One of the joys of learning anything new is simply learning itself. It is a real pleasure of knowing something new as if a flower bud of unknown origin opens. A horizon becomes even wider and brighter.”
Taka, Korean student
At 90 years old, Taka is embracing a new learning adventure by studying Korean.
Taka’s journey with languages began more than 60 years ago when, one year after graduating from university in Osaka, Japan, she left home to study English at the University of Alberta. Travelling to Canada alone on a small freight ship for a two-week voyage, she expected to return to Japan after one year to become an English teacher. Instead, she met her husband and made Canada her home. After 62 years of happy marriage, Taka's husband passed away two and half years ago.
In the years since, Korean dramas on YouTube have become a new source of enjoyment for Taka. “As I watched them every night, I became interested in the Korean language and wished I could understand stories without subtitles.” That curiosity led her to discover the Korean language courses offered by UBC Extended Learning. The online format of the courses has allowed her to continue learning from home and avoid travelling in the evening. In no time, learning a new language became about much more than vocabulary and grammar—it opened the door to new experiences and connections.
Many of her classmates were working professionals balancing their studies with busy schedules, and Taka admired their dedication and perseverance while continuing to challenge herself to learn new words and grammar. “It is a pleasure to meet classmates who share the same interest,” she says. Through the experience, she has found great joy in the learning process and appreciated the encouragement and knowledge of her instructor, Dongkyong Jung.
Her studies also inspired a trip to Korea, where the picture above was taken. During her annual visit to Japan, Taka extended her travels to visit some of Korea's most famous sightseeing destinations with her daughter. Although the trip was too short to meet many local residents, she hopes that continuing to study Korean will help her connect with more people and better understand their stories.
Looking ahead, Taka is eager to continue her Korean language journey with UBC Extended Learning. “One of the crucial elements for language learning is continuity and persistence,” she says. Taka looks forward to building her skills, connecting with her classmates and instructor, and continuing to explore the language and culture that have opened a new horizon for her.