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![\"Nelly\"](\"\/new3d\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/Nelly.jpg\")
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Nelly\u2019s 7-Week Challenge and Growth<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cI want to go back to Cebu someday.\u201d This time, he stayed for seven weeks, with the clear goal of sharpening his speaking skills in preparation for a potential future at a graduate school overseas. New classmates, new teachers, stimulating group classes, and everyday moments in Cebu\u2014all of these, he says, not only improved his English but also contributed to his personal growth.<\/p>\n In this study abroad report, we take a closer look at what Nelly gained during his seven weeks in Cebu and what makes a \u201crepeat study abroad\u201d at 3D ACADEMY so worthwhile.<\/p>\n \u201cAfter my first study abroad experience, some time had passed. But then I felt that urge to study seriously again,\u201d says Nelly.<\/p>\n The decision to return to Cebu was driven by a realistic possibility: studying at a graduate school abroad. To do that, he realized he needed more than just academic reading and writing\u2014he needed to be able to speak confidently in presentations and discussions.<\/p>\n And his reasons for choosing Cebu again were clear:<\/p>\n Outstanding cost-performance<\/p>\n<\/li>\n A curriculum focused on intensive one-on-one lessons<\/p>\n<\/li>\n And above all, a sense of trust and comfort from his previous stay<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n 3D ACADEMY, with its long history and Japanese management, stood out as a school that provides a well-organized and supportive environment for students.<\/p>\n \u201cI felt the same as the first time\u2014like this is the place where I want to learn again,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n With his previous experience as a foundation, Nelly returned to Cebu with a more refined goal. Because it was his second time, he could see the challenges more clearly\u2014and gain even deeper insights. That\u2019s what elevated his English skills to the next level.<\/p>\n Nelly\u2019s daily routine during his stay could be described as \u201cEnglish immersion from morning to night.\u201d With just seven weeks, his focus was on packing in as much meaningful learning and experience as possible.<\/p>\n \u201cThe first few days were all about figuring out which teachers and classes were the best fit for me,\u201d says Nelly. \u201cMy main objective was to improve my speaking skills, so I focused on one-on-one lessons. Still, the group classes added a healthy kind of pressure that was really motivating.\u201d<\/p>\n In his one-on-one classes, teachers corrected even small pronunciation or grammar mistakes without rushing, giving him space to learn at his own pace. Nelly stayed in the on-campus dormitory, which allowed him to move between his room and classrooms with ease\u2014no commuting required.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019d usually wake up around 7 a.m., have breakfast, then head straight to class. After lunch, I\u2019d continue with more lessons. In the evenings, I\u2019d go to the gym to reset before reviewing what I\u2019d learned or chatting with classmates.\u201d<\/p>\n 3D ACADEMY values student independence, and its relaxed atmosphere is ideal for self-directed learners like Nelly.<\/p>\n \u201cThe fact that the gym is right on campus is great. Studying all day can be mentally tiring, so exercising really helped me refresh.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOne new experience for me was joining the Sweets Club. We\u2019d talk about our favorite desserts in English and go around Cebu visiting different cafes. It was a fun way to use English in a casual, enjoyable setting.\u201d<\/p>\n Nelly also made a conscious effort to avoid relying on Japanese.<\/p>\n \u201cIn a school run by Japanese staff, it\u2019s easy to slip into speaking Japanese with other students. But I deliberately tried to connect with non-Japanese students whenever I could.\u201d<\/p>\n He also appreciated that the Filipino teachers frequently brought up everyday topics in English, making it easier to develop casual conversational skills without feeling like he was \u201cstudying.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn my first study abroad experience, I think I tried too hard to be perfect. This time, I focused on finding a pace that felt right for me. Because of that, I was able to concentrate better and feel less stressed.\u201d<\/p>\n By approaching his second study abroad with a more relaxed mindset, Nelly found he could connect more naturally with his teachers and get even more out of his classes.<\/p>\n \u201cDuring my first study abroad, I thought the most important thing was just to talk. But this time, I wanted to speak correctly and clearly.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n In his second time studying abroad, Nelly focused not just on speaking, but on speaking well<\/strong>. What helped him reach this new level were two things: the careful corrections he received in one-on-one classes, and the healthy pressure of group classes. Balancing these two proved to be the key to his rapid improvement in speaking.