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#Became more positive and cheerful #Confidence in English and independence #I liked being able to focus on myself
The three months in Cebu were truly a time when I felt and learned so many things! I gained a lot of confidence in English, and by making various friends and having experiences, I could feel that I became brighter and more positive than before I went on my gap year!
Let''s stop stressing about English! Learn English happily and enjoyably in Cebu! Seunghwa Lee''s Gap Year Review (29)
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# Hello! I quit my job and went on a gap year that lasted a full nine months!
Hello! I''m Seunghwa Lee.I quit my job and went on a nine-month gap year; I have finished a language study project in Cebu, Philippines, and am currently participating in a volunteer project in Hanoi, Vietnam.
I left for a gap year hoping to break out of my current self, shatter my own mold, and take a step forward. I''m currently in the process of breaking that mold! haha
*For Seunghwa, who wanted challenges through new experiences and time to get to know herself,a specialactivities that offered special experiences, and customized one-on-one personal missions every day to improve life direction and English skills were provided, and a gap year notebook was also provided so I could reflect on myself and make plans.
>> Registration fee 100 won! Go to the gap year mission
# I learned about gap year around the time I was feeling doubts about my life!
As I lived my life, I gradually began to feel skeptical about it. Thoughts like ''Is this way of living okay?'' or ''Is it okay to continue living like this?'' kept coming.And as I felt like I had failed during my first and second jobs, I increasingly wanted to leave Korea. I wanted to change. I also wanted to study English more, which I was interested in at the time.
Honestly, the plan itself was close to ''escaping reality.'' No, it was probably an escape from reality. Initially, the gap year and language study I planned was to go to Canada.Then, by chance, I met the lead gap year consultant and completely changed my plans.I thought it would be best to follow the consultant''s recommendation.
So I went on the Cebu language study project in the Philippines. After that, the childcare volunteer project in Hanoi, Vietnam, and finally the language study project in Vancouver, Canada — thus began a total nine-month project journey.
# Preparations before leaving for the Philippines!
After attending the gap year orientation, I received all the necessary vaccinations. The packing list of things to prepare was also very helpful. Since I''m generally not in great health, I packed plenty of emergency medicine. Thanks to a friend who bought some things for me, I only had to buy a few additional necessary items, which was even more advantageous (?).
I also searched the internet a lot for things that would be good to bring before going to Cebu, and I think I prepared based on travel information and such.
# My goals for this Philippine language-study gap year were to improve my English skills and to think positively!
Since I went on the Cebu language study project, my primary goal was of course to improve my English skills. The secondary goal was to think more positively — a slight personality change.
Also, on a personal level, it was about becoming independent from my home (parents) in Korea. Having lived with my parents for a long time, I especially needed mental independence from my mother, so that was also a goal.
# I gained a lot of confidence in English!
What I liked during my gap year in Cebu was the confidence in my English.In the first month, I had no confidence in English. It was hard to understand what was being said, and I kept asking the friend beside me. But after one or two months, my ears opened gradually. I started speaking in English without hesitation, and before I knew it, speaking in English became fun.
And I liked being able to fully focus on myself.When I was in Korea I used to be a very obsessive person. If I didn’t do something I felt anxious, and I kept obsessively trying to figure out what I was good at. But after coming here and giving myself over to this life, I gradually discovered for myself what I’m good at and what I like.For example, I originally thought I wasn’t competitive, but I found I actually have a strong competitive streak, and I show leadership in unexpected moments. So finding those sides of myself one by one was fun. Becoming sunnier than before was an added bonus.
Meeting friends from different countries made me realize I had been a frog in a well, and it really helped me begin to explore the direction I want to go in life.
# Through this gap year I’ve been hearing a lot that I’m much brighter and better than before!
Comparing before and after joining the gap year: before participating I was often restless and worn out, but now I’ve become brighter and am slowly finding stability. People around me also often say I’m brighter and have improved.
And now I’ve learned to assert myself. Before, I hesitated to express those things, but now I tend to speak up well—among friends and family.I’m still someone with lots to change, but I believe I’ll continue to get better! :)
# A day in the Cebu language study gap year project!
All students were required to attend Sparta classes for one month. At first it was difficult because I went without a foundation. Especially the evening Sparta classes... haha.But as I kept attending, it became fun, and I set a goal to attend every Sparta class without being late or absent—and I achieved that goal!
