Denver Tutor Interview

Q. Hi, Denver! You are going to come to Japan this April! What parts of Japan are you interested in?: A. Hi! Over the past 5 years, I’ve spent time in most prefectures of the Kanto region, and also seen a bit of Kansai and Tohoku.
So, this time I’m visiting Hokkaido. Many people have told me it’s really beautiful. I have Japanese friends in Sapporo, Hakodate and Nayoro, so I should get to see a lot of Hokkaido.
Q. You have a lot of experience in teaching English. What do you like most about teaching English?: A. I love language and really I would love to learn many languages. However, history has seen English become the most widely spoken language in the world, and I enjoy helping people to become part of a “world family” of people who can communicate in the same language. The Internet is very fast making this “world family” grow bigger and more close.
Q. Would you like to share any students success stories? Like stories of students who have managed to attain their goals after learning English.: A. Career development is one of the areas where English speaking ability has clearly become a great asset for Japanese people.
This year so far I’ve had one CafeTalk student who has been successful obtaining a job with an international bank in Tokyo. Another of my students has been promoted in his company, which is a famous worldwide home furniture company. A third student has obtained a position as customers service Manager at a five star hotel in Tokyo. Travel is another aspect of life, where English is a great benefit.
So many of my CafeTalk students have shared interesting stories, and wonderful photos with me about their travels all over the world. They have told me being able to speak English has been of great benefit to them. Not only in obvious countries like the US and Australia, but even in Europe, Africa and Asia.
Q. What would you say are the main features of your lessons?: A. Since most of my students already have a strong background in English language structure and grammar, my lessons heavily emphasize conversation, listening and reading skills, based on increasing students range of vocabulary and English expressions.
Q. I know you play the guitar, you obviously like music, don’t you?: A. Definitely. I like listening to a wide range of music. Radiohead, Junip, Tom Waits, and the Strokes are a few of my favourites.
Q. You love sports,especially watching soccer! Have you checked the game Australia vs Japan game in Asia Cup?: A. It was a great game. I was disappointed to lose, but glad Japan won. Actually the J-League is mostly a higher standard than the A-League (Australia). This is because most of our best soccer players play overseas.
Q. Can you give some comments or words of advice to our students?: A. Please be patient with yourself. For adults, learning a second language takes a while. Also, try to learn regularly. 15 minutes each day, or 30 minutes each second day is the best way. If you do this for 6 months, you will be amazed at your improvement. But I must confess, I haven’t done this myself! That’s why my Japanese is still very poor after 5 years! Gambattene!