And, aside from the English tutoring, it has been an incredible experience to be a kind, caring person in my student's life. I think about how much that matters to a person trying to make it in a world full of obstacles — the trauma their families has endured, the economic stressors of Israeli life in their circumstance while they face systemic racism, graduate from the overcrowded schools in their communities, and deal with the additional stress caused by the pandemic. WHO WROTE THIS??
With two highly committed students, my tutoring experience is continuously rewarding and interesting. Our online meetings are filled with questions and insights, grammar and shared laughter too! Through our conversations, my students have helped me understand their work in technology. Beyond their work, we have discussed their favorite places in Israel and the world. We’ve discussed and compared current events in Israel and the United States. Together we have read English articles about their interests in science, health and sports. And of course, we have discussed our Shabbat and holiday traditions and our shared love of schnitzel! Tutoring for English B’Yachad may have grown out of the disastrous pandemic, but it has brought productive and enjoyable visits with my delightful students. I’m grateful for this experience every week. ---Terry M., Nashville, TN
At the beginning of my and Jan’s meetings, I was very embarrassed to speak English, I did not feel comfortable. In terms of my English level, I was unable to conduct a conversation in English, but from session to session my English improved greatly. Today I feel more comfortable speaking English, my vocabulary is growing and it is all thanks to Jan. Our sessions helped me come to terms with the experience I had as a student at school, where my teacher influenced my lack of success in English. The sharing made me feel more comfortable with that situation, and of course I started seeing English in a more positive and enjoyable way. We studied grammar, Jan helped me write a resume, we simulated job interviews in English, I learned about her family and her life. Beyond learning English, Jan mentors me, advises me, listens to my needs, and supports me. I am happy to have the privilege of taking part in this amazing project that has promoted me on both a personal and a professional level. I also got to know a strong, amazing and inspiring woman. From this amazing project I take with me the ability to overcome my barrier of English, an experience of learning English in a pleasant and fun way, and an amazing mentor. ---Revital, Israel (EBY student)
At the beginning of my and Jan’s meetings, I was very embarrassed to speak English, I did not feel comfortable. In terms of my English level, I was unable to conduct a conversation in English, but from session to session my English improved greatly. Today I feel more comfortable speaking English, my vocabulary is growing and it is all thanks to Jan. Our sessions helped me come to terms with the experience I had as a student at school, where my teacher influenced my lack of success in English. The sharing made me feel more comfortable with that situation, and of course I started seeing English in a more positive and enjoyable way. We studied grammar, Jan helped me write a resume, we simulated job interviews in English, I learned about her family and her life. Beyond learning English, Jan mentors me, advises me, listens to my needs, and supports me. I am happy to have the privilege of taking part in this amazing project that has promoted me on both a personal and a professional level. I also got to know a strong, amazing and inspiring woman. From this amazing project I take with me the ability to overcome my barrier of English, an experience of learning English in a pleasant and fun way, and an amazing mentor. ---Revital, Israel (EBY student)