Exploring EFL University Students' Strategies to Overcome Speaking Anxiety in the English Corner Program

Abstract

Speaking anxiety remains one of the most persistent psychological barriers faced by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, particularly when they are required to communicate spontaneously in front of others. This study aims to explore the strategies employed by EFL university students to overcome speaking anxiety within the English Corner Program, an informal speaking activity conducted outside the classroom at the Islamic University of Kalimantan Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari (UNISKA MAB) Banjarmasin. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving ten undergraduate students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and field observations, then analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that to cope with these challenges, students applied psychological strategies (self-motivation, positive thinking, and relaxation), social strategies (peer and instructor support), and practical strategies (continuous practice and exposure). Repeated participation was found to significantly reduce anxiety and strengthen students' confidence over time. These findings suggest that informal, low-pressure speaking environments such as the English Corner Program play an important role in helping EFL university students manage speaking anxiety and develop their oral communication skills.