There are few things I enjoy as much as languages and, consequently, talking to people. More accurately, I find immense joy in tearing down language barriers, and hand in hand with them the social barriers that, more often than not, prevent us from getting to know one another.
When I came across the possibility to share my love for the English language with other students at Waseda, there was no doubt in my mind I had to give it a shot, and I immediately applied for the volunteer position of Supporter. I safely knew I was going to enjoy the ICC English Chat Club very much, yet I can confidently say it still exceeded my expectations.
The atmosphere of the club is incredibly relaxed, and all the ICC staff are extremely helpful, to both us volunteers and the participants. Each week on Thursday evening, I got to meet with three teammates, Waseda students who want to practice their English or simply have an English conversation, and I sincerely hope I speak for all of us when I say I was looking forward to it every single time, and I look back at it as one of the fondest memories I have made in Japan so far.
The relationships between us and our knowledge of each other had really deepened over the four weeks. My teammates were from Japan, Taiwan, and China, and I learned a lot about their culture and customs! All of us also got to taste some Taiwanese and Chinese snacks brought by the students, unprompted may I add! I was also really touched by the other students’ genuine interest in my own (tiny) country. Our Japanese teammate was always happy to explain any Japanese social customs we found strange or were interested in. For example, now I know why you shouldn’t speak on the train in Japan!
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- ICC photos
Outside of learning about each other’s cultures, we got to share our past stories and plans for our future. We talked about our families, our hobbies, experiences, and topics we are passionate about. There was always something we could talk about, and I believe we never had a dull moment.
I think it is very important that there is really no pressure to speak perfect English. As a non-native speaker myself, of course I sometimes make mistakes too, but the ICC English Chat Club is not about correcting each other’s grammar, it is about enjoying the English language in a friendly environment, getting to know your teammates, making friends!
Photo by ICC
