For Marderey Angulo, a 24-year-old student from Limón, Costa Rica, learning English was part of a larger goal to create change. Currently studying economics, Angulo hopes to use her education to tackle social and economic issues in her country.
“I’m passionate about helping with social issues,” she said. “I wanted to combine technology with finance, and I thought those two careers could work well in the future.”
Originally enrolled in systems engineering, Angulo shifted her career path after three years, seeking a field where she could have a greater social impact. That same passion strengthened her commitment to building her English and, ultimately, to earning a certification that could help her stand out.
A Launchpad Through INA
Angulo’s journey with English began in high school, where the language is a standard part of the curriculum. But it was through the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA)—Costa Rica’s National Institute of Learning—that she found a structured path to real progress.
INA is a government-run institution that offers free or low-cost technical training and language courses to help Costa Ricans improve their skills and job readiness.
“In 2021, I started attending INA for technical studies and enrolled in their English program,” she said. “I took three levels: basic, intermediate, and high-intermediate.”
During her final English course, Angulo was introduced to the Michigan English Test (MET).
“It wasn’t required to take MET to graduate, but INA gave us the opportunity to take it,” she said. “They made all the arrangements. It was a great chance to prove everything I had learned.”
Certification with Purpose
Angulo wanted a meaningful certification she could carry into the workforce.
“In this country, it’s almost a must to know English to get a good job,” she said. “I wanted something I could show people to demonstrate that I have been learning English all this time. MET is a well-known certification, and I made the right decision choosing it.”
English, to Angulo, is a tool not just for communication, but for upward mobility and long-term impact.
“For me, learning English was very important,” she said, “but I also wanted to prove my level to show I was serious about my education and goals.”
From Preparation to Confidence
Leading up to the exam, Angulo felt a mix of excitement and nerves.
“I was very nervous because my classmates had already taken the test, but I hadn’t,” she said. “I was afraid my skills weren’t enough to reach my goal.”
With support from her INA instructors, sample tests, and a pre-test webinar, she felt prepared.
“The sample test was very accurate and I did it three days before the test,” she said. “That really helped.”
The test day brought a wave of anxiety, but also a realization once she began testing.
“At first, I was very nervous. But I’m always nervous about taking tests. I quickly realized I knew what was on MET and how to answer. I concentrated, and I felt more relaxed as time passed,” she said.
Strength and Comfort on Test Day
Angulo earned scores that aligned with her goals, especially in listening.
“For me, it’s not difficult to understand people talking,” she said. “But speaking was harder. That’s my area of improvement.”
The speaking portion pushed her comfort zone. “You see the image and have to describe it, but I didn’t know what to say,” she recalled. “Still, the interviewer was very friendly and helped me feel comfortable.”
Angulo feels that the test’s friendly format helped her stay calm and confident, even during sections that challenged her.
Advice for Future Test Takers
Now that she’s taken MET, Angulo sees it gaining visibility in Costa Rica.
“A lot of people are thinking about taking the test. Since INA promotes it, and people really trust INA, more people are seeing MET as a strong option,” she said. “More of my friends are talking about taking MET.”
Her best advice is to take the opportunity if it’s available and prepare with the resources provided.
“The sample tests really helped,” she said. “You just have to concentrate. You either know it or you don’t, but the test gives you the chance to show what you know.”
Looking Ahead
Angulo is currently looking for work while continuing her studies in economics. With her English certification, she’s feeling more prepared to pursue opportunities that align with her passion for social good. “I want to continue studying and start my career,” she said. “But I’d also like to start working in the meantime to earn money. I think my English level and certification will help with that.”
For Angulo, English and MET are tools she’s using to build a more just, connected future, not only for herself, but for the communities she hopes to serve.
Learn more about MET.