Intensive English Language Program

Since I finished my master's in 2010, I've been working as a teacher in the Intensive English Language Program at Cleveland State University. I have really enjoyed my job. There have been many challenges - mostly the attitude of entitlement that some students have - but it has been so fulfilling to get to know wonderful people from all over the world, and to help them reach their goal of learning English well enough to study in an American university. I have taken the summer off, and I will also be staying home with our son in the Fall. I think I will start teaching 1 class 2 days a week when the spring semester starts. It is great to be able to do a job that can be so part time. 

Many of my co-workers have become close friends and a great support to me. Top left: Dawn, Dave, Sean, Ilya, Eva, me, Michele (my boss, wearing red), Joe and Alevtyna. Bottom left: Pat, Halina, Karen, Linda, Maggie, June and Miran. Below are some of my most dedicated, bright students (and they happen to be some of my favorites :)

Bushra, from Saudi Arabia

Hassan and Yasmeen, and their daughter, Hawra, from Saudi Arabia

Amlak, from Saudi Arabia

Adriana, from Venezuela,  was a practicum student who did the same master's program that I did. And her mom, Graciela is a student in the IELP.

Linda was my mentor when I started, and has become a great friend to me. This was her last semester before retirement, and I am glad we got to share it together.