Ten years ago, due to my poor English, I chose to travel abroad with a travel agency for the first time. But the travel experience was disappointing since I couldn’t go to the places and restaurants I wanted to go to. I made up my mind that I must travel freely by myself next time.

Then, after returning to China, I started my English learning journey; however, the vocabulary I memorized was soon forgotten. The grammar I learned couldn’t even help me say a whole sentence in front of a foreigner.  After 10 years of trying and failing, my confidence totally disappeared.

Last year, my confidence was ignited again. I tried neo, an adaptive English learning app.  I have been studying with neo for about 8 months. Following neo’s guidance, I persisted in studying 40-50 minutes each day, five days a week. Opening neo every day has become a part of my life. Through our efforts together, neo has helped me regain my pleasure, freedom and confidence in using English.

I remember one time at the airport when I was buying a drink from a vending machine.  Suddenly I heard from behind me an English voice asking: “Does this machine accept credit cards?” Unlike in the past, this time I did not avoid speaking; instead I turned around and told him confidently how to operate the machine and make the payment using his credit card. He succeeded in buying the drink! This accomplishment made me very proud of myself.  It was the first time I was ever able to help a foreigner using English.

In addition, one time I traveled to Thailand. I rented a car with a Thai driver who spoke English rather than using a Chinese driver. That saved me RMB 300 each day. neo not only helped my English but it also saved me money.

Today, I am still enjoying studying English. Thank you neo for giving me the confidence to design and live my life just like I want.