Patient and easy-going tutor (Master's degree in French) with 15 years of experience offers online French classes

Find out more about Helen

• 1) Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I speak French because I was fortunate to be accepted into a French school at the age of 10. I grew up in Ukraine, but I completed my education in a bilingual school, graduating with both Ukrainian and French diplomas. Along the way, I had an inspiring teacher who sparked my passion for the language and encouraged me to pursue it seriously.

• 2) Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  There are many characters who are emblematic representatives of French culture, but for me, one of the most important is Victor Hugo. As someone who is deeply fond of literature and art, I admire his ability to capture the essence of French society and human nature through his works.

• 3) Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  I’ve always loved the phrase ‘joie de vivre’ — the joy of living. It’s more than just words; it represents a whole mindset that I find truly inspiring. I also really appreciate the French tradition of savoring meals together — sitting for hours, talking, and enjoying food. It’s such a beautiful way to connect with others.

• 4) Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking French matters to me because it opens the door to a rich culture of art, literature, and history that I deeply love. It allows me to connect with people from different backgrounds and helps me grow both personally and professionally. French has become a part of my identity, and sharing it with others is truly rewarding.

• 5) What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  One of the main difficulties in learning French is mastering the pronunciation and the gender system, which can be tricky for learners because it affects articles, adjectives, and verb agreements. Another challenge is the many verb tenses and moods that French uses. What really helps the learning process is consistent practice, especially speaking and listening, combined with exposure to real-life contexts like conversations, movies, and music. Having a good teacher or language partner to guide you and provide feedback also makes a big difference.

• 6) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  hen I was at school, we often had French visitors—teachers, journalists, volunteers, even politicians and diplomats. They would visit, and we’d get the chance to interact with them, ask questions, and sometimes work on projects together. One day, I was showing a French journalist around, speaking French with him. He went to the restroom for a few minutes, and during that time, two new teachers overheard me speaking French and actually thought I was French! While I was waiting alone, I suddenly heard them saying, ‘Go say hello to this French girl.’ They came over trying to communicate with gestures and smiles. When I replied to them in Russian, they looked a bit disappointed—but it was a funny and memorable moment that showed me how language can create surprising impressions.

• 7) How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Traveling is a very practical and immersive way to learn a language! Every time I made a mistake while in France, it stuck with me—I’d remember it clearly and try never to repeat it. Being surrounded by the language, hearing it in everyday conversations, reading signs, and using it constantly makes the learning process real and alive. Beyond grammar and vocabulary, travel helped me understand cultural nuances, expressions, and the rhythm of natural speech. It also gave me the confidence to speak with native speakers and adapt quickly, which classroom learning alone can’t fully provide.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What makes me a Superprof in language is not only my native proficiency and 16 years of teaching experience but also my personal journey as a language learner. Having studied several languages myself, I truly understand the challenges and frustrations students face. This empathy allows me to tailor lessons to each individual’s needs and learning style. I focus on practical communication, cultural context, and building confidence so students can use the language naturally. My passion for teaching combined with proven methods helps students stay motivated and achieve their goals efficiently.