Community Profile: Jordan
Our Beginner level teacher, Jordan, recently returned from teaching abroad, and this week she gave us an interview for the Community Profile. Find out what she’s been up to lately and pick up some English tips.
Tell me about yourself?
Hi all, my name is Jordan. I am a teacher here at MOSAIC Engage where I have been working since Fall 2022- so about one year! I took some time off last spring and summer to go and teach at a university in Osaka, Japan for a semester. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, reading, practicing tai chi and studying for my Master's degree!
Based on your experience, what activities are the best to do in Canada or particularly in Vancouver?
It depends. While I grew up in Coquitlam, I only moved to Vancouver eight years ago after spending a few years overseas teaching in Indonesia and Turkey. Since living in Vancouver, I have tried a number of activities from boxing to kung fu to indoor soccer and aerobics. For group activities, or exercise classes, I highly recommend community centers as they are reasonably priced and have activities for all ages and levels. Being an outdoors person as well, there are great day hikes, running trails and bike routes throughout the Lower Mainland as well.
What is your go-for food that make you feel you are home regardless of where you are?
While I like all food, food that feels like home would be chicken soup - especially as the weather changes to the fall and winter seasons!
What are good tips you can give newcomers to practice English.
Practice thinking in English. This can be really challenging for all levels, but it will help increase your fluency, thinking speed and ability to communicate as you see more neural connections connect in your brain that are English related instead of the one's that light up when you speak your native language.
What are the tips you can spare with newcomers before moving in Canada, Vancouver?
The best tip I got when I moved to Vancouver was from a boxing coach. I was having a hard time adjusting to Vancouver culture and he told me that "Vancouver is a weird city, but you'll figure it out." While Vancouver is definitely a beautiful city and has a lot of good things going for it, it can also be difficult to navigate. Take your time and try and enjoy the quirks, even when they get frustrating from time to time.