Studying English in Vancouver: Hyeji’s Story at VGC International College

Hello I’m Choi Hyeji from Korea, and I came to Vancouver to study English. I took the Global English program at VGC International College for six months.

What attracted you to enroll in the English program at VGC?

At first, I prioritized studying over activities, so I was looking for a school with a well-structured English program. I chose VGC because, compared to other language schools, it offered a more systematic curriculum and a wide range of elective classes, which helped me focus on areas I needed to improve. I also liked the Plus Classes, which allowed me to strengthen my English skills through extra lessons after school. On top of that, VGC had fun and diverse activities every day, giving me many opportunities to spend time with friends from different countries. That balance between study and social life was one of the main reasons I decided to enroll.

In what ways has the course enhanced your English skills and development?

During the Global English program, the core classes helped me build a strong foundation in grammar, writing, and speaking by learning with classmates at the same level. Through elective and Plus Classes, I was able to apply what I learned in the core classes to real-life situations through discussions and various interactive activities, which directly improved my English skills.

Since grammar and speaking were my weak areas, I focused on those in my elective and Plus Classes. In the grammar elective, instead of just solving grammar exercises, I was able to improve my grammar by actively using it in conversations with my classmates. In the Plus Classes, I practiced speaking in a fun and comfortable environment, which helped me gain confidence and fluency in my spoken English.

Do you think this course will help you in your future career?

Actually, I attended a foreign language high school in Korea where English was my main subject. However, because of the rote memorization style of education there, I used to learn English only for exams and test results, which made English feel stressful and unpleasant over time.

Since coming to Vancouver and studying at VGC, I was able to rebuild my English foundation and rediscover my interest in the language. I have improved my English skills even more than when I was in high school.

Most importantly, I learned not to be ashamed of my mistakes anymore. Instead, I now see every mistake as an opportunity to grow, which has helped me gain real confidence in using English.

I’m confident that everything I learned at VGC will give me the energy and strength to succeed in whatever I do in the future.

How would you rate the support you got from your teachers and staff?

I would rate the support from my teachers and staff at VGC very highly.

They were always kind, approachable, and willing to help whenever I had questions or felt unsure. Jon, Stephanie, and Alcina especially made the classes comfortable and fun, always teaching in a friendly, easygoing way like friends. Thanks to them, I felt more confident using English and motivated to keep improving.

Are you happy with the classmates you have? Have you been able to create networks or connections through this program?

Yes, I’m really happy with the classmates I had during the program.

Everyone came from different countries and backgrounds, so I was able to learn a lot about different cultures while improving my English. We helped each other, shared experiences, and had a lot of fun during classes and activities. Outside of school, I spent unforgettable moments with them — going hiking, having picnics, and even visiting amusement parks together. We became really close, and when it was time to say goodbye, I was so sad that I even cried. I truly hope to meet them again someday.

What made you want to study here in Vancouver? Is there a memorable moment or activity that you’d like to share?

I wanted to study in a place that wasn’t just a big city, but one where nature and city life come together in a safe and peaceful environment.

I learned that Canada is a multicultural country where I could meet people from many different backgrounds, and among the cities, Vancouver seemed like the most ideal place for me. That’s why I chose to come here.

One memorable experience I had was in my first week in Vancouver. Even though I had just arrived, many Canadians started conversations with me through small talk. At that time, I didn’t have much confidence in speaking English, so I couldn’t keep the conversations going very well.

But now, I actually enjoy starting small talk myself and having fun conversations with people from different backgrounds. People even ask me for directions now—and I can give them! It makes me feel like I’ve truly adapted to life in Vancouver, and that’s something I’m really proud of.

Would you recommend VGC to other students who want to study English in Vancouver?

Yes, I would absolutely recommend VGC to anyone who wants to study English in Vancouver. VGC offers not only a well-structured English program but also a warm and supportive learning environment.

The teachers are kind and always willing to help, and the classes are both practical and engaging. There are also many opportunities to make friends from all over the world through activities and group projects.

Personally, I was able to regain my confidence in English and enjoy learning it again thanks to VGC. I hope that students like me—who once lacked confidence in English—can come here and realize that making mistakes is just part of the learning process. At VGC, you can rediscover the fun in learning English while spending joyful days with friends from different countries. It’s not just a language school — it’s a place where you can grow, connect, and truly enjoy the journey of learning.