Teaching English in Japanese corporations has been an exciting journey, full of surprising, rewarding, and challenging moments. Meeting professionals from various industries has given me a glimpse into diverse perspectives and attitudes toward learning. Some students approach lessons with enthusiasm, while others are more resistant, leaving behind equally memorable impressions.
One particular morning stands out. I arrived early for class, only to find the building locked. At 9:00 a.m., I used the intercom to contact the Personnel Department. A hesitant voice responded, unsure if I was even scheduled to teach. After a long pause, he confirmed my role and let me in, but the class started 40 minutes late, leaving barely enough time for the class. Such situations test patience but highlight the unique challenges of navigating corporate dynamics.
Another time, I corrected a student on the importance of capitalizing "English." With a shrug, he replied in Japanese, "Capital E or lowercase e—who cares?" While his indifference was frustrating, it reminded me of the variety of priorities learners bring to the learning table.
On the brighter side, one student once shared, “Your class keeps my mind sharp all day. Thank you.” His kind words made my day, even though he didn’t attend the next session. Moments like these underscore the impact teaching can have, no matter how brief.
Through all the ups and downs, teaching in this setting has taught me to adapt, stay patient, and connect with students in useful ways. Every encounter, whether frustrating or uplifting, has enriched my understanding of what it means to teach and inspire.
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