Student Interview 2 – Karen

Table of Contents
1. Self-introduction
2. The reason I started learning Japanese
3. The reason I chose Enuncia’s online lessons
4. Lesson content
5. Outcomes
6. Support and environment
7. The challenges of studying Japanese
8. Goal and Comment
9. Similar Articles
10. Comment
Self-introduction

Hi, I’m Karen from Hong Kong.
I love Japan and travel there several times every year. This year, I’ve already been three times. I especially look forward to snowboarding and visiting hot springs in Japan during the winter.
I also love Japanese food, so recently I’ve been watching YouTube videos and trying to cook Japanese dishes myself.
The reason I started learning Japanese
The reason I decided to study Japanese is because I love Japan. Since I had already traveled to Japan many times, I wanted to deepen my understanding of Japanese culture. When the pandemic hit and I couldn’t travel to Japan, I had some free time, so I decided to start studying Japanese.
The reason I chose Enuncia’s online lessons
The reason I chose online lessons is because in-person classes weren’t possible due to the pandemic. To be honest, I didn’t really want to take online lessons at first, but it turned out to be fine. Since it’s easy to schedule, I now think online lessons are the better option.
Lesson content
What I like the most is that my teacher doesn’t just use textbooks but tailors the lessons to my hobbies. For example, we study the lyrics of my favorite Japanese songs together, and sometimes we even watch Japanese cooking videos during the lessons, which makes it really fun. I always email my teacher before the lesson with what I want to study, and no matter the topic, she teaches it very well.
Outcomes
When I was studying by myself, I didn’t understand how to use particles or some grammar, but now, with my tutor’s lessons, I’ve improved. I’m also happy that when I traveled to Japan, I was able to communicate smoothly with the staff at the ryokan. Studying Japanese has made my hobbies even more enjoyable than before.
Support and environment
Since I can easily take lessons via Zoom, I haven’t had any major issues so far. It’s great because the easy-going atmosphere allows me to ask my teacher questions comfortably.
The challenges of studying Japanese
Grammar is the hardest part for me. No matter how many times I study it, I end up forgetting, which makes me feel disappointed in myself. Even though I always make mistakes, my teacher patiently teaches me, and I think I’ve improved a little, but I’ll keep working hard.
Goal and Comment
My goal is to pass the N3 in the JLPT this December. Since this is a hobby for me, I’m not thinking about going beyond that level, but even if I pass N3, I plan to continue studying.
One day, I want to attend a concert of my favorite singer in Japan, listen to their songs in Japanese, and be able to understand everything.
Thank you always, sensei!