Nine months ago, I started helping with English classes at GADSA. It has been an overwhelmingly positive experience. From the beginning the teachers were so welcoming and supportive, I was more than happy to be part of their team. This placement made me realise the invaluable role of teachers, not just as instructors but also as guides and mentors for their students.
But what made this experience truly special was the students. At first, they were shy to speak English with me. But over time that shyness began to fade away and they became more comfortable and excited about speaking English. It was so touching to see them start conversations with me and try to use their new language skills. We had fun together, always laughed, and they learned a lot.
I believe having foreign language assistants is really beneficial for students. Having a native perspective on a language will always teach more that a textbook can. It’s not just about learning new words. It’s about understanding different cultures and ways of life. When they talk to someone who really knows the language, they can learn about the world in a new way.
Language assistants also make learning fun. The students feel safe to make mistakes and ask questions. They can practice speaking without feeling stressed. They can hear different accents and learn everyday phrases.
My time at GADSA was not just about teaching English. I also learned a lot from the students and the other teachers. It felt like a big family. I am thankful for this amazing experience. I can’t wait to come back and visit to see how the students have continued learning and growing in the future. I know they will always remember the fun times we had learning English together.
