, she had barely touched English—but one day, she made a bold decision to study abroad at 3D ACADEMY, a language school in Cebu, Philippines.

Her initial motivation was simple: “If I could speak English, it would help with both work and travel.” But as her study abroad experience unfolded, that light-hearted reason gradually transformed into something deeper—a journey to rediscover her values and herself.

Through her first experience living abroad, Erin gained more than just language skills. She encountered new cultures, saw life from different perspectives, and found the courage to express who she really is. This article shares her real experiences in her own words.

If you’re thinking about studying abroad but still feel hesitant, we hope Erin’s story gives you the inspiration—and the courage—to take that first step.


Chapter 1: Why I Wanted to Learn English – Two Reasons That Led Me to Study Abroad

“It might open up more opportunities for my work if I could speak English.”
That simple thought was what first sparked Erin’s interest in studying abroad.

As a freelancer designing restaurant interiors and developing menus, Erin sometimes works directly at the restaurants she helps create. More and more, she found herself interacting with foreign customers. She began to feel that if she could communicate better in English, she could offer a much more satisfying experience to her guests. That sense of frustration gradually turned into motivation.

Another key factor that pushed her toward studying abroad was a sense of admiration.
She often traveled overseas with a close friend who was fluent in English and would act as an interpreter. Thanks to that, Erin never had to speak English herself and could enjoy the trips worry-free. But as she watched her friend engage confidently with locals, she found herself thinking, “I want to be like that someday.”

“Honestly, at first I just wanted to learn enough English for simple everyday conversation. But after coming to Cebu and experiencing the lessons, I naturally started to feel like I wanted to go deeper—to really understand and speak the language.”

What began as a purely practical skill—something useful for work or travel—soon transformed into something much more meaningful.
For Erin, English became a tool to expand her world. That was the beginning of a powerful shift in her mindset.




Chapter 2: My ESL Course Experience at 3D ACADEMY in Cebu

Erin enrolled in the ESL course at 3D ACADEMY, which consisted of four one-on-one classes and three group lessons per day.
At first, she was unsure whether a beginner like herself could really keep up—but within the first week, all her worries had completely disappeared.

English Doesn’t Feel Scary When the Teachers Are This Friendly

“Filipino teachers are amazing listeners. They’re so good at understanding what you’re trying to say, even if you struggle, that I always felt encouraged to speak more during class.”

Instead of being overwhelmed by difficult grammar or complex vocabulary, the lessons were carefully designed with clear examples and real-life situations. That made it much easier to understand, even as a beginner, and slowly eased her fear of speaking English.

What left the biggest impression on Erin was the closeness she felt with the teachers—something she had never experienced back in Japan.
In her previous one-on-one lessons in Japan, there always seemed to be a wall between student and teacher. But in Cebu, the teachers felt more like friends, creating a warm and open space where she could speak without pressure.

Learning Real, Natural English You Can’t Find in Textbooks

Erin had assumed that studying grammar and vocabulary was something she could easily do on her own in Japan. But once in Cebu, she was exposed to natural, native-like expressions that don’t appear in typical Japanese textbooks.

“For example, I was surprised to learn there are softer ways to make a request than using ‘Can you~?’ I realized there’s a whole world of nuance in English I’d never seen before.”

One of the most useful parts of the course was a regular writing assignment where she had to use newly learned idioms in her own sentences. Even with just junior high-level grammar and vocabulary, she found that she could express herself with creativity. These assignments, paired with helpful feedback from her teachers, gradually boosted her confidence.

“I realized I didn’t need perfect English to get my point across. That feeling really helped me believe I could do this.”


Chapter 3: More Than Just English – The New Values I Discovered in the Philippines

Erin’s time in Cebu wasn’t just about improving her English—it also gave her a chance to reflect deeply on her own values and mindset.

The Importance of Having and Expressing Your Own Opinions

One of the biggest things she noticed during her long-term stay was how clearly Filipino people express themselves.
They are honest about what they like and don’t like, and they share their opinions openly, without holding back. This direct communication style was a big contrast to what Erin was used to in Japan.

