Student's Voice

Keith Yao

Keith Lauren Yao

Student,  De La Salle University – Manila

JLRC, true to its motto of “Less Time, Less Cost, Less Effort in Learning Japanese” has been consistent in providing only the best quality of original learning materials and unique teaching methods to suit every student’s learning style.  Inspired by Japan’s culture, I began studying N5-level Japanese in 2015 when I was in high school. It was through JLRC that I was able to deepen my understanding of the language and culture, which motivated me to continue studying Nihongo. Thanks to the effective teaching methods of JLRC, I have passed the JLPT N5 and N4, and I am now preparing to take the N3 exam. JLRC started classes in the traditional classroom setting, allowing students to concentrate and effectively learn the material. In April 2020, they started conducting online classes in lieu of face-to-face classes due to the pandemic. Eliminating the need to attend physical classes which is an issue given the circumstances. I found this to be a welcome change because we were able to complete more activities, receive extra readings and exercises, and be more productive in class. Learning Nihongo has never been more fun and convenient, thanks to JLRC!

Jessie Santos

Aerial Artist and Photographer

JLRC, true to its motto of “Less Time, Less Cost, Less Effort in Learning Japanese” has been consistent in providing only the best quality of original learning materials and unique teaching methods to suit every student’s learning style.  Inspired by Japan’s culture, I began studying N5-level Japanese in 2015 when I was in high school. It was through JLRC that I was able to deepen my understanding of the language and culture, which motivated me to continue studying Nihongo. Thanks to the effective teaching methods of JLRC, I have passed the JLPT N5 and N4, and I am now preparing to take the N3 exam. JLRC started classes in the traditional classroom setting, allowing students to concentrate and effectively learn the material. In April 2020, they started conducting online classes in lieu of face-to-face classes due to the pandemic. Eliminating the need to attend physical classes which is an issue given the circumstances. I found this to be a welcome change because we were able to complete more activities, receive extra readings and exercises, and be more productive in class. Learning Nihongo has never been more fun and convenient, thanks to JLRC!

JLRC is a straightforward school that first and foremost aims to prepare its students to pass the much-awaited JLPT, and I am proud to say that I have passed the N5 level and am currently studying for the N4 Test in December. In the beginners’ classes, we learned how to make basic introductions of ourselves along with useful everyday expressions. I learned later on that they were also very much invested in their students’ personal success, no matter what kind of background their students came from.

I am a performing artist with a particular inclination to Japanese culture. This was something that the JLRC soon found out about as we went through our lessons.

They offered me quality translation services and useful advice on how to handle job interviews, even though my line of work was not the usual kind of job they were used to.

As a relatively new Japanese language student, JLRC already gave me the confidence to study Japanese culture and figure out how I could be a part of it. They make me feel important by tailor-fitting lessons to the needs of my unique credentials.  Most of all, they continue to give me full support without judging me for my peculiarities — an attribute of theirs that I value the most. Here at JLRC, the people know how to work to the best of their abilities and are determined to see their students succeed in any field of their choice.

(You can search for Jessie’s works and performances by her artist name, JOYEN [heads-up for mature content]. Photo taken by Dar San Agustin.)

Philip John Paul Soan

Registered Civil Engineer, CCT Constructors Corp.

I started my Nihongo class N4 and N5 levels from June to August. It was a special class because we needed to learn it in just 2.5 months as we, my colleague and I, will be sent to Japan as trainees in September. At first, I thought that it would be impossible for me to learn all of it in just a short period of time, but JLRC made it possible. The school managed to make it possible; thanks to their perfect timing of lesson syllabus, their school materials (e.g. textbooks, flashcards, power points), and stupendous senseis/instructors. The syllabus was perfect in timing because they will teach you what you needed first before going to another lesson. Their materials were very helpful; it will make you understand the lessons easily.  Lastly, the senseis (teachers) are very approachable. They patiently answer all your questions about the lessons, and they will teach you the way that you can understand the lessons definitely. To sum it all, I had so much fun while studying Nihongo in JLRC. I am very thankful that this is the school my company chose, and for JLRC for the wonderful journey that I had while studying Nihongo.

