Alicja Chojnacka

I was born and raised in Poland, and in high school I specialised in Polish literature and history. Therefore, my level of Polish is native in the purest sense of the word. At the age of 18 I moved to the Netherlands where I did a bachelor's (in English of course) in Literature and Film Studies. During my bachelor's, I also went on exchange to Ireland where I spent 6 months and received first class honours in all my courses. I graduated with magna cum laude honours.

I remember when I was younger, living in Poland and trying to learn English. I found the classes at school to be boring and unhelpful in developing actual communication skills, especially when it comes to have an everyday conversation - which is the most important skill to have! I know from experience what works and what doesn't, but the truth is that everyone is different! this is why, I will try out many things with each student and see what works for them.

I would certainly focus on immersion in the language and culture - consuming media, reading (book excerpts, newspapers, news headlines, etc). Moreover, I find it very important for us to communicate in the language as much as possible, therefore I will (in a very amicable way) force you to speak it with me. I know how daunting and stressful that may be, which is why I find it incredibly important to create a space free from judgement but full of encouragement!

For younger students, I understand how stressful it may be for parents to hand their precious children to a stranger, which is why I absolutely understand if they wish to 'watch over' the first class or two. My schedule is very flexible and therefore, I have a lot of time for my students.