Currently: Private tutor

When I started the TESOL program, I did not know very much about the history of teaching, different styles of teaching, nor how teaching has changed over time. When I reflect on my two years at TUJ, I conclude that the experience has not only made me into a better teacher, but also has prepared me in unpredictable ways for my career. Progressing through courses with incredibly supportive classmates and professors who were role models, I was challenged to discover my own teaching style. That style has played a central role in how I teach and engage students.

Professors in this program provide so much helpful information to their students. They share their knowledge, which developed from their experience, and help put everything into perspective. And while it is not an easy journey, I believe that the hard work and dedication to complete the program was worth it. The TESOL program has opened my eyes to see that grammar, vocabulary, language background, and culture are all important to keep in mind when teaching. And with each course, I witnessed a positive change to my own teaching philosophy. It gives me great pleasure to say with pride that I have completed my Master of Science in Education at TUJ.

Currently: Instructor in the English Language Education Council, Inc. (ELEC)

Some years ago after teaching as an ALT at a junior high school for some time, I found it was time for me to go back to school. I had checked into online universities, but I didn’t think they would work for me because I’m very good at procrastinating and I need to interact directly with instructors. That is when an acquaintance who had finished the TESOL Master’s Program at Temple University told me about the program and suggested I go to one of the weekend seminars with him and talk to some people about the program. That is how I got started at Temple University.

The program was a great match for me. It allowed me to go at my own pace to meet my work, family and financial needs. There was no pressure to go any faster. The staff and instructors were very helpful. In addition, I met people who had the same desire to learn and develop their teaching abilities. Because of the very good interaction between everyone in the classes, I learned a lot from the instructors and my fellow students. The knowledge was both theoretical and practical. This allows me to apply this to the lessons I teach. That is a very strong point of the TESOL program for me.

Currently: Professor at Kanagawa Prefectural Institute of Language and Culture Studies

The time I spent at TUJ was a constant reminder of the phrase “standing on the shoulders of giants.” During my time as a master’s student, I was thrilled just to learn new things. Gradually, this excitement grew into a sense of responsibility to use what I learned. The humbling experience has given me the confidence I need to face professional opportunities which were only made possible by my studying at TUJ.

I decided to pursue my doctoral work at TUJ for two main reasons: diversity in the curriculum, and face-to-face communication opportunities. TUJ offered a wide variety of courses that helped me strike a balance between theory (science) and practice (art). Professors at TUJ and scholars invited to the Distinguished Lecturer Series were my role models for both doing rigorous research and teaching engaging lessons. TUJ also provided opportunities to talk with advisors, professors, and classmates on a regular basis. Since I considered it crucial for me to have constant academic dialogues, TUJ was the best and only choice. I was enlightened, encouraged, and saved by conversations with my advisors while working on my dissertation. More than anything else, I felt that the faculty and office staff all wanted me to succeed.

I cheer for all of you who are about to embark on your journey at TUJ, where every minute of your effort and sacrifice will be rewarded.