Eldridge Kaiser Ilagan

Registered Civil Engineer, CCT Constructors Corp.

I started my Nihongo class N4 and N5 levels from June to August. It was a special class because we needed to learn it in just 2.5 months as we, my colleague and I, will be sent to Japan as trainees in September. At first, I thought that it would be impossible for me to learn all of it in just a short period of time, but JLRC made it possible. The school managed to make it possible; thanks to their perfect timing of lesson syllabus, their school materials (e.g. textbooks, flashcards, power points), and stupendous senseis/instructors. The syllabus was perfect in timing because they will teach you what you needed first before going to another lesson. Their materials were very helpful; it will make you understand the lessons easily.  Lastly, the senseis (teachers) are very approachable. They patiently answer all your questions about the lessons, and they will teach you the way that you can understand the lessons definitely. To sum it all, I had so much fun while studying Nihongo in JLRC. I am very thankful that this is the school my company chose, and for JLRC for the wonderful journey that I had while studying Nihongo.

It was June 25, 2019 when I and my colleague started the Nihongo training at JLRC. This is for the purpose of our One Year Training in Japan, which is the program of our company every year. Honestly speaking, learning Nihongo is very difficult, but very interesting and challenging to study. Given that our schedule is only two months, and we must finish the N5 and N4 Level, that is literally very difficult. But, with the help and teaching skills of the Sensei (teachers) at JLRC, we still completed and finish it on time. The Sensei in JLRC were very good, the fact that they will teach the lesson in a way that you can easily understand it. They were very approachable that if you cannot understand something, you can easily ask them your questions. All in all, I can say it that I really enjoyed studying Nihongo in JLRC. Thank you so much JLRC for the whole experience I had in studying Nihongo. 

Andrea Alvarez

Former Intern, De La Salle University – Manila

JLRC has been a pleasant experience for me as a person who is interested in the Japanese language and as an International Studies student who is majoring in Japanese Studies. In JLRC, I was able to practice and learn more about not only the Japanese language but also about good work ethics, the value of having a good relationship with one’s co-workers, and the emphasis on being professional in different aspects. JLRC has also been a venue that has allowed me to experience and practice both Filipino and Japanese work values and ethics which has made me into a more knowledgeable and adaptable person. I have no regrets in having my internship at JLRC and I’m very thankful for their warm acceptance, for the opportunities they’ve given me, and for teaching me many things that has helped develop me into a better and more capable person.
Apple Jusayan

Apple Jusayan

JLRC has been a pleasant experience for me as a person who is interested in the Japanese language and as an International Studies student who is majoring in Japanese Studies. In JLRC, I was able to practice and learn more about not only the Japanese language but also about good work ethics, the value of having a good relationship with one’s co-workers, and the emphasis on being professional in different aspects. JLRC has also been a venue that has allowed me to experience and practice both Filipino and Japanese work values and ethics which has made me into a more knowledgeable and adaptable person. I have no regrets in having my internship at JLRC and I’m very thankful for their warm acceptance, for the opportunities they’ve given me, and for teaching me many things that has helped develop me into a better and more capable person.

I remember walking past Shaw Boulevard and just reading store signs as I was on my way to work and this was during my early BPO years. This was when inbound and outbound calls were just starting. One sign that seemed to jump at me was about studying Japanese.That was my first introduction to Japanese Language Research Center (JLRC). And with all the information and the apps that you can download, you can easily be overwhelmed.
What should I study first?

Hiragana? And Katakana?

Plus how many Kanji characters?

