Learn ASL with a Certified Tutor: Interactive and Engaging Sign Language Lessons for All Ages

Find out more about Nina

• 1) Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I speak English fluently because it has always been an essential part of my life, both personally and professionally. While I grew up speaking English as my second language, I truly mastered it through years of immersion-first in my education, then in my career as a licensed special education teacher in California. English is the primary language spoken in my home, which has further deepened my fluency and comfort with the language. More than just something I teach, it's the language I think, communicate, and connect with daily.

• 2) Can you name a living, historical, or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  I would say Maya Angelou. Her poetry and storytelling don't just showcase the beauty of the English language-they embody resilience, empowerment, and the power of words to inspire change. Her famous quote, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better," deeply resonates with me as an educator. Language is more than a tool for communication; it is a bridge to understanding, growth, and impact.

• 3) Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition, or behavior in the language that you particularly like?

  I love the phrase "You got this." It's simple yet carries so much encouragement and support. It reflects the warmth and positivity in American culture-how people uplift each other, whether in schools, workplaces, or daily life. As a special education teacher, I often use this phrase with my students to remind them that they are capable, strong, and never alone in their learning journey.

• 4) Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking English matters to me because it has been my bridge to opportunity and connection. It has allowed me to teach in the U.S., reach and inspire students from diverse backgrounds, and contribute meaningfully to education. As a special education teacher, language plays an even more critical role in my work. Communication is at the heart of supporting students with unique learning needs, whether it's through spoken words, written text, or alternative communication methods. Beyond my career, English is also the heart of my home-it's how my family communicates and expresses love, thoughts, and ideas. Mastering the language has given me not just a career but a way to shape and influence lives.

• 5) What is the main difficulty in learning this language, and what can help the process of learning?

  English can be challenging because of its irregular spelling, pronunciation, and grammar rules. Words that look similar can sound completely different (read vs. read), and the same word can have multiple meanings based on context. For my special education students, language learning can be even more complex, requiring individualized instruction, visual supports, and multimodal teaching strategies. The best way to overcome these challenges is through consistent immersion, structured practice, and building confidence-not just studying from books but engaging with the language daily through conversation, reading, and real-life experiences.

• 6) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  When I first started teaching in California, I had a student with a learning disability who struggled with English. She was hesitant to speak, afraid of making mistakes, and often second-guessed herself. I saw a reflection of my own early experiences learning English and knew how important encouragement was. I made it my goal to create a safe and supportive space for her, using strategies like visual aids, sentence starters, and personalized learning tools. One day, she finally raised her hand in class and spoke with confidence. The pride in her eyes was unforgettable. That moment reinforced why I love teaching-it's not just about mastering a language but about empowering students to use it fearlessly, no matter their learning differences.

• 7) How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Living and teaching in California for five years was more than just a job-it was a transformative learning experience. Every interaction with students, every staff meeting, and every cultural exchange helped me refine my English in ways no textbook ever could. Exposure to different dialects, slang, and expressions broadened my understanding that English is not just a single language-it's a dynamic, evolving collection of voices and identities. Additionally, working in special education deepened my understanding of how language can be adapted to support diverse learning needs, from assistive technology to sign language communication.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof in language?

  I am a Superprof in English and Special Education because I don't just teach the language-I individualize it. As a licensed special education teacher in California, I have extensive experience designing lessons that meet the unique needs of each learner. Whether it's supporting students with learning disabilities, autism, or speech delays, I use research-based strategies to help them build confidence, express themselves, and achieve their goals. Having mastered English myself, I understand what it takes to gain fluency, overcome challenges, and embrace language as a tool for success. My goal is not just to help students learn English, but to help them find their voice, advocate for themselves, and unlock new opportunities through language.