SCHOOL CULTURE DIFFERENCES I remember my first day attending the advanced ESL class. At that time, I had been in the US for only two months. I was very nervous, but I was also excited about learning English. I was quiet and unable to speak at all on my first day because I was surprised by the differences between Japanese and American learning styles. First, students are expected to raise their hands and speak actively in class. On the other hand, when I was a student in Japan, being quiet and listening carefully was valued. It was frightening for me when teachers called on students who didn’t raise their hands and made them speak. Second, there is a lot of group work. In Japan, the traditional lecture style is that the teacher talks and the students listen, whereas in the US, classes often involve group work and active discussions. Since I am not confident in my English speaking skills, I still struggle to join discussions, and it often leaves me feeling frustrated. In addition, the class includes students from many different countries. This is very interesting to me, and I am happy to learn about their cultures. It is a very special experience. I enjoy talking with my classmates, and it motivates me to come to school. Although I was initially confused by the differences, I enjoy this new style of learning now. Besides enjoying learning English, I can also understand how my daughter feels at her elementary school. It feels as if we are walking on the same path, step by step, learning side by side. One of my resolutions for 2026 is to raise my hand in class at least once a day. My daughter has the same goal. We cheer for each other quietly, like two small birds trying to fly a little higher each day. Because of that, we have become closer, and our daily life feels peaceful and warm—like gentle sunlight coming through the window in the morning. The teachers are wonderful, and the lessons are thoughtfully designed to support our growth. Each new activity brings a mix of nervousness and excitement. I have come to appreciate that feeling. In Japan, there is a saying that you can begin learning even at sixty. I feel this is absolutely true because learning has no age limit. My heart feels lighter now, and I am genuinely enjoying studying. I am grateful for the chance to meet such excellent teachers and classmates from many different countries. Being in this class is like being in a colorful garden where every flower has a different story. Tomoko is a student in the Advanced ESL class in the morning
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