Introduction In the vast world of online education, finding a teacher who not only imparts knowledge but also inspires and motivates is a rare gem. Maria K. is one such educator. A student at Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, originally from Bolekhiv but currently living in Ivano-Frankivsk, she has dedicated herself to helping students learn English through private lessons. I’ve been following her Telegram channel, where she shares her thoughts on language learning, self-improvement, and life itself. Today, we sit down with her to discuss her experiences and insights as an English tutor.
🔹 Follow Maria’s Telegram channel for more insights and English learning tips: LingrichEng
Interview
Q: Hi Maria! It’s great to speak with you today. Could you start by telling us how you got into teaching English?
Maria: Hi! Thanks for having me. Honestly, I never planned on becoming a teacher, but life has a way of leading you where you’re needed. I’ve always loved English, and when my friends started asking me for help, I realized I really enjoyed explaining things. Over time, this turned into private tutoring, and now it’s a big part of my life.
Q: You recently shared on your channel that many of your students are currently abroad due to the situation in Ukraine. What are some of the most common reasons they want to learn English?
Maria: Yes, that’s true. Most of my students are looking for better job opportunities—better jobs mean better salaries. Others want to improve their communication skills to expand their social circles, which can open many doors. Of course, there are also those who just love learning, want to travel, or enjoy understanding movies and books in their original language. The reasons vary, but the motivation is always strong.
Q: In one of your recent posts, you mentioned that even Hamlet would have been more concerned with learning English rather than pondering “to be or not to be.” Do you think people underestimate the importance of learning a second language?
Maria: Absolutely! Some people see learning a language as just another subject in school, but in reality, it’s a key to endless opportunities. Whether it’s better career prospects, social connections, or access to global information, English plays a huge role in today’s world. That’s why I always encourage my students to see it as an investment in their future rather than just another obligation.
Q: You also talk a lot about personal growth and self-awareness. How do you think these ideas connect with learning a language?
Maria: Language learning is not just about grammar and vocabulary—it’s about expanding your worldview. When you learn a new language, you also learn new ways of thinking and understanding people. It helps build empathy and teaches you patience. Plus, self-discipline plays a huge role in mastering any skill, including English.
Q: One of your posts emphasizes the idea that “people need people.” How does that philosophy shape your approach to teaching?
Maria: I truly believe in that phrase. Learning a language is a social process—it’s not just about studying alone with a book. Communication is key. That’s why I always encourage my students to practice speaking as much as possible, to engage in conversations, and to surround themselves with people who support their growth. A supportive learning environment makes a huge difference.
Q: You’ve shared thoughts on gratitude and how it affects mental well-being. How do you stay motivated despite the challenges of balancing university, work, and personal life?
Maria: Honestly, it’s not easy. University takes up a lot of time and energy, but I’ve come to realize that self-education is just as important—if not more. What keeps me going is gratitude. I try to focus on what I have rather than what I lack. Also, my students inspire me. Seeing their progress reminds me why I do this.
Q: Speaking of challenges, you also mentioned struggling with procrastination and distractions. How do you deal with that?
Maria: Ah, yes. I think we all experience it at some point! I’ve been reading a lot about productivity techniques, like the Pomodoro method and breathing exercises. I also set limits on social media usage and try to plan my days better. And, of course, music helps—I’ve been playing the ukulele more to clear my mind!
Q: In another post, you reflected on the past year, sharing how much you’ve grown, faced challenges, and learned to appreciate every moment. How do these experiences shape your teaching and outlook on life?
Maria: Life is full of ups and downs, and every experience teaches us something. I try to instill this mindset in my students as well. Learning English, like life, is a journey—you will make mistakes, face challenges, and sometimes feel stuck. But every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Gratitude, patience, and self-belief are essential not just for learning a language but for everything we do.
Q: You also talked about the influence of social media and the illusions it creates. How do you think this affects people’s confidence and motivation?
Maria: Social media often presents an unrealistic version of life, making people feel like they’re not doing enough or not successful enough. This can be discouraging, especially for learners who compare their progress to someone else’s highlight reel. I always remind my students to focus on their own journey and celebrate small wins. Real growth happens offline, in the effort you put in every day.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to someone just starting their journey in learning English?
Maria: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! That’s the biggest obstacle for most learners. Language is about communication, not perfection. Also, start as early as possible—the sooner you begin, the faster you’ll reach your goal. And most importantly, find joy in the process. Whether it’s through movies, books, or conversations, make learning fun!
Conclusion Maria’s insights go beyond language learning—her perspective on self-growth, gratitude, and adaptability make her not just a teacher, but a mentor. If you’re looking for an inspiring and thoughtful tutor, she’s definitely someone to consider. Keep learning, investing in yourself, and as Maria says, “People need people.”
🔹 Follow Maria’s Telegram channel for more insights and English learning tips: LingrichEng