Studying at JLRC prepares you for what you need to focus on. They have study materials that are available for you. You can always ask any sensei around. And the class are a good mix of students. Some have corporate jobs. From BPO companies. Others are students on their way to exchange programs. And others are going to Japan for work. You can always start upskilling with Japanese as your second or third language. My sister is with the N3 level now. She passed N5 when she was 12. Then she went on to N4. Results were out last month and she passed! And me, I am taking my sweet time, armed with my stash of highlighters and pens and am going for the basic, N5! 

(In the photo is Apple with her younger sister, Daji)

 
Apple Jusayan

Felani Tiberio Jusayan

My youngest sister Daji started studying at JLRC when she was 12 years old. At 12, she passed her N5 exams. The following year, at 13, she got her N4 certificate. Now, at 15, she is studying for her N3. This used to be unimaginable for me knowing how little self-discipline Daji had when it came to studying. JLRC has not only helped my sister pass JLPT tests but it has also changed the way my sister viewed learning. What makes JLRC different from other Japanese language schools is that they teach with the goal of having their students practice the language. The courses are meant to prepare the students to use the language in everyday life. I highly recommend JLRC. When they say you can learn Japanese in less time and with less effort, this is exactly what they mean.

Aretha Angcao

Master’s Student/Soprano, Elisabeth University of Music

My youngest sister Daji started studying at JLRC when she was 12 years old. At 12, she passed her N5 exams. The following year, at 13, she got her N4 certificate. Now, at 15, she is studying for her N3. This used to be unimaginable for me knowing how little self-discipline Daji had when it came to studying. JLRC has not only helped my sister pass JLPT tests but it has also changed the way my sister viewed learning. What makes JLRC different from other Japanese language schools is that they teach with the goal of having their students practice the language. The courses are meant to prepare the students to use the language in everyday life. I highly recommend JLRC. When they say you can learn Japanese in less time and with less effort, this is exactly what they mean.

JLRC  helped me to achieve my goal of taking my Masters degree in Vocal Music and Opera Studies in Japan. One of the conditions to get a full scholarship was to pass the N5, and JLRC helped me a lot in this area. I started with zero knowledge of Nihongo but JLRC helped me learn the language faster. As a result, I was able to qualify for a full scholarship and I am now on the second year of my studies here in Japan. I have also recently passed the N4 exam by reviewing the materials that I have received from JLRC. Thank you to all the wonderful professors of JLRC! You changed my life for the better!

(Aretha is a Filipino soprano who is currently taking her Masters degree in Voice and Opera Performance at the Elisabeth University of Music in Hiroshima where she is a full scholar. She is also a recipient of a scholarship from the Japan Association of Catholic Universities. She holds degrees in BM Music and BA Speech Communication from the University of the Philippines. She enrolled in JLRC in 2016 and has since then developed her love for Nihongo with the help of her professors from JLRC.)

Alexis Papa

Former Intern, De La Salle University – Manila

Internship at Japanese Language Research Center As an International Studies Major in Japanese Studies student, our area of expertise is best enriched when exposed and applied in an environment which helps us practice both our Japanese Language skills, work ethics, and communication skills. JLRC has helped me not only in terms of further developing my Nihongo skills, but also by inspiring me with the Japanese sense of discipline and professionalism in our workplace. I also believe that my training has taught me more than what I have learned inside our classrooms, such as values and relations with colleagues, and has enabled me to witness the sharing of culture and practices between the Japanese and Filipinos. I was welcomed warmly when I started my training in the institution, and I was able to develop good ties with the people around me and we shared a harmonious working relationship. JLRC believed in my capabilities, and with their help, I was able to further enhance my skills and abilities as I underwent training with them. I can say that I now have more work experience and am more knowledgeable when it comes to Japanese culture and their relations with the Philippines.
Jean Brutos

