Experienced French Instructor with an Emphasis on Conversation

Emma S.

I am currently pursuing a dual MA at the University of Kentucky in French & Francophone Studies and Diplomacy & International Commerce. While completing the dual program, I am employed as a graduate instructor for beginning French course at the undergraduate level. I graduated cum laude from Wofford College, where I studied French and Government, with a concentration in political theory. I have a wide array of research interests and areas, including Francophone Africa, French History, French Literature, French Culture, and Francophone Canada. I have several years of freelance tutoring under my belt, including experience with tutoring students with learning disabilities. I love working with students and helping them to develop confidence with language over time. Language can be intimidating, but I remind students that mistakes happen and can be remedied. What is most important is facing challenges and working around them.

I focus much of my teaching on developing conversational skills and cultural knowledge to be able to connect with a native culture and native speakers. Language is about making connections and unlocking a new perspective of the world. Thus, I really emphasize the importance of developing intercultural communication skills and colloquial and formal grammar and vocabulary. I like to make learning interactive, creating many games and activities to engage students in conversation.

If you are interested in developing French cultural skills, learning French for the first time, brushing up for travel, or refining grammar and pronunciation, please contact me to schedule a session. I am happy to accommodate any schedule.