Johara Romero Wahlen

Spanish teacher

What do you like the most about teaching Spanish?

Sharing about my culture around the world and getting to see it through a foreigner's eyes.

When did you start teaching Spanish?

More than 3 years ago.

In your experience, what are the most common reasons for wanting to learn Spanish?

Coming to study or work abroad, being able to communicate better with other at work or as a hobbie.

How difficult is it to learn Spanish, compared to other languages?

It depends a little bit on the language that you are coming of and also if you already have learned another language. Overall, if you come from English, Italian on French it would not be very difficult to start having conversations. Just find a good teacher that makes thing easy.

How is Spanish from Spain different from that of other countries?

Spanish is a language spoken in lots of countries, and on each one of them is different. Even inside of Spain we have different accents or words for some things depending on the region you learn it.

What aspects of Spanish culture are your students usually interested in?

Food is a big aspect in Spanish cultre. We have a mediterranean diet, very balanced and with variety, and our eating schedules are quite different from other european countries. A big part of the social life in Spain revolves around our food culture, students love to learn about that.

What's the hardest part of teaching Spanish?

Teaching the conjugations of the verbs. Is the least fun thing, even for the natives. But I try to make it as enjoyable as possible!

What makes a good Spanish student?

You have to be open-minded, and be open to have fun and talk. Spanish language have some sounds that don't exist in other languages, so just leave outside the shame and be prepared for trying and practicing!

What's the hardest part of learning Spanish?

The conjugation of the verbs might be one of the hardest parts, speacially if you are used to English tenses that are more much simple.

What is your advice for students who are struggling?

Don't give up. Remember languages are for communicating, so don't be overfixed with all the rules. Focus at first on parts of the language that are easier for you to learn, and then you can start to fill in the blanks you have. That will give you a bigger sense of achievement and more motivation. And if you miss somenthing or fail a few words, don't worry! We all make mistakes, even in our native language.

Finding a tutor that suits you and have a similar vibe to you it is important. So if you struggle, look for a teacher that makes learning fun.