Student Voices: Koki

As a proud graduate of the ILE: TESOP Program for my master’s degree, I can confidently say that the foundation built there has been instrumental in shaping my academic journey. Currently, as a PhD student at Soka University, I rely on the content learned, the skills acquired through comprehensive courses, and the grit tested during my master’s studies, which continue to serve as the bedrock of my doctoral research. My focus on learner autonomy not only enriched my master’s experience but also paved the way for a series of presentations, publications, and collaborations with esteemed colleagues in academia. Furthermore, the ILE: TESOL Program developed my academic abilities and equipped me with the essential skills to be an effective English teacher. Even after more than a decade since graduation, I still actively apply the teaching strategies and knowledge I gained during the program.