<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIf I can speak English, it will be useful no matter where I go in the world.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
With this belief in mind, Anna set out on a solo journey from Russia to the Philippines\u2014specifically, to the island of Cebu.<\/p>\n
Anna is originally from Russia and has always had a deep interest in learning English. Over the years, she studied it in her own way, but felt that grammar and reading alone were not enough. What she really wanted was to become confident in speaking, to build practical skills she could use in real life.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cDuring travel or short study trips, I often thought, \u2018If only I could speak more fluently, I could connect more deeply with others.\u2019 That\u2019s when I became determined to truly master English.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Encouraged by a friend who had studied abroad, Anna chose Cebu as her destination\u2014an affordable place known for intensive English learning. Her school of choice was 3D ACADEMY, which her friend highly recommended after having a great experience there.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI did worry at first\u2014would I be able to adjust to Asian culture and daily life? But I told myself, \u2018If I want to expand my world, I have to take the first step.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
This article explores Anna\u2019s study abroad journey, including:<\/p>\n
\n
- \n
Why she chose Cebu<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Her experiences in class and with her teachers at 3D ACADEMY<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
How she spent her free time and weekends<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
The unique culture shocks of living in Cebu<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Honest thoughts about the dorm and food<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
What she feels now after completing her study abroad experience<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If you’re someone who wants to connect more with the world through English, or if you’re curious about living abroad but still unsure, Anna\u2019s story may offer the encouragement you need.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 1: Why Learn English?<\/h2>\n
\u201cI Want a Skill That Works Anywhere in the World\u201d<\/h3>\n
Anna\u2019s motivation to improve her English came from a sense of frustration she had felt many times in her life.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThere were so many situations where I thought, \u2018If I could speak English, I could connect with people no matter where I go.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
In Russia, English is taught in school, and Anna already had a solid understanding of grammar and vocabulary. But when it came to speaking, things didn\u2019t flow as easily.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI could read and write, but speaking was hard. That\u2019s why I wanted to live in an English-speaking environment\u2014to train myself to actually use the language.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
English as a Passport to the World<\/h3>\n
To Anna, English wasn\u2019t just an academic subject. It was a tool\u2014a passport that would allow her to navigate and connect with the world.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIf you can speak English, you can communicate almost anywhere. That\u2019s a powerful ability.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
She is considering working or living abroad in the future, and building strong English skills is the first step toward that goal.<\/p>\n
She Considered the West First, But…<\/h3>\n
Initially, Anna imagined studying in countries like the UK or the US. However, the high cost of tuition and living made her reconsider.<\/p>\n
Then she discovered Cebu\u2014an affordable destination that offered intensive classes and one-on-one instruction. It sounded perfect for what she needed.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe idea of one-on-one lessons to boost my speaking skills was exactly what I was looking for.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
When she heard that her friend had also studied at 3D ACADEMY and had a great experience with kind teachers and practical lessons, she was sold.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI checked the reviews, and everything pointed to this being a trustworthy, high-quality school. So I made my decision.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nChapter 2: Why Cebu? Why 3D ACADEMY?<\/h2>\n
A Journey That Began with Trust<\/h3>\n
Anna chose Cebu as her study abroad destination for three main reasons: affordability, intensive lessons, and the learning environment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
Far More Affordable Than the West\u2014with One-on-One Lessons<\/h3>\n
When people think of studying abroad, countries like the UK or the US usually come to mind. Anna was no different\u2014initially, she considered studying in the West. But the more she researched, the more her perspective shifted.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI was shocked to find that with the same budget, I could take so many more classes in the Philippines.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
In Cebu, one-on-one classes for 4 to 6 hours a day are standard. For Anna\u2014who lacked confidence in speaking\u2014this was a major advantage.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIn group classes, your speaking opportunities are limited. But in one-on-one lessons, the class doesn\u2019t move forward unless you talk. I knew that would really help me improve.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Discovering 3D ACADEMY Through a Friend<\/h3>\n
What ultimately helped Anna decide on a school was the recommendation of a Russian friend who had previously studied in Cebu.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cShe told me, \u20183D was really great.\u2019 She shared details about the teachers, the school atmosphere, and everyday life\u2014it made me feel at ease.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Thanks to this trusted referral, Anna began checking out 3D ACADEMY\u2019s website and online reviews. Compared to other schools, she noticed high ratings for things like:<\/p>\n
\n
- \n
