TEACHING ENGLISH IN PERÚ BY RUDY LEUE

It appears to me that Peruvians are adventurous people.

TEACHING ENGLISH IN PERU

by Rudy Leue.

So far the experience I’ve had teaching English in Peru has been very positive.

Most students approach learning English very realistically, agreeing it is the way to a better life; however, as in most things, some pursue it more enthusiastically than others.

When I say a better way of life, I mean that most students say they believe there may be more opportunities, whether here or abroad, if they learn English. More opportunities equals greater income and a better standard of living, and, with that better standard of living, they want to take care of their parents, travel and shop more!

The bottom-line being, it appears that most Peruvian students  see the need to learn English, but some even want to learn it, and teaching English to people who want to learn is fun!

Secondly, it appears to me that Peruvians are adventurous people as almost all students want to travel outside of Peru and go anywhere to experience “another culture.” Since English is spoken to one degree or another in every country in the world, it is the obvious choice.

On rare occasions, I’ve had native Spanish speakers say they prefer English (and sometimes French) over their Castillian tongue; I find that intriguing, but it’s not the only reason I find them intriguing.

There are some very hard working, wonderful students in Peru.  They remind me a lot more of my generation (with the exception of their “electronic addiction”) than North American children do. The celebration of intelligence, drive and accomplishment still appears to be alive south of the equator while it’s all but dead just above it. This work ethic and passion are a couple of reasons why I find them intriguing and easy to work with.

Easy to work with is one thing, while fun is another. What makes the students fun to work with in Peru is that almost all students are very engaging. Students with a smile on their face and confidence in their eyes will gladly strike up a conversation at a moments notice, and often it’s me they want to talk with.

It’s nice to be wanted.

This must be the best answer when asked about my experience as a teaching professional in Peru. In my former, retired world, where no one asks for answers anymore or depends on me for their livelihood, I generally neither feel needed nor wanted. In this new life as an English professor, I have again found some purpose, though sometimes I am too tired to appreciate it.

The students here are amazing and help re-energize me with each class I teach. They are the reason I love to teach English in Peru!