How to learn English

Ivan Alexeyev, a sophomore at D. Serikbayev EKTU, participated in the Yessenov Foundation’s English Language Program in 2025. The Kazakhstani student had a B2 proficiency level when he started his classes with instructor Antony Durrant. Over the course of a year, he prepared for the IELTS and achieved an overall score of 8.0. According to the official interpretation of IELTS results, this score is at the C1-C2 boundary. How can one achieve such a result? Ivan will share his life hacks.

 Why this specialization?
I chose Information Systems because I’ve wanted to pursue a career in the IT field since secondary school. I believe that with this kind of education, finding a job will not be a problem.

What I wanted to gain from the English Language Program
First and foremost, it was an opportunity to assess my level of English through taking the IELTS exam. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the Program includes specialized preparation for IELTS Academic with international instructors, rather than just ordinary language courses. To join the Program, we took a placement test. The results helped assign us – both EKTU students and faculty members – to groups. Frankly speaking, I didn’t set any specific goals. However, once the exam date was announced, a target emerged – a score of 7.0. To my surprise, I scored an 8.0.

What were the classes like
The instructor for my group was Antony, and to this day, he is the best English teacher I have ever met. He helped us feel more confident, and it was always pleasant and easy to talk with him. The way he conducted the classes made it clear that he is a professional with extensive experience in English teaching and IELTS preparation. Routine assignments were always paired with speaking practice, which I believe was the most valuable part of the entire Program.

Taking the IELTS exam
My group took the IELTS at a local language center officially accredited by the British Council. I was almost late for the Speaking test, which, of course, made me quite nervous. The topics were quite standard – nothing too difficult. For instance, one of the questions was: “And do you consider yourself good with technology?” Listening and Writing turned out to be even easier, with everyday topics. However, Reading was truly academic, featuring complexly worded texts on historical topics, such as the era of the Roman Empire.

How to learn English the right way?
1.
There is no secret, but there is one crucial point that makes the process easier. First of all is language immersion. The internet and AI can become your best friends. Watch content in a foreign language, and you will quickly catch the nuances of native speakers’ casual speech. Start with something accessible, such as news or TED Talks.

2.
However, listening and reading – even out loud – is not enough. You must also practice speaking. The Shakhmardan Yessenov Foundation provided us with a native-speaking instructor, which was undoubtedly helpful. You, however, can use AI to practice speaking. Most modern neural networks offer not only voice input but also a live voice chat with AI. This is an excellent opportunity if you cannot afford a tutor or find international speaking partners.

Now and beyond
I have moved on to the third year of my bachelor’s degree. I am doing an internship this summer, and the new academic year starts in September. After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to apply to a foreign university for a degree in a related field.

And in my free time…
I think that nowadays, people have forgotten how to rest and see hobbies simply as purposeless leisure. However, I managed to find one such passion for myself – astronomy and astrophotography. Currently, I build a DIY reflecting telescope, and I plan to observe celestial objects, take pictures of them, and process the images.