English (ESL) with Jahara J.

Just some information on me and my language background: I am a graduate from the University of Arizona, majoring in East Asian Studies. That major included a focus on the Japanese language and culture, as well as a Minor in Mandarin Chinese. I have been studying the Japanese Language for 9 years now, and 4 of the years include a formal university-level education, 2 of them being in Japan. I lived and studied in Saitama, Japan for 6 months, graduating from the Japanese Studies Program at Tokyo International University in the Fall of 2012. I later worked as an ESL (English as a second language) Teacher in both Elementary and Junior High Schools; 5th-9th grade; in Japan. While I was there, I taught ESL classes as well as cultural classes. I also selected and coached 4 students in a city-wide English speech contest where 2 of my students placed 1st and 2nd in their divisions. My career path is focused on teaching English and Japanese as second languages, as well as encouraging studying abroad during higher education. I have also completed a minor in Mandarin Chinese, which means I have 2 formal years of study. I also speak basic level Korean and Spanish. I believe that language is a strong, lucrative tool in today's society. Not only does it improve one's credentials in the competitive job market; highlighting you over others; but it also allows one to expand his/her mind by making the cultures of other nations accessible. It is a social tool that enables a person to be able to work well with others in an array of environments, including multicultural. On top of it all, learning a language is fun. I truly truly love it, and I believe that anyone who sets their mind to it, with the proper tools and resources, can do it. Whether that just be some survival phrases for your upcoming vacation (which Ive done) or you're looking to master the language. That is what I am here for. I want to be a resource for students of ALL ages, and assist and support them in their language journey. From a teaching standpoint I believe that lessons should be interactive and fun I worked with incoming college freshman as a mentor, working with my colleagues to organize and execute fun and educational events that would encourage the students to get excited about learning. I actively created games and fun interactive activities and worksheets for my younger students in Japan. The best learning is the kind you do without realizing it.