Friendly teachers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Convenient location<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Clean dormitories<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\u201cI felt like I couldn\u2019t go wrong with this school.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Her First Time in the Philippines\u2014Nervous but Determined<\/h3>\n
Traveling from Russia to the Philippines, a country with a very different culture and climate, was a big step.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cHonestly, I had some worries at first\u2014about safety, the weather, and food. But my desire to take on a new challenge was stronger.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
3D ACADEMY welcomes students from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, and many other countries. In that multicultural environment, Anna found herself representing Russia and bringing her own culture into the mix.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cCebu was so much more peaceful and comfortable than I expected. The staff were incredibly kind\u2014I\u2019m truly glad I came here.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nChapter 3: Feeling the Power of Spoken English<\/h2>\n
Lessons and Favorite Teachers<\/h3>\n
Anna chose a curriculum that emphasized one-on-one instruction at 3D ACADEMY. Out of her six daily classes, most were private lessons with individual teachers.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cMy top priority was to improve my speaking. One-on-one classes gave me so much opportunity to talk\u2014it was the perfect setup.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Unlike group classes where you have to wait for your turn to speak, one-on-one lessons require you to speak constantly. This dramatic increase in speaking time helped Anna gradually overcome her fear of making mistakes.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cAt first, I was nervous, but the teachers were so kind. They laughed off my mistakes and corrected me patiently.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Memorable Teachers\u2014And One Extra Special Mentor<\/h3>\n
Anna studied with many teachers, but several stood out:<\/p>\n
Mr. Bob<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nCalm and gentle\u2014perfect for beginners who need a relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Ms. Therese<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nGreat at explaining grammar in a way that made even complex rules easy to grasp.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Ms. Dionne & Ms. Aubrey<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nFocused on conversation-based classes with a fun rhythm that made you want to speak more.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
But one teacher left the biggest impression:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cMs. Ellen was a special teacher for me. Her lessons were always intellectually stimulating and full of humor.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Through her classes with Ellen, Anna practiced speech delivery and discussion, discovering the deeper art of spoken English. It wasn\u2019t just conversation\u2014it was training in connecting thoughts to language.<\/p>\n
Group Classes: Where Cultural Exchange Happens<\/h3>\n
In addition to one-on-one classes, Anna also joined several group lessons, taught by:<\/p>\n
\n
- \n
Ms. Rowena<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Ms. Cris<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Mr. Ronald<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Mr. Matthew<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Ms. Rylene<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Anna especially admired Ms. Rylene:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cShe was so open-minded, smart, and always positive. She really brightened up the group dynamic!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
In these multicultural classrooms, English becomes the common language for cultural exchange. Anna enjoyed sharing aspects of Russian culture while learning surprising expressions and habits from students of other nationalities.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIt was fun and eye-opening to communicate beyond just language\u2014it felt like connecting across cultures.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nChapter 4: Food, Daily Life, and Living in Cebu<\/h2>\n
Embracing a New Culture with All Five Senses<\/h3>\n
Asian-Style Meals\u2014But I Missed Russian Food!<\/h3>\n
At 3D ACADEMY, three meals a day are provided at the dormitory cafeteria. Anna went to the dining hall daily, but she admits:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe food was good. But I really started missing Russian cuisine! (laughs)\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Her favorite dishes back home include traditional Russian comfort foods like Az\u00fa<\/em> (a meat and potato stew), as well as simple black and white breads.
The meals in Cebu often cater to Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese tastes\u2014which can be quite different from what Anna was used to.<\/p>\nStill, she gradually got used to the flavors and even started looking forward to mealtime by the end of her stay.<\/p>\n
A Convenient and Safe Neighborhood\u2014And Slow Evenings<\/h3>\n
3D ACADEMY is located in a very convenient area, with shopping malls and cafes just a short walk away. It\u2019s easy to buy what you need or enjoy a spontaneous outing with friends.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThere were so many restaurants nearby. I loved being able to grab a quick meal with my friends after class.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
That said, Anna didn\u2019t go out every day. On weekday evenings, she often stayed in her dorm to do homework or simply relax and chat with friends online.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cStudying English takes a lot of energy, so I made sure to have time to unwind at night.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Weekend Island Hopping\u2014Healed by Cebu\u2019s Ocean<\/h3>\n
One thing that surprised Anna about Cebu was:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe beauty of the ocean and how easy it was to reach the islands. You could just hop on a bus or boat and go!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
On weekends, she and her friends would visit nearby islands to enjoy white sand beaches, snorkeling, and tropical getaways.
