Mike Owen dreams of becoming an English teacher in Japan. He began his journey towards fulfilling that dream with the BA (Hons) TESOL with Japanese degree at the University of Central Lancashire.
Mike chose the University of Central Lancashire after attending an Open Day and Offer Holder Day. After visiting he knew that Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with Modern Language was the course for him. He was particularly impressed by the presentations and the facilities. Mike told us: ‘Meeting the staff and exploring the campus reassured me that I would be supported and have access to all the necessary resources to reach my potential. I highly recommend paying a visit to the campus during these events if you are still undecided.’
Mike's first year has been rich with opportunities to improve his employability skills. As a Student Ambassador, he earned money while helping at Open Day events, guiding prospective students and their families. This role helped to improve his confidence and communication skills.
"I highly recommend paying a visit to the campus during these events if you are still undecided."
— Mike Owen - BA(Hons) TESOL with Japanese
One highlight for Mike was volunteering at the University’s 10th annual Japan Day. Mike enjoyed cultural activities, like the tea ceremony and taiko drumming. He also helped visitors to practice calligraphy. Mike has also joined the Japan Society at the University. The Japan Society has helped him to make friends with other students including Japanese exchange students. This has enriched his learning with cultural experiences.
During this first year Mike has had opportunity to gain real, practical teaching experience with adult English learners from the local community. All of this practical and hands-on experience is key to Mike reaching his goal of becoming a teacher of English in Japan.
There are so many exciting opportunities ahead and Mike is already looking forward to spending four weeks of his Summer in Japan! He has enrolled in a summer school program at a partner institution. Here he will have Japanese language lessons and take part in cultural activities. The Global Opportunities team have helped to secure funding for his trip.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed multiple aspects of my first year at UCLan which has absolutely flown by. I have found all of my lessons to be highly enjoyable. This is largely owed to the enthusiasm and support of my lecturers."
— Mike Owen - BA(Hons) TESOL with Japanese
Looking ahead, Mike told us: ‘I will also have the opportunity to attain the Trinity CertTESOL qualification, at no additional cost, which is internationally recognised and highly valued by employers in the sector throughout the world.’
Mike has chosen to take the exciting optional study abroad period in Year 3. Mike is looking forward to choosing a partner institution where he will travel abroad to study and immerse himself in language and culture.
For students who are considering studying at University Mike has this advice. “My advice to applicants would be to do as much research as you can. As well as reading about universities on the internet, I would strongly recommend visiting during Open Day and Offer Holder Day events to get a real taste for the university and campus. I would encourage applicants to speak to other departments as well as the academic teams from your chosen course(s) to find out about all the amazing opportunities available to you during your time as a student and afterwards. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions even if you think they are silly. The staff and Student Ambassadors are on hand to advise, and if you are unsure about something, it is not unlikely that other people are unsure too.”
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- Subject
TESOL
