Most experts agree that no one method of learning a language works wonders for all people.? We do not all process information in exactly the same fashion; therefore, the ways in which we learn and use information cannot be identical for everyone. That said, it does seem clear that traveling to a country in which English is dominant and immersing oneself in the language helps the average learner make dramatic progress.
　　One reason going overseas is an effective way to learn English is that using it becomes a matter of survival.? Whether you need to order food or find a bathroom, using your native tongue is not going to help you much. You will have no choice but to communicate in the language of the land. In fact, “Survival English” can become so embedded in your brain that it may eventually rival your first language in importance.? I have first-hand experience with this; after living in Italy, I had difficulty producing certain commands and requests in English simply because Italian had become essential.
?? Studying English overseas also gives you the opportunity to observe and possibly internalize some of the cultural and social elements that are different here in Korea.?? Eating, going to see a movie, socializing ~even simple activities like riding an escalator or walking~ are all done differently in countries such as England and the U.S.? Though at first the foreign mannerisms might seem strange, eventually, you will begin to adopt them as your own.? When you start walking like a native English speaker, you will begin to feel confident talking like one, too. ?A great deal of learning a language is acting; in order to play the role, you must be the role.
　Finally, and possibly most importantly, spending some time overseas will help you to make personal connections that will last a lifetime. Your teachers, who can be great sources of assistance and support, may agree to keep in touch with you when you return to Korea.? Native English speakers, people you meet while attending festivals, baseball games or other activities, might ask you for your email address, or even make you their Facebook friends.
　 However, it is your fellow students who will most likely become your best friends and most significant learning partners. After all, their reasons for traveling are similar to yours; their goal is the same: to communicate better in English.? They will be from around the world, and the “Global English” you speak with them will inform the way you use the language in the future, especially when you enter the workforce.? After you come home to Korea and call your new friends on the phone, or when you chat with them on the internet, the English you will be using will be the evolving language of the world community.