Hello. My name is Jamey.
I received my degree in Spanish while living in Costa Rica. I moved to South America and lived there two years. After returning to the U.S., I have used my Spanish in seven different jobs - medical translation, retirement/investment consultant, human resource and IT departments in two different major Atlanta-based corporations, missionary/pastor, teacher and tutor. Because I work in the public school system, I am familiar with student needs. I am not a "hard-nosed," "militaristic" person. I have feelings and I know my students have feelings as well. I try to be sensitive to their needs as we conduct the tutoring session. During a recent, last-minute session, which took place the night before a major test, my student appeared exhausted and stressed-out. After a couple of questions and me acknowledging her difficulties, we were able to carry on. One note, this student's parent arranged the session and let her know about it on the way to our meeting place. God bless her. She made a high A on the test! I commended her for hanging in there even though she didn't feel like it. So, I think this gives you a picture on how I operate.
Let me add another thought. I learned Spanish in my 30s. Before going to language school, I was given a language aptitude test to determine whether or not I would be able to learn another language. Out of 100% I got a 7%. Yes, a 7%. A friend of mine took the same test and got a 97%. We both went to school at the same time, stayed the same amount of time and studied under some of the main students. Graduates earn one of four different levels of proficiency: Superior, Advanced, Intermediate, Basic. My friend graduated in the "Intermediate" level and I in the "Advanced" level. I struggled for every grade I received. What was the major difference between us? FEAR! She was afraid to make mistakes and, therefore, was hindered. I, however, have no fear in speaking.
So, I ask you, "¿Quieres aprender el español?" Do you want to learn Spanish?
¡Vámanos! Let's go!
P.S. My present tutee has brought her grade up from a low C to a high A.
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