"Having lived in Montreal, Canada as a teenager, my first experience with language learning was French, by necessity. In the 1990's I took it upon myself to learn Spanish, both from a tutor in Atlanta, and then in a month-long immersion course in Costa Rica. I know first-hand what it is to want to learn and improve a second language, and like to work with students who want to do the same. To that end, I have both instructed and managed language classes and programs since 2001, and have worked with students from over 70 countries. This includes preparing students for the USCIS Naturalization Interview.

I have taught ESL since receiving my TESOL certificate in 2001. I enjoy introducing students of all levels to my native language as well as the culture and customs of our country. My lessons are a mix of the four language skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, along with vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar. From my personal experience, a language is not truly learned until it can be used in real-life situations, so application of learned skills is always part of my instruction. Practice is very important so there is always ample time for my students to "make the language their own."

My BA is in English from Emory University, and I completed the TESOL certification course at Seattle University's Graduate School of Education. Originally from the midwest, I speak with a neutral American English accent. My experience has shown that student-centered learning is the key to accessing language skills, so I try to get to know what is important to the individual. I encourage questions - clarifying information is key to language acquisition and fluency.

My schedule is flexible and I will work with you to meet your goals of improving your English or passing the USCIS interview. I look forward to meeting you!" less...