Community Profile: Jordi
Sometimes our community profile will be about a teacher instead if a student. This week, our Advanced-level instructor Jordi gave us an interview about herself!
Tell me about yourself?
My name is Jordi Zimmer and I have been teaching ESL for 20+ years. I have a degree in English Literature, Digital Film Production certificate, and have just recently completed a certificate in Career Practitioner Development which qualifies me to help people in various circumstances find jobs. I have taught English and Business Communications from the beginner to the advanced level, to different demographics including teens, university students, and adults. Two of my favourite English topics to review and teach are grammar and everyday collocations and idiomatic expressions such as “Learning English is a piece of cake!”
What do you recommend things to do in Vancouver?
I also love photography and taking pictures of landscapes, from city streets to beaches to the forests. One of my favourite places to go is Spanish Banks because it has beautiful sunsets to photograph. Here, you can also enjoy the beach, bring a portable BBQ, have a snack from the concession-stand or try skim boarding. Just remember to bring your towel and some sunscreen!
Where are your Vancouver “hidden gem” locations that you always go to when you want to refresh your mind?
One of the hidden gems that I want to share with you is North Vancouver’s Shipyards. It is easy to get there, just a Seabus ride away. You can start your adventure at Lonsdale Quay looking at the different foods, treats, and artisans at the market. Then, you can walk to the Shipyards. In the summertime, they have weekly night markets, a free outdoor movie series, and a splash park for the kids, which in the winter becomes an ice-skating rink. There are also a lot of different types of shops that include local artists, different types of restaurants for food lovers, and retailers. The Polygon Gallery is also a fantastic place to visit while at the Shipyards and the cost of admission is based on donations. Here is a wonderful link to the Polygon: https://thepolygon.ca/
What advice you can give it to the newcomers?
My one piece of advice for newcomers to the Greater Vancouver District is “don’t be shy!” If you are lost, it is a good time to practice asking for directions. Most people are friendly and are willing to help. If you want to know about a restaurant, ask for some advice from friends you meet. Remember, when you ask, you are not only practicing your verbal communication, but you are also practicing your listening and comprehension skills…and that means you are on your way to achieving your English goals!
How is your experience going with MOSAIC and Vancouver life?
I love living here and getting to know new people, and hopefully you will be one of them!