Study English in Massachusetts | Student Experience at ILI

Learning English Beyond the Classroom

During his time in Massachusetts, Keita also volunteered at the Paradise City Arts Festival.

Keita Hayakawa, who studied in ILI’s Intensive English Program from May to June 2026, shares his experiences learning English in Northampton, ordering coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts, touring Boston City Hall, visiting Stephen King’s hometown, and watching Twin Peaks at Amherst Cinema. Keita’s experiences show just how much language and culture you can experience in an English immersion program in the US.

1. Why did you decide to study English in Massachusetts?

To begin with, I made a list of some college towns. I thought a college town would be an ideal place to focus on learning English because they are relatively compact, easy to live in, and culturally rich. After considering several options, I chose ILI Massachusetts, and it turned out to be the right decision. I could focus on my studies and experience the rich history of the Pioneer Valley. It was a wonderful experience.

2. What surprised you most about studying English in the USA?

The importance of speaking and listening. At first, even ordering a coffee and a donut at Dunkin’ felt harder than any English test I had ever taken. It made me realize what I needed to work on. The curriculum of the classes also surprised me. I was able to apply what I learned in class to daily life, and the process worked well to improve my skills.

3. What did you do as a student at ILI that helped you improve your English skills the most?

Attending class every day was the most important thing. Developing a habit of studying isn’t easy for anyone, including myself. By keeping up with daily classes, I was able to maintain the right amount of study time in the right way. I also felt my English improved through conversations with my host families and my roommate, participating in local events, and small talk at local shops. Sometimes I couldn’t immediately find the right words and felt frustrated, but well, that’s part of the learning process!

Keita with his morning intensive English class with his classmates and teacher.

4. Besides studying English, what did you do outside of class that you found most rewarding?

After completing my program, I had a few weeks before returning to Japan. In that period, I visited Portland and Bangor in Maine, which was so memorable. I was like “I want to see the hometown and settings of my favorite author, Stephen King!”. I fully enjoyed culture, local food, and Stephen King spots. Now, when I read his books, I’ll be able to feel the atmosphere of his world more deeply!

5. We’d love it if you told us more about what interests and inspires you. The arts? Nature?

I’m interested in exploring different cultures. I always want to see and experience them with my own eyes if possible. For example, after watching a famous documentary called “City Hall”, I got interested in the architecture of Boston City Hall and the people working there. Since I was staying in Massachusetts, I found a guided tour of City Hall and joined it. It was incredibly interesting.

6. We know you’re an avid reader and a movie buff. Which would you rather do on a rainy day: read a Stephen King book or watch a David Lynch movie?

I’d spend the day at home watching a David Lynch film because bad weather could be a good compliment to his films. During my stay in Northampton, I luckily found a Twin Peaks retrospective at the theater in the next town (the wonderful Amherst Cinema!). Going there after Tuesday’s class to watch it was one of my best memories. Of course, a rainy day is also the perfect opportunity to read Stephen King’s massive novels, like “11/22/63”, “The Stand”, or “IT”.

7. What advice would you give someone who is thinking about coming to Massachusetts to study English?

I recommend actively sharing what you experience and feel outside of class with your teachers and classmates. It’s great practice for your vocabulary and expression, and it often leads to discovering new people and places. Massachusetts has many wonderful cafes, shops, thrift stores, museums, theaters, parks, trails, and historic spots. Explore them and share your experiences!

8. Is there anything you’d like to add related to studying English in Massachusetts?

Try some authentic New England maple syrup! Enjoy your time both inside and outside the classroom!

Experience English Immersion in Massachusetts

Inspired by Keita’s experience? Explore ILI’s 21-hour-per-week intensive English program and 15-hour-per-week semi-intensive English program to find a learning experience that fits your goals.

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Studying English in Massachusetts: Keita’s Experience at ILI