Jill Bauer, BA, MA-TESOL

I discovered my love of teaching languages during my senior year of college, when my Spanish professor asked me to become a Spanish I tutor. In addition to meeting with students one-on-one, I led study sessions before exams. During those sessions, I experienced the thrill of explaining grammar in a way that helped others understand it. I realized then that I wanted to become a language teacher. I finished my degree in public relations, but I planned to return to school when I was able. After graduating, I was asked to help with my church’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program. Before that experience, I didn’t even know that ESL programs existed! That experience introduced me to a new path, and when I finally returned to school, I became an ESL instructor rather than a Spanish teacher. Since then, I have taught ESL, primarily in community college programs, and have developed a particular interest in supporting multilingual students as they develop their academic language and succeed in college. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Education at the University of Illinois.

Languages Taught: English

Why I Teach: I love teaching because I can help students while we all learn about language and culture together. It is a joy to see my students succeed as they study English.