These mini-vacations helped her recharge both mentally and physically.<\/p>\n\n\u201cIt wasn\u2019t just about studying English. Cebu\u2019s natural beauty also gave me so much peace.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nChapter 5: Top 3 Culture Shocks<\/h2>\n
Discovering a Different World<\/h3>\n
Street Children Everywhere<\/h3>\n
The first thing that struck Anna in Cebu was the presence of many street children on the roadsides.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIt was truly shocking at first. Seeing barefoot children begging\u2014it broke my heart.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
It was a sight rarely seen in Russia, and it made the poverty in the Philippines feel very real.
More than just a study-abroad experience, it became a moment of encountering global social issues.<\/p>\nPeople Asking for Help\u2014Right in Front of Her<\/h3>\n
While walking near the school one day, Anna was directly approached by people in need.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cSomeone asked me for food. I had never experienced anything like that before in my life.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
The contrast with life in Russia was stark. Anna felt a strong sense of gratitude for her own privileges\u2014alongside a growing desire to understand more about the world.<\/p>\n
Shocked to Learn \u201cThere\u2019s No Standing Army\u201d?<\/h3>\n
One surprising fact Anna encountered during her stay was:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cI heard that the Philippines doesn\u2019t have its own military.\u201d
(Note: This is a common misconception. The Philippines does have armed forces, though perceptions vary.<\/em>)<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\u201cIn Russia, military strength is highly emphasized. I realized just how different our national mindsets are.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
These cultural and philosophical differences helped expand Anna\u2019s worldview.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cStudying English in Cebu was wonderful\u2014but what I gained most was the feeling that the world is so much bigger than I ever imagined.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nChapter 6: The Joy of Sharing Russian Culture<\/h2>\n
Becoming a Bridge Through Cross-Cultural Exchange<\/h3>\n
Standing Out as a Student from Russia<\/h3>\n
During Anna\u2019s stay at 3D ACADEMY, there were very few students from Russia.
Because of this, her presence felt both unique and refreshing to those around her.<\/p>\n\n\u201cEveryone kept asking, \u2018What\u2019s Russia like?\u2019\u2014and I loved those conversations.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
At first, Anna was a bit nervous about being a representative of her culture. But as time went on, she began to embrace the role with joy and pride.<\/p>\n
Talking About Russian Cities, History, and Food<\/h3>\n
During mealtimes and after class, she was often asked, \u201cSo, what\u2019s Russia really like?\u201d
She frequently found herself sharing topics like:<\/p>\n\n
- \n
Russian Cities<\/strong>: The beautiful streets of Moscow and Saint Petersburg<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
History<\/strong>: Stories from the Sochi Olympics and the Russian Empire<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Cuisine<\/strong>: Descriptions of Borscht<\/em>, Az\u00fa<\/em> (a stewed potato and meat dish), and traditional Russian breads<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\u201cWhenever we talked about food, people\u2019s eyes would light up! They\u2019d say, \u2018I want to try that!\u2019\u2014and it made me so happy.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Connecting with others not just through language, but through culture, gave Anna a great sense of confidence and fulfillment.<\/p>\n
The Joy of Sharing Culture Through English<\/h3>\n
Everyone has their own reasons for learning English, but one of Anna\u2019s biggest takeaways from this experience was:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cEnglish can be a tool to share your own culture with the world.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\n\u201cWhen you speak English, it\u2019s not just about understanding other countries. You get to teach others about your own country too\u2014and that\u2019s what made it really fun for me.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
For Anna, this shift from being a learner to also becoming a teacher added new meaning and motivation to her language studies.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 7: Daily Life in Cebu<\/h2>\n
Quiet Evenings, Island Adventures, and a Healthy Balance<\/h3>\n
Afternoons for Homework and Chatting with Friends<\/h3>\n
After classes at 3D ACADEMY, Anna usually returned to her dorm room to do homework or chat with her friends.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cReviewing the lessons was important\u2014and chatting with friends also became great English practice.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
On tired days, she stayed in and rested. On better days, she\u2019d head out to a local caf\u00e9 with friends.