“In Japan, we often hold back our opinions, trying to read the room or avoid conflict. But in Cebu, people really value what you think and encourage you to express it.”

Being in that kind of environment gradually changed the way Erin thought.
She realized she didn’t have to force herself to be liked by everyone. What really matters is being honest and forming relationships based on your true self. One of her teachers even said something that stuck with her:

“If you stay true to who you are, the right people will be naturally drawn to you.”

“That really lightened something in my heart,” Erin said.

Flat and Friendly Relationships Without Hierarchies

Another big surprise was how casual and equal relationships felt in the Philippines.
In Japan, Erin often felt the pressure of age or status, but in Cebu, she experienced communication that was much more relaxed and open.

Because there’s no formal honorific language like in Japanese, people naturally talk more freely. That made it easy to connect with others, regardless of age.
Before she knew it, Erin found herself having deep conversations about life with people she had just met.

“I even made plans to travel with some of the friends I met here after we return to Japan. I really believe these are friendships that will last a lifetime.”


Chapter 4: The People I Met in Cebu and How They Opened Up My Future

The friendships Erin built during her time in Cebu became a powerful source of inspiration.
They weren’t just casual connections—these relationships encouraged her to reflect deeply on her own way of living.

New Perspectives on Life Changed the Way I See Work

At 3D ACADEMY, students came from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Some were stopping by on a trip around the world, others were training to become nurses, and some were preparing for working holidays abroad.
Hearing their stories challenged Erin’s existing ideas of what a “normal” career should look like.

“In Japan, there’s still a strong belief that you should go to a good university, get into a good company, and work there until retirement. But at 3D, most people were living lives that didn’t fit into that mold at all—and it was shocking in the best way.”

She realized there are so many valid ways to live, far beyond the limited paths she had grown up believing in.
And once she accepted that all of them are equally valid, her sense of what was possible in life expanded dramatically.

Working Five Days a Week Isn’t the Only “Correct” Way

“In Japan, there’s this unspoken rule that being a full-time office worker is the only right path. But the people I met in Cebu were all living based on what they wanted to do. They were free, responsible, and honestly, really cool.”

Erin herself is a freelancer, but after studying abroad, she started to believe more strongly that it’s okay—even empowering—to choose your own way of working.

New perspectives led to new dreams for the future.
More than just improving her English, the greatest thing Erin gained from this experience was the freedom to imagine different paths in life—and the courage to explore them.


Chapter 5: What About My English Skills? Facing the Biggest Fear

One of the biggest fears people have when considering studying abroad is:
“Can I really survive if I don’t speak English?”
And Erin was no exception.

“At first, I thought, ‘Everyone else is probably fluent…’ But when I actually got there, that wasn’t the case at all!” she laughs.

In reality, many students started out with limited English skills. That’s exactly why Erin quickly realized she didn’t need to feel embarrassed about not being perfect.

Feeling Supported by Teachers and Friends

What made the biggest difference was the support from those around her—both teachers and fellow students.

“Even when I asked questions, no one ever got annoyed. The teachers explained everything kindly, and if I didn’t understand a word during class, I’d look it up later with friends. There was this great atmosphere of ‘Let’s grow together,’ and it made me feel really secure.”

Even if her vocabulary was small or her grammar wasn’t perfect, her desire to communicate always got the message across.
And with each small success, her anxiety slowly turned into a quiet sense of confidence.

You Don’t Have to Be Confident in English to Take the Leap

“It’s such a waste to give up on studying abroad just because you’re not good at English. I actually think people who aren’t good at it should come even more.”

Even with zero English ability or communication skills, you’ll be okay.
Erin’s words carry the weight of someone who took the leap—and discovered what was truly possible.


Chapter 6: Food, Facilities, and Fun – The Real 3D ACADEMY Life

When people think of language schools, they often imagine a strict, study-heavy routine or worry about daily life abroad.
But Erin says her time at 3D ACADEMY offered a perfect balance between learning and relaxation.

Delicious and Healthy Food, Beyond Expectations

“To be honest, I didn’t expect much from food in the Philippines—but the meals at 3D were way better than I imagined!”