# People I met during the gap year!
First, my batchmates who arrived in Cebu with me: Bin, Hana, Sun (we’re still in Vietnam together haha), another Sun, Jimie! They’re all Korean friends. They were a great support during my three months in Cebu. I’m so grateful.
And my dorm Room 418 members! Peggy, Julia, Jessica. I’ll definitely meet them when I go to Taiwan. I miss them so much! ㅠ_ㅠ
Also Hanna, Olivia (Massage Pod—are you all doing well in Korea?), Unnie, Lisa, Ayu, Carter, Joey, Michelle, Tina, Mari, Mi, Cho, Tuyen (she’s Vietnamese so I met her again in Hanoi! Great to see you haha)… and many other friends! I miss you all.
My local friends Angel and Vincent! I was introduced to them by another friend by chance, and they were so fun and cheerful. Especially Angel—she worried about me until I returned to Korea, and I was so thankful.
I also miss all the E.O.C. members we were with—Rowella, Tardie, and even the local Philippine teachers!
And my grateful teachers who were with me for three months: Jeferson, Roby, Yam, Cheryl, Scharisse, and S.A Jenelyn.These are people I definitely want to meet when I visit Cebu haha.
# My recommended places to visit in Cebu, Philippines!
I went on a one-night, two-day trip to Bohol with friends, and in the final week I took a day trip to Olango Island using a coupon given by the gap year program!
If you have the chance, I recommend visiting not only Olango but also Nalusuan and Hilutungan. People often combine them like this. I heard it’s great for hopping tours haha.
# My tips for preparing for a Cebu language study gap year!
- Language
: Most people in the Philippines can speak English, so communication wasn’t a problem! Still, I recommend studying basic grammar and vocabulary before coming. For example, watch English content you like on YouTube, or subscribe to Netflix to watch American or British shows.
- Accommodation
: I recommend bringing indoor slippers to wear inside the room. It''s also good to bring separate bathroom slippers! They don''t have to be expensive — you can buy them at places like Daiso and I recommend buying, wearing, and throwing them away when you leave.
- Meals
: I felt that the food provided by the local language school was generally tailored to Koreans or Japanese. There was kimchi too. If you go a little farther from the school you can buy gochujang at Korean marts and similar stores! Or you can bring Korean seasonings in advance (gochujang, sesame oil, etc.), or seaweed flakes/roasted seaweed for lunch boxes. It would be good to bring those! My friends shared some with me so I actually enjoyed them a lot! haha
- Things to bring, insurance, etc.
: Insurance is essential! Be sure to enroll. In my case I once had to go to the hospital due to stomach problems from the change in water, and afterwards the insurance helped me a lot! Also, as mentioned above, it''s good to bring indoor slippers and bathroom slippers. Other daily necessities can be purchased locally, so you don''t need to bring heavy items. (Even if you forgot stationery, nearby bookstores or the school store sell them, so you can buy them after arriving!)
My gap year was
Experience ★★★★★
: For the first time I spent a long period abroad on my own and had so many wonderful experiences! Because of this I became much more positive, and through these experiences I realized that I can do things.
Learning ★★★★★
: I used to only know really simple words or expressions, but after three months I was able to say simple sentences and expressions! I learned a lot and it was a grateful time. I still can''t forget the teachers I studied with haha
Environment ★★★★
: The Cebu language school was clean inside and out, and there were many convenient places nearby like marts, drugstores, and banks, so it was convenient and nice!
Safety★★★★
: It''s not dangerous as long as you don''t go out late at night, but I still recommend not walking alone in alleys — go with friends!
Leisure★★★★★
: Highly recommended for those who like water activities! It''s a really good environment to enjoy them! There''s also an inexpensive massage shop near the school, so getting a massage is a great tip! If you come to Cebu, I recommend you definitely try a massage!
A special experience the participant attendedPhilippines — Cebu Language Study Gap Year ProjectCurious about it?!
