[English Coaching Awards 2024] Grand Prize in the Speaking Category! A Life-Changing Turnaround from Reclusion Through English

English Coaching Awards 2024
Grand Prize, Speaking Category

◆ Award-winning School/Course
TORAIZ / 12-Month Speaking Undergraduate Course

Consultant in Charge: Iori

— Learning Success Story of Student K —

Student K mentioned that due to illness, they were unable to go outside and lacked confidence in everything. Wanting to change themselves, they began learning English at TORAIZ.

◆ Score

VERSANT: Achieved 35 to 52 points!!
(Click here for more details on VERSANT speaking test scores. )

◆ Story

An analysis of the current situation revealed that while they had knowledge of vocabulary and grammar, they were not using it, and they also struggled with listening due to issues with auditory perception. For speaking, we focused on activating existing knowledge rather than memorizing new things. We started by reviewing basic vocabulary and used pattern practice. We assigned a native coach three times a week, and during lessons, we conducted intensive training to ensure they could speak in sentences rather than just words. For listening, we started with reading aloud simple sentences and synchro-reading, then moved on to shadowing once they got used to it. Gradually, they became able to connect English letters and sounds, and their listening ability improved. We also planned the study schedule in detail. After discussing with K, we set a goal of 4 hours a day and determined when to do each study task. In addition, we created action triggers, establishing a rule that if they did this, they would do that study task. As a result, they studied for nearly 1,200 hours in one year, and their VERSANT score rose from 35 to 52.

◆ Comment from Student K

The reason I enrolled in TORAIZ was that I wanted to change myself. I had been a shut-in for four years due to illness and couldn't go outside, and I had no confidence in anything. I thought that if I could speak English, I might gain some confidence. I decided to take on the challenge with that thought in mind, but I couldn't imagine myself ever being able to speak English.

I still vividly remember the day I signed up for TORAIZ with the resolve to take a step forward, and attended the initial counseling session feeling anxious. The person in charge was very kind, listened to my anxieties, and explained the plan carefully. Thanks to that, I was able to feel positive and think, "I'll give it my best."

The daily lessons and feedback were by no means easy, but they were rewarding, and I found the process itself enjoyable. In particular, having a clear path shown to me—"if you do this, you will be able to speak English"—was a huge factor, and I was able to continue my efforts without hesitation. There were times when my grades hit a plateau, but I was able to overcome them with the support of the team. That sense of unity was very reassuring.

As a result, my VERSANT score rose from the initial 35 to 52, and I gained confidence in my English. Furthermore, after completing the course, I joined a magician's company, which had been my original dream, and seized the opportunity to volunteer for a business trip to the Philippines. My achievements there were recognized, and I was successfully hired as a full-time employee. Now, I am living a fun and fulfilling life every day.

"My life has changed." That is all I can say. I am truly glad I joined TORAIZ.

◆ Comment from Consultant in Charge, Iori

I still remember when I first met K, they told me about their illness right away. They started the one-year course as a challenge that also served as rehabilitation for returning to society, with the hope of eventually connecting their English studies to work.

At first, they felt resistance to speaking English itself, but they brilliantly overcame that barrier. They were hired for a job that uses English, and their overseas business trip to the Philippines was a great success. Not only did they enjoy English conversation at immigration, hotels, and restaurants, but they also proactively spoke to customers at work to build connections, and I heard they were even praised by their boss.

I cannot help but feel deep respect for K's dedicated efforts. Their achievements and growth are truly wonderful, and I sincerely wish them even greater success in the future.