<\/p>\n \u201cEven when I made the same mistake over and over, my teachers patiently corrected me and gave me example sentences. That really helped.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n At 3D ACADEMY, students can take up to 4 to 6 one-on-one classes per day. Nelly dedicated many of these to polishing his speaking accuracy. His goals included:<\/p>\n Mastering pronunciation (especially TH, L, and R)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Using articles and prepositions correctly<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Choosing the right conjunctions in complex sentences<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Identifying and fixing his habitual errors<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n These lessons were conducted as conversations, with teachers \u201crecasting\u201d his sentences\u2014repeating them in corrected form\u2014which helped him understand not just the what<\/em>, but also the why<\/em> behind each correction.<\/p>\n \u201cI recorded some of my lessons and listened to them afterward. That\u2019s when I really started to notice my pronunciation issues and understand the logic behind the corrections.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Group lessons brought a different kind of benefit: a sense of challenge and accountability<\/strong>. Speaking in front of peers made him more aware of how his English sounded to others.<\/p>\n \u201cAt first, group classes were a little intimidating. But once I tried them, I realized English is about communication, not perfection.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Nelly tried out every available group class and then selected the ones that matched his learning style. One class that left a strong impression was English Demo<\/em> taught by Teacher Rylene. Although he couldn\u2019t join it this time due to scheduling conflicts, he remembered it well from his first stay.<\/p>\n \u201cListening to how other students express their ideas really expands your vocabulary and phrasing. And sometimes, I\u2019d hear someone say something and think, \u2018Hey, I can say that too!\u2019\u2014which gave me confidence.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Everyone says, \u201cDon\u2019t be afraid to make mistakes.\u201d But in reality, that\u2019s easier said than done. What helped Nelly push past that fear was the supportive environment at 3D ACADEMY.<\/p>\n \u201cThe teachers were always smiling, never negative about mistakes. They\u2019d say things like \u2018Good try!\u2019 or \u2018Almost correct!\u2019\u2014it made me feel encouraged, not embarrassed.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Being able to experience both the pressure of performing<\/em> and the safety to fail<\/em> created the ideal environment for growth. Nelly believes that was a major factor behind his significant improvement in speaking skills.<\/p>\n \u201cEvery day, I started to feel more and more like I could express my thoughts clearly in English. It felt natural. And more importantly, it felt like people really understood me.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n His growth wasn\u2019t something a test score could fully capture\u2014it was something more practical, more real: the ability to speak up and be understood. Exactly the kind of skill needed to thrive in a graduate program abroad.<\/p>\n Study abroad is often associated with long hours in the classroom\u2014but in reality, many successful students place just as much value on how they spend their free time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Nelly was no exception. During his 7-week stay in Cebu, he carefully balanced study and relaxation to create a rhythm that worked for him.<\/p>\n \u201cStudying English all day can tire your brain. That\u2019s why I made it a point to reset with the gym or a walk\u2014it really helped me stay sharp.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n His weekdays followed a steady flow: morning and afternoon classes, gym or rest in the evening, and review or light reading at night.<\/p>\n The school\u2019s on-campus gym was a huge plus. After intensive mental work in class, being able to move his body was a great way to refresh.<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t do heavy workouts\u2014just stretching or cardio to feel more awake. It also helped me maintain concentration the next day.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Weekends were for getting out and enjoying the city. From shopping malls to island hopping and cafe hopping, Cebu offered a variety of activities.<\/p>\n \u201cOne of my favorite memories was joining the Sweets Club. It\u2019s exactly what it sounds like\u2014a group of students who love desserts. We researched new places every week and visited them together.