Unlock Your Future: The Power of English and the Calling of the Shizudai Project
Greetings to all future global citizens!
Suddenly, it hits you: This is one of the best experiences I’ve had in Japan—and I’m going to tell you why this is the ver start of something incredible for you. Like me, many of you are young university students with a similar soundtrack to your dreams—one full of adventure, connection, and a world bustling with opportunities. Communicating in English is often front and center in those dreams.
It’s exactly why the Shizudai Project created a dedicated space for connection and fluency: the English Lounge. Nestled comfortably in the International Exchange Lounge, on the 7th floor, we aim to build a warm and welcoming environment where students feel empowered to practice their English skills and connect with others from diverse backgrounds.
I’ve been teaching English since 2023, and I truly believe this space can be a stepping stone to unlock a world of possibilities.
Now, I know what you might be thinking. Maybe you are shy about speaking; some just aren’t interested in pursuing languages beyond what’s familiar. I get it. Taking that first step to express yourself in a new language can be intimidating. Let me be honest, even as a language teacher I know firsthand what it’s like.
I’m Brazilian, and my native tongue is Portuguese. Learning Japanese has been an extraordinary but challenging journey for me!
There have been times when I’ve felt uncomfortable, shy, and unsure of myself. The frustration of wanting to express myself smoothly stemming from feeling lost, and there are moments when I just wanted to give up. “But I strongly believe in myself, and most importantly, I want to encourage you to have the courage to persist.
Learning a new language—like Japanese for me; it opens doors. Not just to communicate in depth and make meaningful connections, but to understand a different culture and see the world differently. Just imagine the doors a language like English could open for you!
Think about this: Maybe it isn’t essential for a life here in Japan, as many are only fluent in Japanese and lead wonderful lives without another language being a necessity. Of course, when I arrived in Japan, I thought my English skills would be enough for a fantastic experience, but I quickly realized that there’s a beauty in being able to understand and connect with as many people as possible. Plus, that job I landed – wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t (at the time, thought my English was already great!).
Think further down the road. What about your future career?
You’re preparing for a future overflowing with opportunities, some perhaps undefined right now. What if that dream job takes you overseas? What if the chance to collaborate with international teams presents itself? “You can do it!” You are capable of achieving just about anything you set your mind to. Trust your kernels of determination and know you can reach your goals – and believe in yourself.
Well, I can honestly say, I was once seated exactly where you are now!
I’ll admit, I never envisioned myself living in Japan, but a window of opportunity opened up; of course, I seized it!
While I believe the ability to speak English fluently opens up many doors worldwide, there are who don’t know what their future holds.
There’s a particular feeling I can relate to: The humbling, yet exhilarating realization that you are part of something big – a global community. It’s here at the Shizudai project.
It’s strikingly similar to the dynamism and welcoming environment of the English Lounge. As I teach, I learn, too. It’s an exchange;
Every day is a chance to reach out, to really understand another perspective. There’s nothing quite like learning something new beside one another.
I encourage you to join me and our community of passionate learners and users of the English language. You’ve started to equip yourself with a skill that will stay with you forever, and who knows what surprises await! Don’t delay. Be open to this kind of experience.
The best is, of course, me and other students, waiting for a by chance to engage in a conversation. That could be you – firmly contributing to the tapestry of ideas and life stories. Dive in; you never know what amazing things are waiting to be discovered on the other side of those initial “hello”s!
* How does the English Lounge help students build confidence in their English skills?
## Interview with Patricia Pinheiro: Unlocking Futures Through English
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Patricia! Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about the Shizudai Project’s English Lounge.
**Patricia Pinheiro:** It’s a pleasure to be here! I’m truly excited about the opportunities the English Lounge offers, and I’m eager to spread the word about its potential. [[1](https://www.eikei.ac.jp/english/communities/news/details_00530.html)]
**Interviewer:** You described your own journey of learning Japanese as challenging. How do you encourage students who might be hesitant about tackling a new language?
**Patricia Pinheiro:** Oh, I completely understand that hesitation! Learning a new language can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re surrounded by native speakers. Trust me, I’ve been there! [[1](https://www.eikei.ac.jp/english/communities/news/details_00530.html)]
However, I believe that taking that first step is crucial. Even a small effort, like attending a conversation club or practicing basic phrases, can build confidence. Remember, fluency doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about consistently challenging yourself and celebrating every accomplishment.
**Interviewer:** The English Lounge seems designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for language learning. Can you tell us more about its purpose?
**Patricia Pinheiro:** Absolutely! The English Lounge is more than just a classroom; it’s a community. It’s a place where students can come together, practice their English in a relaxed setting, and make connections with people from diverse backgrounds [[1](https://www.eikei.ac.jp/english/communities/news/details_00530.html)].
We host various events and workshops, creating opportunities for students to engage in interactive learning experiences and build their confidence. There are even workshops specifically for project beginnings.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of English for future career prospects. Could you elaborate on that?
**Patricia Pinheiro:** In today’s globalized world, English is invaluable for career advancement. It opens doors to international opportunities, allows you to communicate with colleagues from around the world, and equips you with a valuable skill set that employers highly seek. [[1](https://www.eikei.ac.jp/english/communities/news/details_00530.html)]
Think of it this way: your English skills can be your passport to a wider range of possibilities.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights and passion with us, Patricia. Any final words of advice for our viewers?
**Patricia Pinheiro:** Embrace the challenge! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, engage in conversations, and celebrate your progress. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. And remember, the Shizudai Project’s English Lounge is here to support you every step of the way. [[1](https://www.eikei.ac.jp/english/communities/news/details_00530.html)]