Meet Intrepid English Student, Tania! In this video episode of the Intrepid English Podcast, Lorraine chats to one of our wonderful Intrepid students, Tania, all about her journey learning English.
🎥Watch the video on our YouTube channel.
Tania describes her motivations for learning English, how consist practice of English has helped her to grow in her career, and how she juggles the various aspects of her life; motherhood, work, studying, and more!
*Note: Apologies for the video quality at the start of the podcast. It improves later on!*
Summary
Tania Palma, a line producer based in Madrid, shared her journey of learning English quickly to meet her new job’s demands. She started with minimal English skills and faced challenges, including a low proficiency level and balancing motherhood. Tania emphasized the importance of consistency, practicing daily for 30 minutes, and adapting lessons to her schedule. She also highlighted the role of flexibility and support from her teachers. Despite initial embarrassment, Tania’s progress improved over time, leading to increased confidence and better job performance. She also mentioned taking an unexpected English test at her children’s school, which she passed, validating her progress.
Outline
Introduction and Background of Tania Palma
- Lorraine Venables introduces Tania Palma, a student at Intrepid English, highlighting her positive impact and learning journey.
- Tania shares her background, starting as a graphic designer and transitioning to the animation sector, requiring English proficiency for her new role.
- Tania explains the urgency of learning English quickly to manage international meetings and teams.
- Lorraine recalls how Tania’s friend Paloma recommended her to Lorraine for English lessons.
Challenges and Initial Steps in Learning English
- Lorraine asks Tania about her initial challenges and goals for learning English.
- Tania describes her low English proficiency and the embarrassment she felt in meetings.
- Lorraine emphasizes the importance of understanding students’ goals, fears, and challenges to tailor lessons effectively.
- Tania shares her determination to seize the job opportunity and the support she received from Lorraine.
Consistency and Progress in Language Learning
- Tania discusses the importance of consistency in her daily English practice, even with limited time.
- She highlights the role of attention and input in language learning, using her baby’s sleep schedule to her advantage.
- Tania mentions the flexibility of her lessons, allowing her to adapt to her busy life and new role.
- Lorraine appreciates the flexibility and support provided by the teachers at Intrepid English.
Flexibility and Support from Teachers
- Tania appreciates the flexibility and support from her teachers, who adapt lessons to her needs and interests.
- Lorraine shares her joy in learning about different fields and sectors through her students’ projects.
- Tania enjoys the real-life conversations and the opportunity to learn from her teachers’ expertise.
- The conversation touches on the importance of enjoying the learning journey and the benefits of having supportive teachers.
Balancing Motherhood and Language Learning
- Lorraine and Tania discuss the parallel journey of Tania’s children learning English and her own language learning.
- Tania shares her experience of taking an English test at her children’s school, despite not preparing for it.
- Lorraine emphasizes the importance of recognizing progress and the value of structured tests for measuring improvement.
- Tania reflects on the importance of self-recognition and the impact of her mother’s influence on her confidence.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Challenges
- Tania talks about the imposter syndrome and the importance of recognizing her efforts and progress.
- Lorraine encourages Tania to be kind to herself and recognize that progress is not always linear.
- Tania shares her experience of overcoming her fear of public speaking in English, thanks to her teacher’s support.
- Lorraine highlights the role of teachers like Natalia, who bring additional skills and knowledge to enhance the learning experience.
The Role of Teachers and the Importance of Different Perspectives
- Tania appreciates the diverse perspectives and experiences brought by different teachers at Intrepid English.
- Lorraine discusses the multifaceted nature of teachers, who can offer insights from various fields and life experiences.
- Tania enjoys the different conversations and aspects covered in her lessons, enriching her learning experience.
- Lorraine concludes the conversation by expressing her admiration for Tania’s progress and dedication.