What she appreciated most was the Japanese-style flavoring that suited her palate, and the fact that every meal included a good portion of vegetables.
She had heard that vegetables could be hard to come by in Cebu, but 3D quickly put that fear to rest.

Every Wednesday was “Curry Day,” featuring a variety of international curry dishes—a weekly highlight.

“Even the fried food stayed crispy, which showed how much care they put into the meals.”


Not Just Studying – Sports and Fun That Felt Like a Second Youth

After class, one of Erin’s favorite ways to unwind was visiting the Waterfront Hotel pool, which 3D ACADEMY students can use for free.

“I was honestly shocked—it’s such a luxurious facility, and it’s completely free? I couldn’t believe it at first!”

The school also has ping-pong tables and a basketball court, perfect for light exercise and socializing with friends.

“It reminded me of my university club days. I felt like I was reliving my youth all over again!” she laughs.

Erin also enjoyed optional weekly activities like yoga, Zumba, and hip-hop dance classes. While participation is voluntary, all sessions are conducted in English—allowing her to learn the language while having fun and staying active.


Prime Location with Access to Both Malls and Local Markets

“After class, I’d often go to big shopping malls with friends, or explore local markets. It was a great way to experience Filipino culture firsthand.”

3D ACADEMY is located in a convenient area of Cebu City, making it easy to find food, shopping, and entertainment.
Whether you’re focused on your studies or looking to enjoy the local lifestyle, it’s an ideal environment for both.

Chapter 7: Gaining Confidence in English—and Looking Toward the Future

When Erin looked back on her time studying abroad, she realized the biggest change within herself was this:
She no longer feared speaking English.

“At first, I was nervous just saying hello to my teacher. But now, I’ve learned to just try speaking. I realized that what matters most is the willingness to communicate—even if it’s not perfect.”

Becoming unafraid of making mistakes, and learning to express her own thoughts with confidence—these were all results of the intense, meaningful time she spent in Cebu.

Still, She Wants to Say Even More

Of course, the journey of learning English doesn’t end there.
Erin admits she still gets frustrated when she can’t quite express what she wants to say.

“That’s why I’m continuing to study using 3D’s online English classes. I don’t want to lose the progress I made during my time in Cebu.”

Working Holiday, World Travel—New Goals Are Taking Shape

Erin now dreams of growing her freelance career even further—and after that, trying a working holiday abroad.
In the long term, she wants to travel to many countries and make friends around the world.

“If you can speak English, you can connect with people anywhere. That’s such a beautiful thing, don’t you think?”

For Erin, English is no longer just a subject to study.
It’s a passport to a bigger world—and she’s already looking forward to her next destination.


Chapter 8: A Message to Those Hesitating About Studying Abroad

It was Erin’s first time going overseas. Her first time studying abroad.
And she admits that before leaving, she felt more fear than excitement.

“I was worried because I couldn’t speak English… I wasn’t sure if I could handle going abroad alone.”

But those feelings aren’t unusual—they’re the kind of natural fears anyone would have.

Still, once she took the leap, Erin found that what awaited her was a world that was far warmer and more exciting than she ever imagined.

“If you’re not confident in English, that’s all the more reason to come to 3D. The support is amazing, the teachers are kind, and your classmates will help you, too. It’s a place where you can truly feel safe to challenge yourself.”

Amazing Value, Great Location, and Full Support

One of the things Erin appreciated most about 3D ACADEMY was the balance between affordability and quality.

  • High-quality lessons

  • Delicious meals

  • Comfortable dorms

  • A convenient location near shopping malls

  • Plenty of fun activities

“Honestly, I was impressed that all of this was included at such a reasonable price.”

“At 3D, you can both learn and enjoy yourself. It’s perfect for English beginners or anyone trying study abroad for the first time.”

Studying Abroad Is a Journey to Expand Your World

Finally, Erin shared this message with those who are still unsure:

“If you’re on the fence, just go. You’ll be glad you did.

It’s not just about learning English—it’s a chance to face yourself, discover new worlds, and maybe even change your life a little.”


日本語版はこちら:
Erinさんが語る“初めてのセブ島留学と英語との向き合い方”【3D ACADEMY 体験談】