Have you ever worried about English? Most university students may say “yes” in answer to this question. In particular, students who will soon be looking for work are in trouble with English. I often meet a friend who has her arms full of books and is going to the library. But the books are mostly English books like TOEIC.

Her MP3 player is also filled with English listening files. These days, thousands of students in the University of Seoul (UOS) have been caught up by English education fever. The programs to promote English ability have also diversified. For example, the number of nations to studying abroad in about doubled in the last year and the number of English classes is increasing.

English has already become a universal language. It facilitates globalization, and increases the number of people who use English. How much of an effort are you making? Many freshmen start to study English and they think fluency in English is essential. However, they give up studying because of temptations: the mild days of spring, games and drinking parties to cultivate mutual friendship. In sophomore year they think, “I should study English now.”

But they fall into temptation again saying “I still have 2 years to graduate...” Junior students feel keenly the necessity of studying English, but they put off studying from day to day. If you spend your time doing this, you will be a senior before you know it. Most students know English is very important and that they should study it, but it’s not easy to do. To attain the goal takes constant effort and expense.

Don’t give up. If you already have been studying English steadily, you will get more chances in the UOS and outside of the university. Through these activities, you can also strengthen your competitiveness. Finally I expect the readers to learn real English instead of TOEIC or TOEFL.

A number of employers have already started to distrust English test scores, because they have noticed that the score cannot prove one’s ability any more. They need students who can make presentations and speak with foreign buyers in English. There are many more opportunities to improve your true English skills than you think. You can find some programs that help to improve your English. With these kinds of activities, I’m sure that you can be a competent person in the international world.
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