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Almun Spotlight: Chris Wallett
Chris Wallett, currently Director of Academic Affairs at ELS Language Centers and a board member of EnglishUSA, graduated from the MA TESOL program in 2012. Find out what he has done since completing the program.
What led to your decision to pursue the MA TESOL Program?
I graduated from American University’s School of International Service with a BA in International Studies but struggled for several years to find a true purpose or job that used my passion for working within international communities. After a trip to Malaysia and Singapore, I witnessed, firsthand, the power of the English language in building communities and relationships through the empowerment of individuals able to communicate in a shared 2nd language. I wanted to further this empowerment, and this new focus led me to teaching. Shortly after, as a commitment to this career path, I joined the MA TESOL program.
More about Chris
What was your time at AU like as a MA TESOL student? What’s your favorite memory?
I greatly enjoyed my time at AU (I am a “Double Eagle” after all), and it has, ultimately, become the starting point for my life and career. The support I received from professors, administrators, and my fellow students gave me the confidence and knowledge to pursue my goals. The program’s blend of in-class learning and hands-on experience helped me quickly and effectively develop the skills I needed to succeed. My favorite memories of my time as a TESOL student took place in the back of the TESOL program office where I would hang out and study with my classmates most afternoons, just prior to our evening classes. These “in-between” moments were instrumental in my growth and development, and my classmates were always an invaluable resource.
What did you do as soon as you graduated from the AU TESOL program?
Immediately after graduation, I moved abroad and on my return to the US in 2014, I began teaching at ELS Philadelphia. In the 11 years I’ve worked at ELS, I’ve had the opportunity to be an Instructor, Academic Director, Center Director, and now the Director of Academic Affairs, overseeing the academic programs, operations, and curriculum at the 11 schools across the United States.
What advice would you give to current AU TESOL students and recent graduates?
Whether you’re starting your career or looking to advance it through the MA TESOL program, I would encourage you to make the commitment of getting involved in different organizations, associations, and communities either through work or volunteer opportunities. While I originally had plans to teach long-term, I was able to make the best of a number of opportunities that have led me to my current position. I am grateful every day for the work I am able to do, but I never would have imagined that this is where I would end up. So, be open to new opportunities, build meaningful connections, and don’t hesitate to carve your own path. You never know where it might lead.
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Student Spotlight: Benjamin Tamatey
Benjamin Tamatey is a current MA TESOL student. Read more to find out about his teaching experience and time in the AU TESOL program.
Please introduce yourself:
My name is Benjamin Tamatey, and I am currently a graduate student in the TESOL program at American University. I have a background in Economics and Spanish, having earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Ghana. I have a passion for teaching and immersing myself in different cultures. I am also happily married to a wonderful Ecuadorian.
When did you first become interested in TESOL?
My interest in TESOL began during my time in Ecuador, where I worked and volunteered as an English instructor. Teaching English to Spanish speakers allowed me to witness firsthand how language can empower individuals, open opportunities, and bridge cultures. That experience solidified my desire to pursue a formal education in TESOL to enhance my teaching skills and make a greater impact.
In your opinion, what are some qualities that make a good teacher?
A good teacher is a keen listener and observer, allowing students to express their thoughts freely while guiding them toward effective communication. Strong communication skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment are also essential qualities.
More about Benjamin
Are you currently teaching English? If yes, where and what is your learner population?
Yes, I am currently a volunteer teacher at the Washington English Center in Washington, DC. My students are primarily adult learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, including Spanish, French, and Arabic speakers. They have different proficiency levels and learning goals, which makes teaching both exciting and challenging.
In your opinion, what makes a successful language learner and teacher?
Passion and dedication are the core components for a successful language learner and teacher. A successful language learner is motivated, consistent, and open to making mistakes as part of the learning process. A successful teacher, on the other hand, is adaptable and learner centered. They create a supportive environment that encourages interaction and confidence-building.
What do you plan to do after you complete the TESOL program?
With my master's degree in TESOL, I am confident that a wide range of opportunities will be available to me. I aspire to work with adult learners, applying my knowledge and experience to help them achieve their language learning goals while fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.
What interests do you pursue outside of the classroom?
Outside of the classroom, I prioritize spending quality time with my wife — that’s my second career! In addition, I enjoy playing and watching soccer, and I also dedicate time to improving my French.
