Can you tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Lida, I’m 30, and I’m originally from Prague in the Czech Republic. I studied in California in high school and I studied linguistics at Aberdeen University in Scotland. I went travelling after my university degree and I was planning on teaching abroad, but I missed Scotland too much, and I’ve been living in Edinburgh since 2015. I am currently studying a master’s degree in Online and Distance education with the Open University.
When I’m not teaching English, I like to learn other languages. I was always surrounded by languages and quickly grew to love learning them. Both my mother and grandmother can speak eight languages. My goal is to beat them and speak nine. Right now, I can speak four languages well and three others terribly.
I love baking and trying out new recipes for bread. I find kneading especially relaxing.
I read a lot of fiction and fantasy books, but I love 20th-century poets like Frank O’Hara and Margaret Atwood. I love getting lost in other worlds and stories and I often find it hard to put down my book to do the dishes. This is also why I enjoy playing video games. For me they are interactive books where I can influence the plot with my choices.
What do you like most about learning languages?
I love the challenge and being able to connect with people around the world. Our perception of the world changes with the language we are speaking. I remember learning French at school and wondering how French people can function without certain words often used in Czech. I think speaking languages is like playing musical instruments. It takes time to learn it properly, but it can connect people in an instant.
What’s the hardest thing about learning a language?
I think this is very personal. I usually don’t have problems with pronunciation, but punctuation is a nightmare. Speaking is usually the most difficult skill to master. I think the hardest thing though is persevering with learning. As I said before, it takes time, and this can discourage many people.
What do you like most about teaching English?
I love seeing the ‘aha’ moment in my students’ eyes. And in general, seeing students improve can be very rewarding. I like to work on speaking confidence and pronunciation as it can really improve your enjoyment from using the language. I also like to learn about my students’ culture and food in particular.
What advice would you give to English language learners?
Have fun! Find something you’re interested in and try it in English. Enjoyment is really important. I’d also recommend you practise every day, even if only for ten minutes. And don’t be scared to use the language and make some mistakes. The more you use it, the easier it gets.
What do you like most about Scotland?
I initially decided to study in Scotland because I liked the accents. Since the first day I arrived I felt welcome and like this was home. In my view Scotland has it all: tea, kind people, rich culture and traditions, unique humour, beautiful nature. I even like the miserable weather.
Is there anything else you’d like to say to our Intrepid English students?
I am looking forward to working with any new students and helping you achieve your goals in English.