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Philosophy 

AS A COACH:

I believe that each person possesses the ability to do well in foreign language studies. For this, they need to discover how they learn best and utilize the proper forms of learning materials to suit their individual learning style and needs. This is my focus when I teach. With this in mind, I adapt to the backgrounds of my students to give them effective, meaningful new information and empower them to use a new language in the real world. I create ways for students to engage with language outside of lesson times and make a new language an integral part of their lives. This is what I'm passionate about! 

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AS A CONSULTANT:

Although my general aim is to "break the language barrier," I am of the belief that language and culture are inseparable, and that learning culture is crucial to positive communication, truly effective diversity initiatives, and developing mutual respect throughout the world. In a globalized environment, it is imperative to study culture and develop the networks meaningful  for kickstarting our own success, as well as the achievements of others. Learning culture is a matter of understanding, respect, and self development. It improves our relationships, helps us show appreciation to others, and expands our own worldviews. Culture (quite literally) makes the world go 'round. 

Experience and Achievements

  • Native of American English with 5 years of coaching background

  • International TEFL and TESOL certifications

  • Lexical approach to learning through personalized courses

  • Online + classroom experience with students of various backgrounds aged 16-64

  • High-level proficiency or fluency in Spanish, Russian, and German

  • Global career background with teaching and research roles in Europe and North America

  • Specialty tutor for “real-life English”: idioms, phrasal verbs, slang, and “Americanisms”

 

I have spent the last 5 years helping others learn and engage with foreign languages, as well as developing skills in my areas of interest, such as linguistics and effective teaching methods.

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In 2023, I graduated from university with a B.A. in Foreign Languages and International Trade, where I worked as a Russian tutor with the Critical Languages Program through the U.S. Department of State throughout my time there and chose German as my major concentration. While acquiring my bachelor's degree, I was chosen to receive the Distinguished World Languages and Cultures Scholar Award at Samford University, among other excellence awards and scholarships specifically tied to German studies. During this time, I also studied at Freie Universität Berlin in Germany, where I participated in an intensive language program.

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My passion for languages and cultures has taken me all over the world, as I participate in business partnerships and language initiatives in both Europe and North America. In addition to thriving in coaching roles, I have additional experience with language in the areas of translation, media creation, and cultural consultation. I have developed learning-related content for hundreds of students through my personal business, as well as through my guest work for other learning institutions. I am currently in long-term course creation partnership with a language school based in Kyiv, Ukraine.

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In 2023, I also interned at the German CDU party think-tank, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, where I used my skill set to produce a research project on Ukrainian tech innovation, its impact during the war, and broader implications for administrative security and E.U. digitalization strategy. 

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Both face-to-face and online, my work spans a wide range of clients from 13 countries, including Ukraine, Türkiye, Germany, Brazil, India, France, and Mexico. I've worked with research and translation materials in Spanish, German, Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish, helping my clients accomplish their goals with language in fields such as marketing, real estate, management, technology, and diplomacy.

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WHAT I DO: 

  • Create effective strategies for individuals to reach their personal or professional goals with language studies
     

  • Craft courses for businesses and organizations to expand their teams' professional repertoire through language and culture studies

     

  • Prepare clients for success in international settings through cultural and linguistic consultation, no matter their field​

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WHAT IS "BREAKING THE LANGUAGE BARRIER" ABOUT?

Just as there is more to each individual than one sees on the surface, there is more to language than just words on paper. Behind each way of speaking is a way of life and a way of thinking which can slowly be uncovered through examining the words we use every day. Behind a way of life is a culture; there we find traditions and beliefs and "vibes" all bundled up into one, and they influence the way we feel and communicate. To capture the essence of language and to truly connect with one another, we need to actually "break" the language barrier. This also means our typical learning processes must be constantly adapted, reformed, and reorganized. I'm here to discover for myself and to share with you how this works!
 

WHAT'S THE SOURCE OF INSPIRATION?

The biggest inspiration for me is a combination of the people who believe in me and the places that their love and support take me. These unique experiences influence me strongly and give me a story to tell.
On a personal level, I enjoy a challenge to inspire, create, or innovate. That's why I can also say that any and all of my content is self-made. I produce my own ideas, write my own material, and make all of the photos you see on my own. 
 

Lauri Speaks

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