How did you first learn about SSJ?

I first learned about SSJ through Haruka’s YouTube channel, Haru no Nihongo and Noriko’s channel, Japanese with Noriko. Around that time, I was planning my very first trip to Japan. Since I wanted to study Japanese before the trip, I thought it would be a good idea to give SSJ a try.

Before joining SSJ, I had been studying on my own using the app “Anki.” However, I felt nervous about speaking Japanese during the trip, so I decided to take conversation lessons. I also looked for classes in the Netherlands, but I only found beginner or advanced-level courses. There wasn’t really an environment that matched my level.

That’s what made SSJ so attractive to me. They offer three levels—lower-intermediate, intermediate, and advanced—so it was easy to find a class that suited me. I thought it was a perfect fit. On top of that, the fact that they have classes on weekends was also a big plus, since it made scheduling much easier. Joining SSJ became the turning point that got me started on more serious Japanese study.

Why did you choose group classes instead of private lessons?

Personally, I feel more comfortable speaking in a group class. Now I’m more used to speaking, but at the beginning, I was really nervous since I hadn’t spoken much Japanese before.

In private lessons, you’re expected to do all the talking yourself. But in group lessons, there are times when you can just listen, and it also helps that there are other learners at the same level as me. For me, group classes felt like a much more relaxing and reassuring environment.

How have you changed since joining SSJ?

The biggest change is that I’ve gained confidence in speaking. Before, I would get stuck focusing on mistakes and couldn’t keep a conversation going smoothly. Now, of course I still make mistakes, but I don’t worry about them as much, and I’m able to continue conversations. Thanks to that, I also feel like my speaking speed has gotten faster.

Another big change is that I developed a regular study habit. When I was studying on my own, there were times when I would stop for a while. But with SSJ, I now study a little bit every week. As a result, I was able to pass the JLPT N3. Honestly, without SSJ, I don’t think I could have passed.

Also, the diversity among members has been very inspiring. Some people are more advanced than me, and some are just starting out. I really enjoy that variety.

What are your future goals?

My goal is to pass the JLPT N2 and work in Japan. After my previous trip, I started to seriously think, “I want to live in Japan.” So my current goals are to pass N2 and find a job in Japan.

A message to those interested in SSJ

If you’re like me and don’t feel very confident, I think you should just give it a try once. If it doesn’t fit, you can always stop. But even trying it once is worth it. Everyone is kind, and it’s totally okay to make mistakes.