"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela


Education

  • Education Bachelor's Degree
    I graduated with distinction from the University of Ottawa, a top Canadian University, with an Honors Bachelor's Degree with Specialization in Second Language Teaching. I also achieved a minor in English literature. This four-year degree includes instruction in teaching English reading, writing, speaking and listening. It also includes study of different ESL/EFL teaching theories, as well as a focus on grammar, pronunciation and linguistics. It provides valuable in-class experience, observed lessons and a strong emphasis on curriculum design. This degree also provides a unique focus on bilingualism and multiculturalism in the classroom.
  • TESOL Certification
    This intensive teacher training course provides a thorough overview of ESL teaching theories and practices. It also includes a grammar review section and a unique specialization program.
  • High School Diploma
    I graduated with honors from high school. During this time, I completed co-operative education as an English teacher's assistant at a local bilingual elementary school where I helped teach lessons and I tutored individual students in English grammar.

Teaching and Professional Experience

Primary Homeroom Teacher (August 2016 - August 2020)
Most recently, I was employed as a primary homeroom teacher at Knowledge Gate International School in Muscat, Oman. I taught the British National Curriculum, followed by the Cambridge International Curriculum to third grade homeroom students, previously teaching second grade. My curricula consisted of English, math, science, social studies, geography and literature instruction. I was responsible for teaching differentiated and diverse lessons for my international students, as well as provide an inclusive and mindful environment in my classes. I have also been responsible for designing and implementing assessment, as well as work in a collaborative and student-focused school community. I also maintained in constant contact with the parents and guardians of my students, in order to provide a well-rounded education that extended beyond the classroom. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, I was responsible for maintaining my classes online, becoming available live for the students to continue their lessons as the year concluded. 


Fourth Grade Homeroom Teacher  (August 2015 - August 2016)
I previously taught as the fourth grade teacher (ages nine to ten) at American Pacific University in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I was responsible for designing and implementing original curricula and testing material for all subjects, based on the California Common Core State Standards. My curricula included instruction in English, math, science, social studies, history, geography and literature. I provided detailed, varied lessons for my students to be able to succeed in a student-centered learning environment. I developed and created individual materials and tests specifically catered to the goals of each subject.

Second Grade Teacher (August 2014 - August 2015)
I previously taught second grade (ages seven to eight) as an English homeroom teacher at Asia Pacific College Dong Nai in Bien Hoa, Vietnam. This position required extensive daily curriculum planning in English, math and science subjects, based on both British and American curricula. This school administers a student-focused approach to learning based on a diverse international program, which includes the usage of the latest technology, songs and games, group projects and thematic study. I was responsible for designing and administering skill-focused tests, undergoing frequent peer and administrative teaching evaluations and providing a strong support network between myself and parents, in order to ensure a well-rounded education for my students.

Kindergarten Teacher (August 2014 - August 2015)
I was also previously employed as a kindergarten (ages three to four) English teacher at Asia Pacific College Dong Nai in Bien Hoa, Vietnam. In this position, I was responsible for planning an engaging curriculum for early years students that inspires the confidence and social communication skills necessary for language development. These classes offer a well-rounded approach to learning through visual stimulation, spatial awareness and kinesthetic/tactile activities. 

English Language Instructor (August 2012 - August 2014)
I previously worked as a full-time language teacher at American Language Center in Tainan, Taiwan for several years. This position involves teaching a variety of classes each day, with students ranging from ages seven to fourteen. These classes have given me the opportunity to implement many different teaching styles and methodologies, in order to effectively teach each different class. One of the school's fundamental aims is to introduce English awareness to students at an early age and to encourage its use outside the classroom, as well as within. This school particularly emphasizes early childhood reading and literacy skills. I was responsible for planning and implementing comprehensive curriculum-based lessons to each class that are meant to encourage English use inside and outside the classroom in interesting and varied ways. I have also been responsible for designing and administering different tests, as well as offering training, support and advice to new coworkers.

Preschool Teacher (August 2010 - August 2012)
I was previously employed at a popular English preschool in Tainan, Taiwan and taught students from the ages of two to seven. I was responsible for teaching kindergarten students of different ages every day. I organized daily lesson plans, which included instruction in English reading and writing, as well as phonics and grammar skills. I was responsible for oral and written testing. My lessons employed the use of multiple intellegences, in order to provide a well-rounded English education. This position required a high level of patience and it also required me to adjust and adapt quickly to different teaching contexts. It also required a high level of enthusiasm in order to keep young children motivated and excited about learning. This job also provided a great deal of interaction and cooperation with my students' parents, with whom I built a great rapport.

Cram School Teacher (2012 - 2014)
During my time in Taiwan, I taught several after-school English classes, primarily for elementary school-aged children. These classes concentrated on developing English phonics and speaking skills, with a secondary focus on grammar, vocabulary and literature. I also implemented listening activities in my lessons, as well as personalized reading assessment. These classes also require a great deal of creativity in order to create a fun and interesting learning environment for students at this age level.

ESL/EFL Tutor (2009 - Present)
For many years, I have worked as an independent English tutor for individual students of varying ages. This has provided me with valuable teaching experience. I organize daily lessons and meet with students to tutor them on their specific language needs, using various teaching methods. These lessons focus on English grammar and conversational skills, and I often include elements of pronunciation, vocabulary and English-speaking culture. This requires patience, flexibility and general English knowledge, as well as a level of enthusiasm about the subject matter of the lessons.

Other Relevant Professional Experience

Childcare Assistant
Over the span of two years, I provided part-time help to a small childcare business. I was responsible for supervising children between the ages of 2 to 10. My duties included arranging daily outings, preparing meals for the children and organizing activities to entertain and motivate them. I was able to gain valuable experience at this job while learning to interact with children, and I found that I have a passion for effectively mentoring others.

Office Receptionist
As a receptionist for a real estate company, I was responsible for maintaining an organized and professional office environment. My duties included answering phones, forwarding computer messages, filing real estate forms and dealing with customer service. This job helped me develop my computer skills, my interpersonal skills and it also provided an opportunity for me to display my positive attitude, patience and motivation.

Server/Cook
While working at a small restaurant, I was responsible for both preparing meals for customers and serving them. I maintained a safe and hygienic work environment while effectively operating the business in a team environment. I was responsible for training, supervising and managing the other employees. During this time, I learned the benefits of working in a team environment, building my multi-tasking skills and communication skills and being a motivated and organized leader.

Customer Service Representative
As a sales associate in a busy clothing store, my duties included assisting customers in their shopping, keeping the store sorted and organized and handling the cash register. I was also responsible for balancing funds and opening and closing the store. While at this position, I developed my interpersonal skills while working in a high-stress environment. This required listening skills, patience and enthusiasm while dealing with a variety of customers and attending to their needs.

Concession Attendant
I worked as a concession attendant at a movie theatre where I was responsible for managing the theatre, dealing with customers, handling cash transactions and serving refreshments during show times. This job required the ability to work in a high-stress situation while constantly maintaining a positive attitude. I learned how to be productive independently and I also was able to demonstrate my punctuality and professionalism.

Languages

  • Beginner Mandarin Chinese
  • Beginner French
  • Beginner Spanish
  • Beginner Arabic