Please click the banner below!
▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼
The three months in Cebu were truly a time when I felt and learned so many things! I gained a lot of confidence in English, and by making various friends and having experiences, I could feel that I became brighter and more positive than before I went on my gap year!
Let''s stop stressing about English! Learn English happily and enjoyably in Cebu! Seunghwa Lee''s Gap Year Review (29)
|
# Hello! I quit my job and went on a gap year that lasted a full nine months!
Hello! I''m Seunghwa Lee.I quit my job and went on a nine-month gap year; I have finished a language study project in Cebu, Philippines, and am currently participating in a volunteer project in Hanoi, Vietnam.
I left for a gap year hoping to break out of my current self, shatter my own mold, and take a step forward. I''m currently in the process of breaking that mold! haha
*For Seunghwa, who wanted challenges through new experiences and time to get to know herself,a specialactivities that offered special experiences, and customized one-on-one personal missions every day to improve life direction and English skills were provided, and a gap year notebook was also provided so I could reflect on myself and make plans.
>> Registration fee 100 won! Go to the gap year mission
# I learned about gap year around the time I was feeling doubts about my life!
As I lived my life, I gradually began to feel skeptical about it. Thoughts like ''Is this way of living okay?'' or ''Is it okay to continue living like this?'' kept coming.And as I felt like I had failed during my first and second jobs, I increasingly wanted to leave Korea. I wanted to change. I also wanted to study English more, which I was interested in at the time.
Honestly, the plan itself was close to ''escaping reality.'' No, it was probably an escape from reality. Initially, the gap year and language study I planned was to go to Canada.Then, by chance, I met the lead gap year consultant and completely changed my plans.I thought it would be best to follow the consultant''s recommendation.
So I went on the Cebu language study project in the Philippines. After that, the childcare volunteer project in Hanoi, Vietnam, and finally the language study project in Vancouver, Canada — thus began a total nine-month project journey.
# Preparations before leaving for the Philippines!
After attending the gap year orientation, I received all the necessary vaccinations. The packing list of things to prepare was also very helpful. Since I''m generally not in great health, I packed plenty of emergency medicine. Thanks to a friend who bought some things for me, I only had to buy a few additional necessary items, which was even more advantageous (?).
I also searched the internet a lot for things that would be good to bring before going to Cebu, and I think I prepared based on travel information and such.
# My goals for this Philippine language-study gap year were to improve my English skills and to think positively!
Since I went on the Cebu language study project, my primary goal was of course to improve my English skills. The secondary goal was to think more positively — a slight personality change.
Also, on a personal level, it was about becoming independent from my home (parents) in Korea. Having lived with my parents for a long time, I especially needed mental independence from my mother, so that was also a goal.
# I gained a lot of confidence in English!
What I liked during my gap year in Cebu was the confidence in my English.In the first month, I had no confidence in English. It was hard to understand what was being said, and I kept asking the friend beside me. But after one or two months, my ears opened gradually. I started speaking in English without hesitation, and before I knew it, speaking in English became fun.
And I liked being able to fully focus on myself.When I was in Korea I used to be a very obsessive person. If I didn’t do something I felt anxious, and I kept obsessively trying to figure out what I was good at. But after coming here and giving myself over to this life, I gradually discovered for myself what I’m good at and what I like.For example, I originally thought I wasn’t competitive, but I found I actually have a strong competitive streak, and I show leadership in unexpected moments. So finding those sides of myself one by one was fun. Becoming sunnier than before was an added bonus.
Meeting friends from different countries made me realize I had been a frog in a well, and it really helped me begin to explore the direction I want to go in life.
# Through this gap year I’ve been hearing a lot that I’m much brighter and better than before!
Comparing before and after joining the gap year: before participating I was often restless and worn out, but now I’ve become brighter and am slowly finding stability. People around me also often say I’m brighter and have improved.
And now I’ve learned to assert myself. Before, I hesitated to express those things, but now I tend to speak up well—among friends and family.I’m still someone with lots to change, but I believe I’ll continue to get better! :)
# A day in the Cebu language study gap year project!
All students were required to attend Sparta classes for one month. At first it was difficult because I went without a foundation. Especially the evening Sparta classes... haha.But as I kept attending, it became fun, and I set a goal to attend every Sparta class without being late or absent—and I achieved that goal!
