I first began to study English in my 5th grade at school. My teacher, Mrs. Ahmedova, had a unique way of making the lessons enjoyable. She didn’t rely on textbooks alone; instead, she used creative English games and activities to engage us. These games sparked something within me. They were more than just a break from the usual lessons; they were the beginning of my fascination with the English language. I vividly remember playing word puzzles, crosswords, and even role-playing conversations that felt like a fun challenge rather than work.

Every time we finished a game, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Slowly but surely, I realized how much I enjoyed learning English. Mrs. Ahmedova noticed my enthusiasm and suggested I join her after-school English course. I didn’t hesitate. That decision, though simple at the time, turned out to be a turning point in my life. It was during these after-school lessons that I understood the depth and beauty of the English language. I began to see it not just as a subject, but as a gateway to a bigger world.

From that moment onwards, I knew that English would play an important role in my life. I had discovered a passion that wasn’t just about scoring high on exams; it was about unlocking new possibilities. I started to dream bigger. I imagined traveling, studying abroad, and connecting with people from different cultures—all through the language I was growing to love.

By the time I reached 8th grade, my interest in English had only intensified. My parents, seeing how dedicated I had become, enrolled me in one of the most well-known education centers in our town. This center had a reputation for providing excellent English education, and I was excited

to begin a new chapter in my learning. Here, I didn’t just play games; I began to study English grammar systematically from the ground up.

The lessons were structured and focused, but they were also challenging. I had to grasp complex grammar rules, practice writing essays, and understand the nuances of the language. At first, it felt overwhelming, but the supportive teachers and the stimulating environment kept me motivated.

I studied at that center for nine months, making steady progress. However, just as I was getting into a rhythm, something unexpected happened. The COVID-19 pandemic began, and everything changed overnight. Schools, education centers, and all public spaces were forced to close. It was a difficult time for everyone. I couldn’t go to my English lessons anymore, and I felt a sense of loss. 

For the first time in years, I was cut off from the structured learning environment I had relied on. But like many others, I had to adapt. My teachers quickly organized online lessons, and within weeks, we were back to learning—albeit virtually. For four months, I attended classes from home, adjusting to this new way of learning. It wasn’t easy. The personal connection with my teachers and classmates was missing, and technical difficulties often disrupted lessons. Still, I persevered because I knew that stopping wasn’t an option.

Despite my best efforts, the online classes couldn’t fully replace the in-person experience. After four months of remote learning, I found it increasingly difficult to keep up. The pandemic had taken a toll on everyone, and I realized I needed a break. For six months, I put my English studies on hold. 

During that time, I reflected on my journey. I knew I wasn’t ready to give up on my dream. I still had a deep desire to master English, and I understood that this was just a temporary setback. So, after those six months, I decided to resume my studies. Fortunately, a new English center had opened in our village, and it offered exactly what I needed.

This center provided courses specifically tailored for students preparing for IELTS, and I felt ready to take that next step. I had a solid foundation in English from my previous studies, so I enrolled in the pre-IELTS program. It felt like a fresh start, and I was determined to make the most of it.

The pre-IELTS program was rigorous, but I was ready for the challenge. I knew that in order to achieve my goal of entering university, I needed to earn an IELTS certificate. The idea of taking such an important exam was intimidating, but I also felt excited about the opportunity. My new teacher at the center, Mr. Karimov, was incredibly supportive. He understood the pressure students faced and guided me in every aspect of IELTS preparation—listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Over the next year, I worked harder than I ever had before. I practiced writing essays on a variety of topics, learned how to structure my answers in the speaking test, and tackled countless reading comprehension exercises. My teacher’s feedback was invaluable, and with each passing week, I felt more confident in my abilities. There were days when I doubted myself, but I never let those doubts stop me.

By the end of the year, my hard work paid off. In 2021, I took the IELTS exam and received a score of 6.0. It was a moment of immense pride for me. That score was enough to secure a place at my dream university. I remember the day I received the news—I was overjoyed. All the effort, the long hours of study, and the challenges I had faced during the pandemic had been worth it.

Entering university felt like a new beginning. I was excited to embark on this academic journey, surrounded by new people and new opportunities. But even as I settled into university life, I knew I wasn’t done with my English studies. I still had goals to achieve. I wanted to reach a higher level, to push myself further.