The joys of teaching ESL

I am a writer who also teaches English as a Second Language. Teaching initially was a way for me to make some much needed extra money. However, I quickly learned that teaching is a rewarding way to make a difference in someone's life.

I never realized the ability to speak English is all one needed to improve their life. I've had the pleasure of teaching students from many countries. My students have come from Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Mexico, Haiti, France, Italy, Germany, the Ukraine, Israel, Morocco, Angola, Cape Verde, Liberia, Guinea Bissau, China, Russia, and Vietnam.

What kinds of differences do you make? My proudest moment was helping a Brazilian lady improve her English to help her pass her U.S. Citizenship exam. Her American husband had died the previous year. She promised her husband that she would become a U.S. citizen. She did and I was privileged to play a role in that achievement.

Most differences are not as dramatic as the previous one. Helping a student to fill out a job application is a common request. The job may be in a fast food restaurant or at the local mall. This may seem small but it is immense to someone trying to make a new life in our country.

Another way to make a difference is to help students prepare for job interviews. Job interviewing is cultural. Unlike the United States, in some countries asking a person's religion, marital status, or political affiliation is permissible. Teaching our customs resolves many unwanted occurrences. How much are you worth? One of my most popular classes is teaching the concept of a minimum wage. I stress concept because some of my students come from countries where there is no minimum wage. Employers pay whatever they chose to pay.

Seeing the excited faces of students who tell me they dreamed in English for the first time is heartwarming. Their look of appreciation when they thank you for caring is priceless. You can make a difference in your community teaching english as a second language. Many churches and other houses of worship offer ESL classes. Adult education classes also teach this subject. Make a difference teaching english as a second life. You'll make a difference in the lives of your students as they enrich yours.