Summary
Studying abroad often feels unreal, like a dream many people add to their to-do
list but never quite reach. At the same time, attending a language school is sometimes
seen as an impractical option, criticized as a waste of time or money.
However, when approached with the right mindset and strategy, it can be an incredibly
experience. I studied in Vancouver from September to December 2025, and this article
shares not only my reflections and recommendations, but also the strategies
I used to make the most of my time there.
Why study at a language school
The main reason I chose to attend a language school was that I wanted to immerse myself in a full English-speaking environment. Before that, many aspects of using English felt abstract and distant. I didn't truly understand what everyday small talk sounded like until I experienced it firsthand.
#Assessing my English level
Through the structured classes and discussions with classmates, I developed a clearer sense of the gaps between different English levels on the CEFR scale. Moreover, I quickly learned which situations I handled well and which areas still needed improvement. For example, I could speak fluently with friends and classmates, but conversations with professionals or engineers at meetups and workshops were still challenging.
#Developing an English mindset
In that environment, it was the best opportunity to develop my English mindset. As the saying goes, "When in Rome, do as Romans do". I started doing things in English, thinking in English, and living with the language every day. This kind of immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn English. At the same time, I also built greater self-confident in English.
#Exposure to diverse accents
The mix of nationalities in my classes felt similar to what you might find in an international company. I became accustomed to listening to a wide range of accents, as most of my classmates came from East Asia or Latin America. That said, it was a bit of shame, there were only a few European classmates and no Indian classmates.
#Connecting with English learning partners
While studying at school, I also looked for partners who were willing to learn English over the long term, as language learning is a gradual process. Even after the program ended, we continue to plan regular meetings and encourage one another.
#Recommended study plan
#Ideal English level
I recommend attending a language school after reaching a pre-advanced (CEFR B2) level or above. At this stage, learners are generally able to hold basic conversations and actively participate in group discussions. Otherwise, it can be quite difficult to learn effectively alongside classmates. Before reaching this level, I suggest starting with one-on-one classes to build a stronger foundation.
#Suggested course length
Three to four months feels like a good balance. If the program is shorter, it often ends just as you begin to gain momentum and develop a real feel for the language. If it is longer, many of your classmates may return to their home countries, and you may need to rebuild your social circle and find new learning partners again.
#Choosing a language school
I recommend choosing a large language school as it usually offers more resources and a wider variety programs. For instance, I was able to experience three different programs at my school and I also could switch classes easily if I did't like a particular teaching style. In addition, I prefer schools that provides all learning materials online, since I don't enjoy carrying stacks of paper in my bag.
#Budget estimation
The estimated cost is around CA$4,400 (about NT$100,000) per month, including tuition, accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
#Avoiding my comfort zone
One important rule I set for myself was to avoid staying in my comfort zone. I tried not to limit my friendships to people from my own country. Even when I did meet classmates who shared the same native language, I made a conscious effort to communicate only in English. This helped me maintain an English-focused environment and significantly improved my confidence and fluency over time.
#Who is this experience for
- Learners who want full immersion
While higher-level learners benefit the most, a full English-speaking environment is valuable for learners at many stages. - Those seeking broader perspectives
Sharing ideas and cultures with classmates creates meaningful and natural opportunities to practice English. - People looking to break out of burnout
It’s a way to step away from daily routines while continuing to grow through learning.
Tips for learning English effectively
#Learning English through English
To develop English skills closer to those of a native speaker, we need to use English for everything, including learning English itself. I used to translate sentences in my mind before speaking, but this approach often didn't work, as many expressions cannot be translated directly. As a result, my sentences followed Chinese logic rather than natural English patterns. One piece of advice my teachers often emphasized was to develop a separate "Canadian personality" when using English. Surprisingly, it worked for both me and my friends.
#Immersing myself in English daily
Another piece of advice my teachers often gave when asked "how should we learn English?" was to do things we are genuinely interested in, but in English. Even a small amount of daily exposure is better than none. I'm now used to using English for almost everything. For example, I always ask questions to AI in English and watch Youtube videos on channels that use English.
#Interesting stories from my journey
#“What did you say” moments
All of my Taiwanese friends who I met in Vancouver shared teh same reaction when they hear this phrase, and it probably sounds exactly like my voice in their heads! Because I usually spoke English with them, whenever someone switched to Chinese, I would often respond with, "What did you say? I don't understand Chinese." I know I'm a good student and a nice friend. 🤣
#Signs of improvement
While I was in Vancouver, I became so used to using English that I hardly used Chinese for a while. One day, a friend asked me to write a Chinese letter for them, but I suddenly realized I had forgotten how to write one properly. It felt as if I had temporarily lost my mother tongue. 😂 At that point, I knew my English had improved more than I realized.
#Final thoughts
Overall, this was a meaningful and worthwhile journey. I learned a great deal, gained confidence in my English, tried many things for the first time, and met friends and long-term learning partners. When I landed back in Taiwan, it felt like waking up from a big, happy dream. However, it still shapes how I learn and live today.
Are you considering starting your next English journey?
Are you planning to study abroad?
Or have you just completed a similar experience?
I’d love to hear your story or answer questions. Feel free to share your
thoughts on this LinkedIn post.