When I was at school, I was quite the fighter — but not in the classroom. Back then, I first went to a Realschule and then to a Gymnasium, where my marks in English, French, and German were really, really bad. Interestingly, my teachers told me I just wasn’t a “language kind of person.” I hated English and French classes because the teachers made me speak despite my insecurities, often pointing out my mistakes and sometimes even laughing about them.
My parents came from East Germany and had learned Russian at school, so neither of them could help me. I finished school thinking I was a disappointment when it came to languages. I got my A-levels without knowing what to do with my life. I loved communication and writing, but I felt I sucked at it.
A Turning Point: Going Abroad as an Au Pair
Everything changed when I decided to go abroad as an Au Pair. I spent six weeks in England and then a whole year in the U.S. Suddenly, I excelled in the language! Having a clear goal made all the difference. I even think I was more motivated than other Au Pairs.
I started reading the books of the older kids I took care of—Harry Potter and other children’s fantasy books, but also classics like Anne of Green Gables and Little Women. At first, it was tough, but then I got hooked and kept reading. Reading had always been a hobby of mine—in German—but back then a whole new world opened up.
Back to Germany: Studying What I Loved
When I returned to Germany, I decided to go to university and continue working with languages. I didn’t want to become a teacher, instead, I chose a master’s degree focusing on American literature and communication, with minors in Italian literature and art history.
Yes, quite a mix, and maybe not the easiest path career-wise. But I never worried too much about what to do after graduation. Life always offers options, and I’ve never understood the fuss about humanities studies.
Teaching Around the World
During my studies, I traveled to Italy several times and then spent a year teaching German and English in Shijiazhuang, China—a huge city near Beijing, almost unknown abroad. It was unforgettable, and I mostly spoke English there, even more than in the U.S., because there were hardly any Germans around.
Finding My Passion at Home
After finishing my studies, I worked in international business, had kids, and then decided I wanted to spend more time with my family. I started recorder lessons with my oldest daughter and her friends, and shortly after began teaching English in our local daycare and primary school.
In Germany, children usually start English at age 8 (third grade). Most parents know that younger kids can learn a second language much easier, but it’s hard to create a community effort to support this early learning. Too bad!
Since then, I have developed several courses ranging from ages 4 to 16, and the demand is growing.
Why I Share My Story
I wanted to tell you how it all started for me. Language learning is not about perfection or natural talent—it’s about motivation, support, and fun. If you have questions or want to connect, just send me an email. I’d love to hear from you!
