ACE PROGRAM'S EXPERIENCE

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What if you had the opportunity to improve your English in the US? Would you feel confident leaving the comfort of your home and country to take a chance on this new endeavor? Today I’ll tell you my story about when I went to the US to improve my English in the Grossmont ACE Program. I'll also share the importance of saying YES to the opportunities that life gives you and stepping out of the comfort zone.                                              

The Beginning

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Opportunities often arise, and we don't know if it’s the right time, or even if we’re ready for it. In mid-2023, my family and I already had the idea of traveling abroad to improve my English, as it’s something so necessary these days. And in 2024, I finally had the chance to go to a course in the US, with a variety of professors and students, each with their own culture and styles. An experience that truly impacted me was my first day at Grossmont, Orientation Day. I remember it like it was yesterday: all new students gathered, the grandeur of the college, and there I was, just one of many. Many questions came to mind that day. It was precisely that day that the penny dropped.

From Stress to Confidence

I'd say everyone reacts to adversity differently. Stress can also be interpreted and managed, but that day, it was very difficult to manage my feelings. But the hours passed, I met the students, each introduced themselves, I also understood my level of English, and little by little, I became more confident. Confidence, it would be so nice if we could buy that on the corner, wouldn't it? But surely, if it were that easy, I wouldn't have the same results. And it's precisely these experiences that gave me confidence. I did my best to study, read, listen to the teachers, and, above all, get to know the students in my class, because traveling is also about connecting with other people.

With Challenge Comes Evolution

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One of the greatest challenges I often face is how to break out of a routine once I've adapted. Will I have the confidence and even the security to get through it? These kinds of questions crossed my mind at first, but today I recognize that these challenges were very necessary. Now, I can adapt to various scenarios more easily, I've become more resilient, I've improved my English, and I even learned to cook. This shows the importance of always challenging yourself.

    

Looking to the Future                                              

This opportunity I had can lead to many others, such as going to university, and getting better jobs in the future. Indeed, improving English can open many doors. What about you, Dear reader? How do you feel about being taken out of your comfort zone? And please, if you have any questions, or suggestions, don’t hesitate to comment. Until the next adventure.