Student Spotlight: Viann Casteel
Viann Casteel is a current MA TESOL student. Read more to find out about his teaching experience and time in the AU TESOL program.
Please introduce yourself:
My name is Viann. English has been my favorite subject since elementary school. When I was younger, my father would buy me Tagalog-English and English-Tagalog dictionaries instead of toys because he really wanted me to be good at the language. I have always wanted to teach English in my country, which I did for a brief time.
When did you first become interested in TESOL?
When I moved to the U.S., I was unsure if teaching elementary school was the right path for me. That changed when I met my professor, who introduced me to TESOL. She suggested it might be a good fit since I was passionate about teaching but still uncertain about working in elementary education. I had never heard of TESOL before, but I am really glad she brought it up. My professors at Montgomery College also made a huge impact on me. They were passionate about teaching immigrants, and their dedication was inspiring. I want to do the same for my future students. I want to make them feel seen, valued, and appreciated for their efforts.
More about Viann
Did you have any teaching experience before you enrolled in AU's TESOL program?
I am a licensed professional teacher in the Philippines with experience in elementary education. In the Philippines, after completing an undergraduate degree, teachers must pass the licensure examination to be able to teach in public schools.
In your opinion, what are some qualities that make a good teacher?
To me, a good teacher is someone who has leadership skills, truly cares about their students, and is empathetic, compassionate, respectful, and emotionally intelligent.
Are you currently teaching English? If yes, where and what is your learner population?
Right now, I am teaching English to adult immigrants at the intermediate level. My students are between 18 and 65 years old and come from diverse backgrounds. I love it because it is an amazing class. I always learn something from them.
In your opinion, what makes a successful language learner and teacher?
I believe a successful language teacher is someone who creates a comfortable learning environment and helps students build confidence. A good teacher notices the little things, understands what is happening inside and outside the classroom, and supports students beyond just teaching the language. They also have intercultural awareness, recognizing and respecting the diverse backgrounds of their students. On the other hand, a successful language learner is someone who listens, is flexible, takes on challenges, puts in effort, respects everyone in the class, has self-awareness, and practices using the language consistently.
What do you plan to do after you complete the TESOL program?
Once I complete the TESOL program, I plan to continue volunteering and exploring different language proficiency levels. I also want to keep learning and apply for jobs that will help me gain more experience in teaching English.
What interests do you pursue outside of the classroom?
When I am not teaching, I enjoy doing a variety of things. I love traveling, working out, doing my makeup, watching Netflix, and trying out new restaurants. I am a big foodie. I also make time to meet up with friends, and family is very important to me. While I love staying at home, I make sure to do something with my family once every week or two, like going to an event, visiting a museum, or watching a movie together.
Recent Grads
Nan Qiu, MA TESOL 2024
After graduation, I immediately started working in English language teaching. I returned to China and became a TOEFL Writing instructor. As a new instructor, I spent an entire summer vacation adapting to the new educational environment, learning new teaching methods, and refining my lesson plans. After the summer break, I felt I had made significant progress; I even learned many different teaching techniques through discussions and collaborations with other experienced instructors. I’m pleased that I can apply the knowledge I gained in my TESOL courses to my actual teaching practice, which has helped me tailor my lessons to meet the specific needs of my students. In addition, I diligently prepared for the TOEFL during this time, which continuously exposed me to the opportunity to improve my language proficiency.
Amina Rahman, MA TESOL 2024
I volunteer to teach at the Washington English Center (WEC). The WEC provides the adult immigrant community in the Washington DC area with English language and workforce development programs. I am now co-teaching an introductory class with a focus on pronunciation that is based on the Color Vowel® approach (CV®). Another part of my WEC teaching commitment is to offer a virtual workshop(s) to WEC teachers who are interested in learning how to teach pronunciation. This initiative is based on the materials I created for my independent study.
More about Amina
In pursuit of teaching pronunciation well, I recently completed English Language Solutions' (ELS) Color Vowel Basics course and will begin its Level 1 Certification program this November. For more information on teaching pronunciation with the Color Vowel® approach go to https://www.colorvowel.com.
I also tutor online at the African Community Center of Virginia (ACC-VA), a branch office of the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC). (The ECDC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help refugees from all over the world resettle in the United States.) The ECDC ACC-VA offers the refugee community in the Washington DC area in-person and online classes as well as tutoring in the English language. The Center also offers many other programs that aid refugee resettlement (e.g., advocacy, employment, healthcare, legal aid mentoring).