日本語
한국어
简体中文
繁體中文
Italiano
español
Deutsch
Русский
Crista F
Lesson Categories
Language Fluency
| English | Native |
|---|---|
| Chinese | Proficient |
| French | Proficient |
| Italian | Just a few words |
| Spanish | Just a few words |
Tutor Stats
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Available Times
A Journey Through Language and Connection
I didn't always know I would become a language teacher, but looking back, the path seems clear. It started in a classroom full of young children, where I watched something remarkable happen year after year. As students learned to express themselves more clearly, their entire world seemed to expand. Their confidence grew, their social connections deepened, and they discovered possibilities they hadn't imagined before. I realized then that language isn't just about grammar and vocabulary. It's about unlocking who we can become.
That insight has stayed with me throughout my teaching journey, which has now spanned students of all ages, from young learners to adults pursuing their dreams through English.
Learning from the Other Side
My perspective as a teacher is deeply shaped by my own experience as a language learner. I spent nearly nine years living and working in Shanghai, where I immersed myself in Mandarin Chinese. The experience humbled me. Chinese taught me to think differently. It taught me to appreciate layers of meaning, to read between the lines, and to see the world through a new lens. There were moments when I questioned how much I could truly understand, but those struggles gave me something valuable: empathy for every student who sits across from me, navigating the challenges of a new language.
It was in Shanghai that I also found my Taiji community. Taiji is a practice I had begun in my hometown of Los Angeles. Training in Taiji has become a lifelong commitment, and I aim to apply its wisdom into everything I do, including teaching. My teacher explains a three-part dynamic of struggle, acceptance, and separation. We struggle by pushing beyond our comfort zones. We accept where we are, honestly and without judgment. And we separate just enough to reflect on our progress and choose our next steps wisely. This rhythm of growth applies beautifully to language learning, and I try to create space for it in every lesson.
What Students Tell Me
Over the years, students have shared that what stands out about my lessons is the way I listen: attentively, without rushing, creating space for them to truly express themselves. Many come to me focused on specific language goals, such as exam preparation, business English, and conversational fluency. But something else often happens along the way. They start talking about what matters to them: their interests, their challenges, their dreams.
Some have jokingly said my lessons feel a bit like therapy sessions. I don't set out to create that, but I understand what they mean. When we focus on what's genuinely important to a student, when we explore topics they care about - whether that's literature, psychology, travel, or their professional field - the hesitation melts away. They become more comfortable speaking out loud, more confident in their expression.
I recently worked with an adult learner preparing for an English exam. She started with hesitation and intimidation about the material. But as we explored exam topics together, we discovered her passion for literature and psychology. Months later, she's speaking with clarity and confidence, driven by genuine momentum. She told me that while she began wanting to pass an exam, she reached a different level entirely. She realized she could use English to explore what truly interests her. Moments like these remind me of what's possible with language learning.
My Approach
Because I've studied Chinese with a specific focus - the language of Taiji training, which matters most to me - I understand the power of prioritization. I bring this to my students by helping them identify what feels most significant to them. This approach is both practical and personal. In our lessons, you'll talk about what's meaningful to you, and I'll meet you in that conversation with sincere interest.
I'm looking for students who are ready to make a consistent effort, who want to stretch beyond their comfort zone, and who are seeking an interesting, personalized learning process. Whether you're preparing for an exam, advancing your career, or simply wanting to express yourself more clearly in English, I'm here to create a space where you can grow.
Beyond the Classroom
When I'm not teaching, I'm usually learning. I'm currently focusing on Chinese and Italian. I'm a world traveler and a dedicated Taiji student, always seeking to incorporate the wisdom of this practice into all areas of my life. These experiences remind me daily that language learning is about more than communication. It's about connection, perspective, and transformation.
I'd be honored to be part of your language journey. Let's discover together what becomes possible when you find your voice in English.
Cafetalk's cancellation policy
Before request is confirmed (fixed)
- Cancellation possible at any time without charge.
After request is confirmed (fixed)
- More than 24 hours before lesson start time.→ Cancellation is possible at any time.
- Less than 24 hours before lesson start time.→ The tutor may take a cancellation fee.
-
No-Show→ The tutor may take a cancellation fee.
(Please check with the tutor for details.)
Lessons by this tutor
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Everyday English Conversations
From small talk to deep discussions, express yourself with easeEnglish
25min X 4 6,000PPack of 4 -
Everyday English Conversations
From small talk to deep discussions, express yourself with easeEnglish
25min 1,500P -
English for Children
Watch your child's confidence grow as they discover English through games, stories, and songsEnglish
25min X 4 6,000PPack of 4 -
English for Children
Watch your child's confidence grow as they discover English through games, stories, and songsEnglish
25min 1,500P -
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Professional English Mastery
Communicate with Confidence in Any Business SettingEnglish
25min X 4 6,000PPack of 4 -
Professional English Mastery
Communicate with Confidence in Any Business SettingEnglish
25min 1,500P -
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