WHO am I? And WHERE am I from?

My name is Svetco, your dedicated English teacher from Los Angeles, California, USA. I was born and raised in a section called San Pedro, where there were many languages spoken besides English. Immigrants and their descendants could be heard around our little town speaking in Italian, Croatian, Greek, Spanish, and other languages. In my own household, I grew up speaking English, Spanish, and some Croatian, and many of my friends’ families spoke Italian. It was the perfect place for a future linguist/teacher to be formed!

WHEN did I become a teacher? And WHY?

When I was a graduate student in San Diego, California, I taught my first class ever – and it was in Spanish, my second language! I was a bit nervous at first speaking in front of a group for the very first time in my life (besides college presentations!), but at the same time I immediately felt a rush of energy and excitement knowing that my students were learning from me and that I was sharing my knowledge. I was hooked on teaching! That was over 25 years ago!

WHAT have I done since then?

I eventually focused on teaching English, my native language! I went on to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) to students in high school, primary school, and university in the USA. I also taught working adults in Guadalajara, Mexico. Many of my students were learning English for the very first time! I also spent several years teaching English to students in Saudi Arabia, which was quite an interesting and enriching experience all the way around! Working in Saudi Arabia was not only exciting for me as a teacher, but it also gave me a chance to learn and appreciate the Arab culture and grow as an individual. I also had the opportunity to travel to over 30 countries while I was there. I am very thankful for that experience!