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n They didn\u2019t just eat\u2014sometimes they reviewed the sweets or gave short presentations in English. It turned fun into learning.<\/p>\n \u201cIt didn\u2019t feel like I had<\/em> to study. It felt like I wanted<\/em> to speak English because I was enjoying myself. That relaxed feeling helped me speak more naturally.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Another major takeaway for Nelly was the friendships and conversations he had with fellow students from all over the world.<\/p>\n \u201cEvery week, someone would graduate, and new students would arrive. That constant rotation brought so many unique perspectives into my life.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n He met people who were also on gap years, working professionals switching careers, and even digital nomads learning English while traveling. These conversations often sparked deeper reflections on his own path.<\/p>\n \u201cIt may sound dramatic, but I really did start thinking about life, not just language. The people I met were inspiring.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Of course, classes and textbooks are important. But being in an environment where you can learn comfortably and consistently<\/strong> is just as vital.<\/p>\n Nelly\u2019s time outside the classroom was as valuable as the time inside. He:<\/p>\n Stayed active to refresh his body<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Connected his hobbies to English<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Built friendships that supported his learning<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n All of this helped him go beyond \u201clearning English\u201d to using<\/em> English as a tool for expression and connection.<\/p>\n When studying abroad, classroom quality matters\u2014but so does comfort in daily life. Even the best lessons can fall short if your living situation is stressful. Nelly stayed in an on-campus dormitory, meaning his classroom and living space were all in one place. There was no need to commute in the morning or worry about safety at night.<\/p>\n \u201cThe room was clean, and regular cleaning and laundry services were a huge help. I was especially surprised by how fast the laundry was\u2014much quicker than in Japan!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Services like room cleaning and laundry are part of what makes studying in the Philippines convenient. Nelly appreciated how little he had to worry about anything outside of learning.<\/p>\n 3D ACADEMY provides three buffet-style meals a day, often mixing Japanese, Filipino, and Korean cuisine. Most students give the meals high ratings.<\/p>\n Still, Nelly commented:<\/p>\n \u201cThe food was delicious, but I would have liked more healthy options. I tend to gain weight easily, so having a lot of fried or heavy foods every day was a bit concerning.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n He suggested that low-carb options and more vegetables could offer better balance. That said, he found breakfast staples like cereal and eggs to be reliably satisfying. Plus, the campus has a small convenience shop, which made snacking easy between meals.<\/p>\n The school is located in a quieter part of Cebu City, slightly removed from the touristy areas. Still, there are shopping malls, pharmacies, and restaurants nearby for all basic needs.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not overly convenient, but for a study-focused environment, it\u2019s perfect. It\u2019s quiet and peaceful, yet close enough to go out when needed.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The nights were quiet too, allowing for uninterrupted study and sleep.<\/p>\n Living abroad inevitably brings cultural surprises. Here are the three that stood out most to Nelly:<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you walk into a convenience store or a restaurant, there are so many<\/em> staff. Some of them just stand there watching. At first, it was kind of confusing!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n In the Philippines, it\u2019s common to have more employees than strictly necessary, both due to low labor costs and employment culture. While it felt strange at first, Nelly admitted it was actually helpful\u2014assistance was always available.<\/p>\n \u201cIn Japan, mangoes are luxury fruits. Here, you can buy one for around 50 yen! And they\u2019re incredibly sweet.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Cebu is famous for mangoes. Nelly made a habit of visiting local markets on weekends to buy them in bulk, along with other fruits like watermelon.<\/p>\n \u201cOne thing that shocked me was how common gun-related incidents felt. There was even an incident near the dorm while I was there. It made me more aware of safety.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n While the school itself is located in a safe area, Nelly learned to be cautious when going out\u2014especially at night and alone.<\/p>\n \u201cAt first, some things felt scary or confusing. But I think discovering these differences is one of the true values of studying abroad.