Penn State Italian Grad & Incoming Boston College Teaching Fellow

Peter D.

Benvenuti! My name is Peter, and I am an enthusiastic Italian language instructor dedicated to making learning engaging, practical, and tailored to your goals. I graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Italian Studies and Business Management, and I am an incoming Graduate Teaching Fellow at Boston College, where I will teach university-level Elementary Italian. Over the past year, I have worked as a private tutor for adult learners, guest-taught university lessons at Penn State, and volunteered at a summer camp in Milan. This blend of academic training and hands-on teaching allows me to understand exactly what it takes to help students succeed, whether preparing for a college course or a dream vacation.

My approach leaves behind dry grammar drills and dense lectures. Instead, I focus on building conversational confidence from day one using custom-built games, high-yield interactive activities, and discussions centered around practical topics. I believe in starting with the most important conversational building blocks first so you see immediate progress. Beyond language mechanics, my lessons offer deep cultural immersion. Having lived with host families in both Todi and Milan, I love incorporating real-world cultural context. For travelers, I weave in comprehensive trip preparation, from essential dining etiquette and navigating regional dialects to packing strategies and sharing hidden gem locations while avoiding tourist traps.

Whether you are a high school or college student looking to master foundational concepts before the academic year begins, or an adult learner picking up Italian as a rewarding new hobby, I am committed to creating a supportive, confidence-building environment. I customize every lesson plan to track your individual progress and match your unique pace. I look forward to working together and helping you achieve true fluency and confidence in Italian!