Gina Santi - Spanish
About
I've been told that my classes are fun! I incorporate my outgoing personality with my extensive knowledge and experience in teaching Spanish.
I enjoy seeing the face of my students when they finally understand a tricky grammar concept, or when they are exposed to an aspect of the culture that interests them. I also love to see how my students flourish in the "real world" thanks to their Spanish skills. To this day, I keep in touch with previous students who now hold important positions in various fields.
Likewise, my students keep me up to date with what's going on. When we are discussing cultural aspects such as fashion, food, or music, my students bring to the table information that otherwise I would not have access to, for example popular artists, fashion trends, new words, and social media practices.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Before our first session, I ask my sudents to prepare a specific question (grammar, vocabulary, linguistics, culture) to discuss. Examples of questions might be: what is the difference between "por" and "para? What is the difference between "ser" and "estar"? What is the subjunctive? Do they speak the same Spanish in Mexico and Spain? What is a Spanish omelette? Why is Brazil the only non-Spanish speaking country in Latin America? I will also ask the name of the textbook they are using, if any.
During our first session we will discuss this question, and I also like to get acquainted with my students, get a feel for their previous exposure to the Spanish language, and why do they need a tutor: is it an upcoming exam? an upcoming trip? just for fun? Depending on their answers my sessions will be designed to maximize their outcome in the required competencies.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a native speaker of Spanish, born and raised in Venezuela. I hold a Teaching Certificate from the State of Arizona to teach Spanish K-12. I have been teaching Spanish at the university level in Arizona for 25+ years until present.
I am also an accomplished photographer and that's why you will see my photography web page in my profile. I don't consider my career as an educator a business.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My fees are US$35.00 per hour. This includes the lesson itself, links to materials that will be used to review, and homework for the next session.
How did you get started teaching?
I completed my teaching cerificate requirements at a state university in Arizona about 28 years ago. Once my coursework was completed the university hired me on a permanent basis, to this day!
What types of students have you worked with?
K-12, higher education, adults preparing for a trip to a Spanish speaking country, adults preparing for a job interview that requires Spanish.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Kids in Focus, a non-profit organization in which I volunteer, hosts a yearly fundraising event , "Noche para los Niños". The last event was held in November, 2019 -COVID prevented us from having an event in 2020- and featured live music, acrobats, performers, food stations, a live auction, and an exhibit of photographs created by vulnerable kids.
https://kidsinfocus.org/
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone with extensive experience in the field, but also make sure there is chemistry between the student and the teacher.
If the teacher is experienced, the chemistry will follow.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Only one, really: is there a specific reason why I need a tutor?
This will open the door to a conversation about the student's special needs, learning style, and motivating factors.
And, in turn, this will dictate the tone of the lessons.