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n By living abroad, Nelly came to realize that many things he had considered \u201cnormal\u201d were actually just cultural habits. This awareness, he says, was one of the most eye-opening parts of his journey.<\/p>\n \u201cSeven weeks might sound long, but it went by in a flash. Still, I really felt that I accomplished<\/em> something this time.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n For Nelly, this second stay in Cebu was more than an English program\u2014it became a time to reflect deeply on his values and goals for the future.<\/p>\n The biggest change? Confidence.<\/p>\n \u201cI used to second-guess myself whenever I spoke English. But now, that hesitation is mostly gone. Sure, accuracy matters, but more importantly, I learned to just say it<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n He also noticed a huge improvement in casual conversation and group discussions.<\/p>\n \u201cThere were moments I just kept talking\u2014and even surprised myself!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Nelly is now seriously considering graduate studies abroad. To prepare, he knew he needed more than just high test scores\u2014he needed real communication skills.<\/p>\n \u201cThis was the perfect \u2018groundwork\u2019 experience. You can\u2019t build these skills with textbooks alone. I needed to practice thinking, organizing, and sharing ideas<\/em> in real English.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n That daily process of expressing thoughts, listening, and responding helped turn his classroom English into a natural part of how he communicates.<\/p>\n When asked if he\u2019d return to the same school, Nelly didn\u2019t hesitate.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I\u2019d definitely come back to 3D. And not just because the classes are good.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n For him, the value lies in the whole environment:<\/p>\n Detailed support from Japanese management<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Flexible curriculum adjustments and diverse teachers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n A balance of study and comfortable living<\/p>\n<\/li>\n A focus on personal growth\u2014not just grades or test results<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \u201cAt the end of every class, I kept thinking, \u2018That was fun. I want to learn more.\u2019 That\u2019s a rare and powerful feeling in language learning.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n \u201cIf you want to become a better English speaker, just go. It\u2019s okay to feel nervous at first\u2014everyone does. But once you’re there, you’ll be surrounded by people with the same goals, and you\u2019ll learn something new every single day.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n You don\u2019t have to be perfect. Just speak. Make mistakes. Learn. Do it again. One day, you\u2019ll realize you\u2019re speaking with confidence\u2014and you\u2019ll surprise yourself.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n 3D is the kind of place that helps you grow like that. If you want to find your own style of learning, this is a great place to start.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Throughout his seven-week stay, Nelly discovered which items were truly helpful\u2014and which ones he could have left behind. In this final chapter, he shares his top packing tips and practical advice for anyone considering studying abroad in Cebu or the Philippines.<\/p>\n \u201cAbsolutely essential. I used it almost every day for taking notes, making presentation slides, and checking PDF files shared by teachers.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n There are many tasks that smartphones just can’t handle efficiently. For anything from document editing to online study tools, a lightweight laptop is highly recommended.<\/p>\n \u201cSome rooms don\u2019t have many outlets, so an extension cord really helps. And a power adapter is a must.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n While many outlets in the Philippines are similar to Japan, some differ\u2014so a multi-type adapter is the safest option.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can buy medicine locally, but Japanese medications feel more reliable. Since some people may get stomach issues from the food, it\u2019s good to be prepared.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n \u201cLaundry service is available twice a week, so you don\u2019t need that many clothes. A few T-shirts and shorts were more than enough.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The dress code is casual, and many students end up buying clothes locally anyway.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course, safety is important. But I felt very safe both in the dorm and around campus, so there wasn\u2019t much need for extra locks or gear.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Some students bring padlocks or wire locks, but storing valuables in the dorm’s safe is usually sufficient.<\/p>\n Warmed up with online English lessons<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Reviewed basic daily English phrases using an app<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Researched Cebu\u2019s weather, cost of living, and lifestyle on YouTube and blogs<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \u201cSince I had mentally prepared for what kind of lifestyle to expect, I wasn\u2019t overwhelmed when I arrived.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nA Deeply Fulfilling \u201cSecond Summer\u201d in Cebu<\/h2>\n
