Want to practice your English conversational skills in a fun, friendly and tailored way? Allow me to help you build new vocabulary and phrases, ask better questions, and give you confidence!

Find out more about Tanya

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

  I speak English fluently as I am from the United States, born and raised. I took Spanish and French while I was in elementary school, but it wasn't until I moved abroad and became an international teacher that I became fascinated with languages. English truly is the international language, you see it everywhere when you travel-airports, bus stations, restaurantes- speaking English has helped me to connect more globally as a human being on this Earth because it is a common language that all cultures can connect with.

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

  Anyone who is brave enough to put their words on display in creative expression is my hero. I have an incredible amount of respect for writers, public speakers, people who use sign language and really anyone who is using their communication skills to speak out and be heard.

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

  A concept that I really love about teaching others about the English language, is that there are so many beautiful and unique ways in how you can express yourself. There are multiple ways to speak, write or indicate a thought in English. It can be poetic, simple, detailed, intentional and experimental. You can create your own author style and voice.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking English allows me access to the world and also allows me to help others in being able to express themselves in this language.

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

  THe English language can be very tricky at times. We have rules and lots of exceptions to those rules. This is why I believe providing a context and real life connection to self, someone else, or their environment, really helps instill a deeper understanding and therefore retention of the new word or phrase. This gives students a chance to form memories with new words or phrases and then start to use these words in their everyday life.

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

  I especially remember being in preschool and creating an area in my room that looked like a school. I set my animals and dolls up and handed-out worksheets. I had my mothers typewriter near me and would pretend to be grading papers and taking care of other assigned tasks. Starting at a young age, it was very important to me to achieve high grades and constantly be working towards my goals. My father and mother instilled a healthy work ethic when it came to learning and I truly believe it has been what shaped and formed me into the educator of language arts that I am today.

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

  While traveling I always circle back to a feeling of gratitude that I was born and raised in an English speaking atmosphere. Knowing this language has opened up doors around the world for me, because there is always an opportunity to teach English in every country you travel to. I have been teaching at internationally accredited schools for over a decade now. Each of these schools which are placed around the world, have curriculums that are delivered in English. This language gives you connections to the marketplace, entertainment, and gives you foundational knowledge that you can take with you anywhere.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  I am a dedicated teacher and therefore extremely loyal and thorough when it comes to helping others understand the English language and get past their learning curves. From my experience working with different cultures, it is vital to get to know your students' background and specific learning needs. I take time out of class to research and plan my lessons so the time that is spent is valuable and useful to apply right away!