She found her own rhythm that allowed her to study and unwind comfortably.<\/p>\nWeekend Trips to the Islands\u2014Healing Through Nature<\/h3>\n
Of course, Cebu is known for its stunning beaches and nature. Anna often took weekend trips to nearby islands.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe beaches were so beautiful. The blue of the sky and sea was incredibly soothing.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Rather than high-energy snorkeling or boat parties, Anna preferred a calmer experience\u2014reading books by the beach, or simply enjoying the scenery.
She found these moments to be refreshing and rejuvenating before the next week of studies.<\/p>\nThe Perfect Balance Between Study and Relaxation<\/h3>\n
Many people imagine study abroad as being packed with constant classes\u2014but for Anna, mental balance<\/strong> was just as important.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cCebu offers both study and healing. I really liked that balance.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Not too intense, and not too relaxed. That natural, comfortable pace might be one of the biggest charms of both 3D ACADEMY and life in Cebu.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 8: Culture Shock Top 3<\/h2>\n
The Surprising Gaps Between Russia and Cebu<\/h3>\n
1. Encountering Street Children<\/h3>\n
While walking through the streets of Cebu, Anna occasionally saw children living on the streets.
It was a sight rarely encountered in Russia, and it deeply shocked her.<\/p>\n\n\u201cAt first, I didn\u2019t know how to respond\u2014I felt confused. Through them, I saw a different side of Philippine society.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
For Anna, this wasn\u2019t just a moment of \u201ccultural difference,\u201d but a powerful realization about the realities of the world.<\/p>\n
2. Adults Asking for Help on the Streets<\/h3>\n
It wasn\u2019t just children\u2014Anna was also surprised to see adults begging on the streets.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cTheir presence really left an impression on me. I felt like I had seen the harsh side of inequality firsthand.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
While she thought about what support she could offer within her means, she also felt a deep sense of helplessness.
This experience broadened her human perspective and strengthened her compassion.<\/p>\n3. The Fact That the Philippines Has No Formal Army<\/h3>\n
What shocked Anna the most was learning that:<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe Philippines does not have a traditional national army.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\n\u201cIn Russia, it\u2019s normal to have a strong military to protect the country\u2014so this really surprised me.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
This realization gave Anna a new understanding of how countries differ in their views on security and governance.<\/p>\n
Anna\u2019s culture shock was not just about surprise\u2014it became a gateway to seeing the world from multiple perspectives.
Her time in Cebu sparked a powerful internal dialogue between her Russian values and the global realities she witnessed.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 9: What I\u2019m Glad I Brought<\/h2>\n
A Cultural Sharing Experience From Russia<\/h3>\n
More Valuable Than Souvenirs\u2014Memories of Culture<\/h3>\n
What Anna appreciated most wasn\u2019t something she packed in her suitcase\u2014but rather, the cultural knowledge and memories she carried with her.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cIt wasn\u2019t a physical item. I felt like I brought Russian culture with me.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
When she talked about Russia\u2019s history or the beauty of its cities, her roommates and teachers would listen with shining eyes.<\/p>\n
Saint Petersburg and Sochi Olympics Were Big Hits<\/h3>\n
Among her stories, the most popular were her visits to St. Petersburg<\/strong> and memories of the 2014 Sochi Olympics<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cWhen I mentioned the Hermitage Museum, one of the students who loved art got really excited. That made me happy.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
The desire to learn about other cultures was something Anna found to be universal\u2014shared by Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese students alike.
Her stories about Russian life and values became natural gateways to deeper conversations in English.<\/p>\nA New Style of Studying Abroad: \u201cBringing Culture\u201d<\/h3>\n
When people think of studying abroad, they often imagine going somewhere to learn<\/strong>.
But in Anna\u2019s case, it was also about sharing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\u201cI felt like I was both a student and a cultural ambassador of Russia!\u201d (laughs)<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
At 3D ACADEMY, where students come from many different countries, \u201cintroducing your own culture\u201d becomes a natural part of the learning process.
Anna was thrilled to experience cultural exchange through conversation<\/strong>, not just textbooks.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 10: Editor\u2019s Note<\/h2>\n
Giving English a Soul by Speaking About Your Home Country<\/h3>\n
During our interview with Anna, what struck us the most was how confidently and joyfully she spoke about her country through English.<\/p>\n