Experience Summary
I graduated from Doane College in Crete, NE with majors in Spanish and Sociology in 2004. I studied abroad in Seville, Spain at the University during the fall semester of 2003. I also studied abroad in Cuernavaca, Mexico for one month at the Cetlalic language institute. I received a Spanish-English Interpretation and Translation certification from the University of NE-Kearney in 2005. I started tutoring Spanish when I was in high school (I was also an assistant to the Spanish teacher, helping to grade papers & help out in her classes). While studying at Doane College, I was an assistant to the Spanish professor. I helped with classes, graded papers, & tutored other college students. I maintained A's in all of my Spanish classes. I am the true definition of a "language nerd". I also speak and read Brazilian Portuguese fairly well. I currently work as a Spanish-English translator for a state government agency. I have been a Spanish translator since 2004. As my side business, I give private Spanish lessons & tutor Spanish.
Teaching Style
I like tutoring because I like to help people understand the subject (I understand that not everyone can easily grasp the concept of learning a foreign language). I make learning easy and fun. I break down the hard concepts and apply it to daily life. My students always like my "word association examples" to help them remember things! I try to incorporate humor into the lessons. I adapt to every individual & will teach in the style that best suits each student. I have tutored all levels (beginner to advanced) and all ages (from 5-65!). I have experience working with a variety of students....a young child wanting immersion, an elderly ex-NFL hall of fame football player wanting to be able to communicate with his ranch workers, a high school student with Asperberger's and dyslexia, a wounded military soldier, amongst many others. I love the challenges of working with people with special needs!
My Hobbies
Playing piano, learning languages, traveling, going to concerts, baking/cooking, dancing salsa, zumba, swimming, exercise in general, krav maga self defense, reading, networking, cultural activities. I also am an affiliate/brand partner with an awesome company called Vemma (offering natural energy drinks that are actually healthy for you instead of Red Bull, Monster, etc. and other health products approved by Dr. Oz.) I love this company not only for the health aspect, but also because we are like family and have Vemma parties with food and free samples. My Vemma website is: vemmandrea81@vemma.com
Other Comments
My students have told me that I make them feel very comfortable. I have a very caring personality. I get along with any type of person!