With that feeling in mind, Nelly walked once again through the gates of 3D ACADEMY in the summer of 2024. Many students who study abroad don\u2019t stop after just one experience\u2014some return for a second or even third time. Nelly is one of them.<\/p>\n
\nChapter 1: Why Go Back? Nelly\u2019s Motivation for Studying English Again<\/h2>\n
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\nChapter 2: What Was Life Like During Those 7 Weeks at 3D?<\/h2>\n
\nA Schedule Focused on One-on-One Classes (Plus Selective Group Lessons)<\/h3>\n
At 3D, students are allowed to change their schedule flexibly after arrival, so he tried several group classes before narrowing down what matched his learning style and goals.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, in the group setting, he found it refreshing to hear how other students expressed themselves and used different phrases.<\/p>\n
\nCampus Life: Structured, Yet Flexible<\/h3>\n
\nBuilding Connections\u2014And Staying in English<\/h3>\n
\nA Relaxed Pace That Led to Real Results<\/h3>\n
\nChapter 3: The Key to Improvement\u2014Balancing Pressure and Comfort<\/h2>\n
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\nOne-on-One Lessons: A Luxury of Personalized Feedback<\/h3>\n
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\nGroup Classes: Motivation Through Social Energy<\/h3>\n
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\nA Safe Space to Make Mistakes<\/h3>\n
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\nA Noticeable Change in Just 7 Weeks<\/h3>\n
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\nChapter 4: Life Outside the Classroom\u2014How I Spent My Afternoons and Weekends in Cebu<\/h2>\n
\nWeekdays: A Cycle of Study, Exercise, and Recharge<\/h3>\n
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\nWeekends: Exploring, Traveling, and the Sweets Club<\/h3>\n
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\nThe People You Meet Shape the Experience<\/h3>\n
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\nStudy Abroad Isn\u2019t Just About Studying<\/h3>\n
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\nChapter 5: Living Conditions, Food, and Culture Shock<\/h2>\n
For Nelly, life at 3D ACADEMY was “very comfortable,” though he did encounter a few surprises and points for improvement along the way.<\/p>\n
\nDorm Life: Safe, Convenient, and Well-Managed<\/h3>\n
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\nMeals: Tasty, but Could Be a Bit Healthier?<\/h3>\n
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\nThe Surrounding Environment: Calm, But Not Isolated<\/h3>\n
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\nNelly\u2019s Top 3 Culture Shocks in Cebu<\/h3>\n
1. So Many Staff in Stores and Restaurants!<\/h4>\n
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2. Insanely Cheap and Delicious Mangoes<\/h4>\n
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3. Gun Violence Feels Surprisingly Close<\/h4>\n
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\nExperiencing New Cultures Broadens Your World<\/h3>\n
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\nChapter 6: What Makes a Language School Worth Returning To? Nelly\u2019s Reflections<\/h2>\n
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\nBefore and After: What Changed the Most?<\/h3>\n
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\nLaying the Foundation for Grad School Abroad<\/h3>\n
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\nWhy He Would Choose 3D ACADEMY Again<\/h3>\n
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\nA Message to Future Study Abroad Students<\/h3>\n
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\nChapter 7: Packing Tips and Practical Advice \u2014 Nelly\u2019s Study Abroad Essentials<\/h2>\n
\nWhat Was Worth Bringing<\/h3>\n
\u25a0 Laptop (Notebook PC)<\/h4>\n
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\u25a0 Power Adapter & Extension Cord<\/h4>\n
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\u25a0 Medication (Cold medicine, stomach relief, eye drops, etc.)<\/h4>\n
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\nWhat I Probably Didn\u2019t Need\u2026<\/h3>\n
\u25a0 Too Many Clothes<\/h4>\n
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\u25a0 Heavy-Duty Security Gear<\/h4>\n
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\nThings I\u2019m Glad I Did Before the Trip<\/h3>\n
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\n10 Practical Study Abroad Tips (From Nelly)<\/h3>\n