大学受験合格を英語のゴールにはしない

多くの人が、大学受験を英語のゴールにしてしまっている現状があります。私も当時はそうでした。非常にもったいないです。

大学受験ではなく、留学や英検1級合格、英語の論文読解や執筆など、もっと高いレベルの目標をたててほしいと思います。

東大や一橋大学、早慶の学生でさえ、大学に合格したら英語の勉強を辞めてしまう人が数多くいます。もったいないです。

もちろん、学生個人の志向によって、学ぶ英語は変えてよいと思います。就職やビジネスにしか興味がないのであれば、FT（フィナンシャル・タイムズ）などを読めばいいでしょう。理系であれば、理系・技術英語を勉強すればいいでしょう。

アメリカ合衆国との賃金格差が広がっているため、留学して、アメリカで就職することができれば、日本の年収の2倍以上は稼げます。そう考えると、実は東大にこだわる必要もないことがわかるでしょう。アメリカで働けば、MARCH卒であっても余裕で東大卒の年収を上回ることができるでしょう（東大卒の年収はアメリカ底辺大学と同じ）。ただし、留学は多額の費用がかかります。そのため、中学受験や私立中学に多額の費用をかけるよりは、留学のために温存する作戦のほうがよいような気もしています。日本の大学で2年間、アメリカで2年間という編入作戦でもいいと思います。

Don't Cross the Finish Line: Why College Entrance Exams Aren't the End of Your English Journey

Many Japanese students, fueled by the pressure of college entrance exams, see English as a hurdle to jump, not a skill to nurture. This is a missed opportunity! While passing these exams is crucial, it shouldn't mark the end of your English language adventure. Instead, let's explore why setting your sights higher, towards goals like studying abroad, achieving the EIKEN Level 1 proficiency, or engaging in deeper academic pursuits, can unlock exciting new doors.

Imagine graduating from a prestigious university like Tokyo University or Hitotsubashi University, only to find your English stagnating. Unfortunately, this is a common scenario. Many high-achieving students believe their English journey ends with exams, leaving them unprepared for a globalized world. Don't let this be you! By setting ambitious goals beyond entrance exams, you cultivate valuable skills and open doors to incredible experiences.

Think about studying abroad. Immersing yourself in another culture, attending lectures, and socializing with native speakers catapults your English to new heights. Imagine confidently navigating bustling New York streets, debating current events in London, or discussing scientific discoveries in Berlin. These experiences not only enhance your fluency and comprehension but also broaden your perspective, fostering adaptability and critical thinking – essential qualities in today's interconnected world.

But studying abroad isn't the only option. Aiming for the EIKEN Level 1, the highest level of the English Proficiency Test, demonstrates your dedication and opens doors to careers demanding exceptional English skills. Or, delve into the world of academic English by reading and writing research papers. This not only strengthens your academic language but also hones your critical analysis and communication skills, valuable assets in any field.

Some may argue that focusing solely on exams leads to better college placements and secure careers. However, consider this: the USA's higher salaries mean that even a MARCH graduate with a job there could potentially outpace the earnings of a Tokyo University graduate in Japan. This highlights that English opens doors to diverse and lucrative opportunities beyond traditional Japanese career paths.

Of course, we understand that resources are limited. Instead of investing heavily in junior high entrance exams or private junior high schools, consider channeling those funds towards study abroad expenses. The return on investment for international experience and advanced English skills can far exceed the benefits of early selective education.

Remember, the journey doesn't have to be all or nothing. Consider a 2+2 program: two years at a Japanese university, followed by two years at an American university. This allows you to experience both academic systems while honing your English in an immersive environment.

In conclusion, while college entrance exams are important, viewing them as the end of your English journey does you a disservice. Set your sights higher! Aim for studying abroad, achieving the EIKEN Level 1, or pursuing academic endeavors. By embracing these challenges, you unlock a world of possibilities, develop invaluable skills, and position yourself for success in a globalized future. Don't cross the finish line; let your English journey continue, leading you to exciting destinations beyond college entrance exams.