Rapid English Fluency Series

We have talked about teaching English abroad in one of our previous posts. Today, we open our blog to an ESL teacher in the US to learn more about her experience. 

The Rapid English Fluency Series is a chance for our readers to connect with other English language learners and professionals who are using their skills personally and on the job. We give our special guests an opportunity to share their experiences with our community to inspire, encourage, and speak truths about their language learning journeys. Happy reading! 

Tell us about yourself

I am an English as a Second Language instructor, a yoga teacher, and a lacrosse coach. I love working with, learning from, and helping people.

When did you start teaching?

I started teaching in 2015, but I became an ESL teacher in 2019.

What motivated you to become a teacher?

I like working with people and building relationships. Teaching is dynamic and allows me to be creative, learn daily, and continue to improve both in and out of the classroom.

What do you do when you’re not teaching?

When I’m not teaching ESL classes, I enjoy working out, walking my dogs, and watching Netflix or Hulu with my husband.

Do you teach online or in-person?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, I taught in-person classes. I am currently teaching online until my department goes back to campus.

What difficulties have you encountered when teaching?

I teach students from all over the world who have various levels of education, experience with technology, and English. When working with students who aren’t familiar with the American education system, or who don’t know much English, etc., I have to find ways to help them while also keeping the entire class engaged in the material I’m teaching.

What do you like about teaching?

I love getting to know my students and learning from them! I enjoy teaching them new information, but I am thankful that I also get to learn from them. Additionally, it feels really good when my students tell me how much they like my classes or how much they’ve learned because I know they’re studying English to add to their skill set and to help them in different areas of their lives.

Do you speak another language?

I speak some German; I used to be more conversationally fluent when I lived in Germany and studied it in school, but I haven’t used much German since living there. I lived in Germany for a year during college and for four months after I graduated college.

Do you have a certification related to your job?

Yes. I have my master’s degree in education and my teaching license, but my teaching license is actually for ELA grades 7-12. I couldn’t have predicted I would be teaching ESL to college students, but I’m so glad I stumbled into this field of teaching.

What is one of your most memorable teaching experiences?

One of my most memorable teaching experiences is when I was playing a game with my students in class, and everyone was laughing and having so much fun. I really felt like we were all part of a community and just felt really happy to be there. Teaching can be difficult at times, but when the class dynamic is fun and relaxed, it makes everything more enjoyable.

What tips can you give to new teachers?

Don’t try to do it all at once; things take time (like anything in life), so take it step by step, and be okay with making mistakes. Seek advice from other teachers and don’t be afraid to let people know when you need help.

What is the best part of teaching?

The best part of teaching is getting to be active, building rapport with current students, and working with new students every term. I get to know so many different people, and because I teach ESL, I learn more about different languages and cultures when I meet new students.

What are your social media handles where our readers can engage with you?

My Instagram handle is @factsaboutenglish

Takeaway

Teaching English as a second language brings happiness as you help people from all over the globe reach their goals. A smile on students’ faces after passing an exam and being able to communicate more confidently are the most gratifying prizes any teacher can receive. Although it can sometimes be challenging to get used to new topics or cultures, teaching can accommodate any setting and make the experience more enjoyable.