# People I met during the gap year!
First, my batchmates who arrived in Cebu with me: Bin, Hana, Sun (we’re still in Vietnam together haha), another Sun, Jimie! They’re all Korean friends. They were a great support during my three months in Cebu. I’m so grateful.
And my dorm Room 418 members! Peggy, Julia, Jessica. I’ll definitely meet them when I go to Taiwan. I miss them so much! ㅠ_ㅠ
Also Hanna, Olivia (Massage Pod—are you all doing well in Korea?), Unnie, Lisa, Ayu, Carter, Joey, Michelle, Tina, Mari, Mi, Cho, Tuyen (she’s Vietnamese so I met her again in Hanoi! Great to see you haha)… and many other friends! I miss you all.
My local friends Angel and Vincent! I was introduced to them by another friend by chance, and they were so fun and cheerful. Especially Angel—she worried about me until I returned to Korea, and I was so thankful.
I also miss all the E.O.C. members we were with—Rowella, Tardie, and even the local Philippine teachers!
And my grateful teachers who were with me for three months: Jeferson, Roby, Yam, Cheryl, Scharisse, and S.A Jenelyn.These are people I definitely want to meet when I visit Cebu haha.
# My recommended places to visit in Cebu, Philippines!
I went on a one-night, two-day trip to Bohol with friends, and in the final week I took a day trip to Olango Island using a coupon given by the gap year program!
If you have the chance, I recommend visiting not only Olango but also Nalusuan and Hilutungan. People often combine them like this. I heard it’s great for hopping tours haha.
# My tips for preparing for a Cebu language study gap year!
- Language
: Most people in the Philippines can speak English, so communication wasn’t a problem! Still, I recommend studying basic grammar and vocabulary before coming. For example, watch English content you like on YouTube, or subscribe to Netflix to watch American or British shows.
- Accommodation
: I recommend bringing indoor slippers to wear inside the room. It''s also good to bring separate bathroom slippers! They don''t have to be expensive — you can buy them at places like Daiso and I recommend buying, wearing, and throwing them away when you leave.
- Meals
: I felt that the food provided by the local language school was generally tailored to Koreans or Japanese. There was kimchi too. If you go a little farther from the school you can buy gochujang at Korean marts and similar stores! Or you can bring Korean seasonings in advance (gochujang, sesame oil, etc.), or seaweed flakes/roasted seaweed for lunch boxes. It would be good to bring those! My friends shared some with me so I actually enjoyed them a lot! haha
- Things to bring, insurance, etc.
: Insurance is essential! Be sure to enroll. In my case I once had to go to the hospital due to stomach problems from the change in water, and afterwards the insurance helped me a lot! Also, as mentioned above, it''s good to bring indoor slippers and bathroom slippers. Other daily necessities can be purchased locally, so you don''t need to bring heavy items. (Even if you forgot stationery, nearby bookstores or the school store sell them, so you can buy them after arriving!)
My gap year was
Experience ★★★★★
: For the first time I spent a long period abroad on my own and had so many wonderful experiences! Because of this I became much more positive, and through these experiences I realized that I can do things.
Learning ★★★★★
: I used to only know really simple words or expressions, but after three months I was able to say simple sentences and expressions! I learned a lot and it was a grateful time. I still can''t forget the teachers I studied with haha
Environment ★★★★
: The Cebu language school was clean inside and out, and there were many convenient places nearby like marts, drugstores, and banks, so it was convenient and nice!
Safety★★★★
: It''s not dangerous as long as you don''t go out late at night, but I still recommend not walking alone in alleys — go with friends!
Leisure★★★★★
: Highly recommended for those who like water activities! It''s a really good environment to enjoy them! There''s also an inexpensive massage shop near the school, so getting a massage is a great tip! If you come to Cebu, I recommend you definitely try a massage!
A special experience the participant attendedPhilippines — Cebu Language Study Gap Year ProjectCurious about it?!
Please click the banner below!
▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼
What makes this project special
