ELC BLOG

What has your experience been like studying at ELC?

My favorite thing about ELC is that the teachers and staff take into consideration the goals and desires of each individual student and why they are studying English. Since I am older than other students at ELC my reasons for studying English are different than other students. ELC really took the time to understand my situation and needs.

Why have you chosen to study English?

I am living here in the United States and I want to be able to speak English fluently so that I can live my life here. I love living in Santa Barbara because of the nice weather. I like being able to go for walks on the beach and enjoy nice restaurants.

Where are you from?

Originally I am from Shanghai, China. I came to the U.S. with my daughter. I like living in the United States because everything is new and people are really friendly.

What are your plans and goals for the future?

I would like to continue learning English. To really improve takes a lot of time and patience. English is a very detailed language and I would like to have a full understanding of it. I own a restaurant in Houston, Texas. In a few years I would like to possibly sell the restaurant and start a new business in Santa Barbara. I would like to own a business that is targeted toward women and beauty like a dress store or a salon.

What is your restaurant like in Houston?

It is a Japanese sushi restaurant. My daughter loves sushi and really wanted me to open a sushi restaurant. Before that I had another restaurant that served Chinese food.

What have you learned from owning a restaurant?

There are certain things that are really important. The managers are really important because they control everything. Their job is complex and involves a lot of problem solving. It’s important to be organized, clean, and to always make sure the food is really fresh – especially the sushi!

What is your family like and what have you learned from them?

I have parents and two brothers. Parents give their kids life but you have to find your own happiness. For me I have found happiness by living a quality life, exercising, and resting. I learned from my parents to always consider other people and their perspective and what it’s like to be them since everyone’s life is difficult in some way.