From a '0' to a Hero1/5/2018 ![]() I’d like to tell you a story about an incredible student of mine, Cristina. She arrived in London without knowing a single word in English. Well, she could say ‘hello’ or ‘bye’. However, it was not enough to communicate in English. I remember meeting her in a cafe for the first time. Our conversation was mostly based on body language as she found it difficult to form a single sentence or a question. She would constantly nod and only answer ‘yes, yes, yes…’ to anything I was saying. Clearly, she needed to improve her English as quickly as possible. Once, she grabbed her dictionary, looked up a word and said ‘You teach me English, ok?’ ‘With a pleasure’ I answered. This is how our daily English sessions started. Cristina is one of the most driven students I have ever taught. She would work 10 hours a day, from Monday to Friday and when most people watch their favourite Netflix series after work, she would still have her 2-hour online lesson with me. Was she tired? Oh yes! Who wouldn't be tired at 8 p.m.? Was she determined? Like anyone else. Did she want to give up? Too many times. But, she did not! She got a job in London! But, she is determined to get one even better this year. She knows English will help her achieve her goals. For that reason, she opens up her laptop for a couple of hours every week to practise her pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. I focus on her weaknesses and we work together on improving them. Now, the most important part. A few days ago, Cristina told me ‘Gosia! Can you believe that we are having a conversation in English, and discuss things? I couldn't say a word when I met you.’ That was the most rewarding thing I could hear. Cristina’s story is to show you that there are no shortcuts when it comes to language learning. It’s all about hard work, determination, and practice. Proud teacher, Gosia
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Gosia JendrusikEnglish teacher, coffee lover and lesson planner. Archives |
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