Hi The Kookmin Review! My name is Ah-Ra Cho. I graduated from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the United States. I spent almost 5 years in the states. Let me tell you what I finally realized on the subject of learning English when I was there. If you are interested in studying abroad, then please hear me out!
 I was lucky. When I was 21 years old, I got the chance to study abroad in America. I can still remember how my parents were happy with me right after I got accepted to the University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a scholarship. At that time, I was so afraid of having to spend the next four years in United States. So I decided to ask some advice from people who had been through the process before.

They all told me almost the same things on “How to improve your English skills.” For example, to improve your English skills, you have to get along with Americans, and avoid hanging out with Koreans. Also, you have to speak with native speakers as much as you can. That kind of advice is all true and seemed to be very strategic ideas.
 However, thinking back now, I believe that kind of advice is misleading. I did not understand why they told me to do those kinds of things while I was living in the states. Because it turned out the things that they told me have almost nothing to do with life in the US. Yes, I am talking about “life”. I should have considered what my life in the US was going to be before I asked someone what I should do there. That was my fault because my question was wrong in the first place. The only thing I was concerned about was the barrier of language.

 I admit that improving English skills could be the ultimate purpose the whole time until returning to Korea. However, the more important thing is that you are going to live in another country which is called the “land of chances.” You should see the big picture beyond just focusing on learning English and avoiding everything else. That is not a good way to spend your time in another country. You need to consider Learning English as part of your life in the U.S.

As you know, language is a communication tool. Yes, it is a tool. With that tool, you express your heart or your essence. I think it is all about heart. To have a good story to tell, you need to experience many things. Especially, you can build your inner essence through a good friend.

It doesn’t matter what their skin color is. Do not discriminate between Koreans and Americans. Have some Korean friends who have a same purpose as you and study together? Why not? They are going to be a good partner and teacher. Additionally, you will have a good memory that you can share with them in the future. I am NOT saying that you should not get along with native speakers in the United States. I am just saying you don’t have to miss the chance to enjoy another good experience that can only happen when you are studying abroad.

See the big picture! Wherever you are, you need good friends for your life and self improvement too.
 Remember that you can determine how your life abroad will turn out, based on how you justify “communication”.