Start Today, Speak Fluently
Patricia Pinheiro
Greetings to all,
My name is Patricia Pinheiro. I have been teaching English here since 2023, and, this is one of my best experiences in Japan (I’ll explain it soon). Moreover, I have been working at the English Lounge, having funny and deep conversations with the students.
The English Lounge is a Shizudai Project, that started at the Hamamatsu Campus in May 2024. The aim is to create a nice environment that helps students improve their English speaking skills and make people feel comfortable enough to connect with foreigners. Because of that, there is no better place to hold the English Lounge than the International Exchange Lounge, in the 7th building.
Some students are shy or are not interested in having this kind of experience or practicing. I can understand how hard it is to express yourself in another language.
I didn’t tell you, but, as a Brazilian, my native language is Portuguese, and I have been studying Japanese since I got here. I feel uncomfortable, shy, and insecure. Sometimes, I want to give up on learning.
However, I know how important it is to learn a language even when it is as hard as learning Japanese. When I become good at Japanese, I think my life will be better, and the opportunities and experiences will be nicer, funnier, and deeper.
Maybe you don’t want to learn English or go abroad, and I respect that. However, I would like to remind you that at the University, you will be preparing yourself for the future, and will be ready for a career you don’t know exactly where it will lead you, but, I’m sure, you know you can do your best and get your goals!
I strongly believe we can get what we want… if we do our best and don’t stop.
Well, I, have once been to this place: a young university student, with many dreams and goals, communicating in English being one of them!
Look, I had never thought about living in Japan, but when the opportunity came, I seized it. In fact, at that time, I thought my English level would be enough to have a nice experience here. It wasn’t. Of course, the majority of people only speak Japanese and do not need to
learn other languages. However, not speaking the language was not an issue and I got a nice job!
In conclusion, do your best now, get your goals, open your mind, have more experiences, try a new language, be brave and come to English Lounge to talk to me or other students… you don’t know about the opportunities of the future: you can be a successful professional working around the world and English will help you!
Based on Patricia Pinheiro’s insights from the interview, what specific actionable steps can individuals take to overcome their hesitation and begin their own language learning journey?
## World Today News: Interview with Patricia Pinheiro
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we’re diving deep into the benefits of language learning and cultural immersion with Patricia Pinheiro, an English Teacher at Shizuoka University. Patricia, thanks for joining us.
**Section 1: The Importance of Language Learning**
* Patricia, you share your personal experience with learning Japanese as a Brazilian native speaker. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
* You mentioned that even though you’re focused on teaching English, your experience learning Japanese has been invaluable. How does learning a new language, regardless of its utility, impact a person’s perspective and outlook on life?
* For students who may feel hesitant about learning a new language, what advice would you give them based on your own journey?
**Section 2: The English Lounge**
* Tell us more about the “English Lounge” initiative at Shizuoka University. What motivated the creation of this space, and what makes it unique compared to traditional language classes?
* How does the “English Lounge” create an environment that encourages students to practice speaking English confidently, even those who might feel shy or intimidated?
* What kinds of activities and discussions take place at the “English Lounge”, and how do they contribute to the overall learning experience?
**Section 3: Benefits Beyond the Classroom**
* In your article, you emphasize that language learning can open doors to opportunities beyond academic pursuits. Can you elaborate on the professional advantages of having strong English skills in today’s globalized world?
* Beyond career prospects, how can learning a language like English enrich a person’s personal life and cultural understanding?
**Section 4: A Call to Action**
* You encourage students to seize opportunities and push their boundaries. What would you say to students who are on the fence about taking that leap and immersing themselves in a new language and culture?
* Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the “English Lounge” initiative and its impact on the Shizuoka University community?
**Conclusion:**
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your compelling insights and experiences. It’s clear that language learning goes far beyond simply acquiring vocabulary and grammar; it’s about opening doors to new perspectives, connecting with others, and ultimately, enriching our lives.