Jean Brutos

Multilingual Associate, Hinduja Global Solutions

Internship at Japanese Language Research Center As an International Studies Major in Japanese Studies student, our area of expertise is best enriched when exposed and applied in an environment which helps us practice both our Japanese Language skills, work ethics, and communication skills. JLRC has helped me not only in terms of further developing my Nihongo skills, but also by inspiring me with the Japanese sense of discipline and professionalism in our workplace. I also believe that my training has taught me more than what I have learned inside our classrooms, such as values and relations with colleagues, and has enabled me to witness the sharing of culture and practices between the Japanese and Filipinos. I was welcomed warmly when I started my training in the institution, and I was able to develop good ties with the people around me and we shared a harmonious working relationship. JLRC believed in my capabilities, and with their help, I was able to further enhance my skills and abilities as I underwent training with them. I can say that I now have more work experience and am more knowledgeable when it comes to Japanese culture and their relations with the Philippines.

I thought that passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test was something I will never be able to achieve, but everything changed because of JLRC. I first took classes back in September 2015 in preparation for the JLPT N4 level, then the following year for the N3 level and finally last year N2 level. Thankfully, I passed, and that is all because of the great efforts offered by this awesome and growing establishment. I am grateful to them for the hard work and help they have given me, from all the exuberant classes to concise reviewers they provide which surely made my desire to pass the JLPT. Therefore my advise to interested future Japanese students is to challenge yourself, consider taking the JLPT and “Why not try JLRC?”

Elvira Hebron

Mechanical Engineer, Taiyo Yuden

It was April 2014 when I decided to take the Nihongo lesson, brought about by the encouraging statements made by some of my cohorts and also, in particular, through my online searches. JLRC…it was there that I felt the tug that led me to where I am now. The moment that I entered, the rush was “this-is-it, finally!” It was really overwhelming how they often put their students above mere profits. The aim they actually pursued was batches of Japanese Language Proficiency Test passers. They have a really unique teaching strategy, and the student-teacher relationship extends well beyond the classroom setting, not to mention their wide portfolio of materials, modules and references to make their lectures more effective. Through the years that I spent with JLRC, I can say that it was definitely worthwhile. “To God be the glory”

Shayne Inocencio

Japanese Interpreter/ Part-time Japanese Teacher

It was April 2014 when I decided to take the Nihongo lesson, brought about by the encouraging statements made by some of my cohorts and also, in particular, through my online searches. JLRC…it was there that I felt the tug that led me to where I am now. The moment that I entered, the rush was “this-is-it, finally!” It was really overwhelming how they often put their students above mere profits. The aim they actually pursued was batches of Japanese Language Proficiency Test passers. They have a really unique teaching strategy, and the student-teacher relationship extends well beyond the classroom setting, not to mention their wide portfolio of materials, modules and references to make their lectures more effective. Through the years that I spent with JLRC, I can say that it was definitely worthwhile. “To God be the glory”

I loved studying in JLRC. JLRC was recommended to me by my friend back in 2014. I enrolled in N4 class and I didn’t have much expectations because it was just a small school back then. bubt I was surprised to find out that JLRC uses their own published books for class, and they have a curriculum that made it easier to learn Japanese. My teachers were also very supportive I never expected to pass N2 but thanks to my supportive Sensei’s I was able to pass. JLRC really standby their motto “Less Time, Less Effort, Less Cost.”  I am now an Event Interpreter and a part-time teacher and it’s all thanks to the help of JLRC. 

Thank you JLRC

Belle Echapre

Belinda Echapare

Japanese-English Translator, Online English Teacher

“What would you like to be that you wanted to do forever?”

It was a great decision I made way back in 2011 to study Japanese. It was just an existential question I had one night, and suddenly, I am living the dream of working what I really love to do. JLRC has been a great help for me and for showing me not only how I can overcome the difficulties of Japanese language, but also they helped me to enhance my skills in speaking and applying what I learned in the work that I will choose. Now, I am a Japanese-English translator to a world-class Legal Process Outsource and a Japanese Translation Service agency, and a part-time teacher to Japanese students helping them to be confident in the English language. Because of the intensive programs that JLRC offers, your love for the Japanese language is challenged; and with that you’ll learn so much that you’d love to learn more.