Why did you decide to become a foreign language teacher, and how did you end up on that career path?
I started teaching Czech to foreigners whilst I was still at university. At first, I was drawn to the specialisation in Czech as a foreign language, but I very quickly came to love the teaching itself. I enjoy watching students gradually gain confidence in Czech, discover the beauty of our language and, through it, get to know Czech culture. What gives me the greatest joy, however, is when someone learns Czech out of their own interest and enthusiasm.
Do you have any experience of living abroad?
During my Master’s degree, I spent a semester in Brussels, where I taught Czech to foreign students at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. As well as teaching skills, I also picked up two unexpected skills there: the art of surviving endless rain and the ability to resist pralines that make you think ‘just one more’ doesn’t really count. After completing my studies, I set off on another semester-long placement, this time to sunny Spain. At the University of Santiago de Compostela, I taught Czech once again, but at the same time I learnt the local philosophy of life: take your time, enjoy the present moment and regularly recharge your batteries by the sea. And sometimes even on it, whilst surfing.
What do you do when you’re not working?
When I’m not teaching, I spend a lot of time outdoors – going for a walk, cycling or just out in nature somewhere where I can breathe deeply and switch off. I enjoy doing sport, reading and painting my own pictures, because colours and movement are the best way for me to clear my mind. And then there’s my other side – the couch potato side. Every now and then, I happily treat myself to a bit of lazing about and can spend hours watching a good TV series.
What do you enjoy most about being a teacher?
What I enjoy most about being a teacher is seeing how students gradually make progress and gain greater confidence in Czech. I’m delighted by their motivation to learn a new language and discover Czech culture. I also really enjoy the atmosphere in the classroom – the interaction between the students, their curiosity, their sense of humour and, often, their surprising imagination, which make every lesson a little different.
What do you consider to be the most important aspect of working with students?
I believe the most important thing is to create an environment in which students aren’t afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are, after all, a natural part of learning, and without them, you cannot progress. I try to encourage students to use Czech as much as possible, even when they’re unsure, and not to be afraid to speak to native speakers. However, personal motivation is just as important. When you’re keen to learn and try new things, everything comes much more easily.
If you were to live in another country, which one would you choose and why?
If I had to choose a country to live in, it would be Spain. During my semester abroad in Spain, I fell in love with the local culture, the openness of the people and their way of life. I like the fact that they know how to savour the moment, they don’t rush about unnecessarily, and they remind themselves that not everything has to be done straight away. I’m also very drawn to the idea of living just a stone’s throw from the sea.