Master English with an expert online Master degree holder in English teaching with 23 years of experience in teaching IELTS, conversational and grammar , writing and reading courses.

Find out more about Mary

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  My interest in language started at a very young age. I was always fascinated by how words connect people from different worlds. This curiosity led me to study English Translation at both Bachelor's and Master's levels. Private tutoring began as a side activity during university, but I quickly realized how rewarding it is to witness a student's progress firsthand. It became more than just a job-it became a passion.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach English with a special focus on IELTS preparation, particularly Writing, and Reading. I love helping students become confident speakers by practicing real-life scenarios, improving their fluency, and polishing their pronunciation. In IELTS Speaking, I also work on developing well-structured and thoughtful answers to impress examiners.
  
  But where I truly do magic is in IELTS Reading and Writing. Many students feel stuck at Band 5 or 6, but with the right techniques, I've helped them jump to 7 or even 8 in a short time. In Reading, I train students to master skimming, scanning, and time-saving strategies so they can find correct answers quickly and confidently. In Writing, I break down the structure of both Task 1 and Task 2, guide them through high-scoring vocabulary and grammar use, and help them develop ideas clearly and logically. The improvement is often fast and dramatic!
  
  In addition to IELTS and general English, I also specialize in teaching Farsi (Persian) to non-native speakers. Many of my students are in relationships with Iranian partners and want to learn to communicate with their loved one and family. I offer a unique course that doesn't require learning the Persian alphabet, which can feel overwhelming at first. Instead, I use Finglish (Persian in Latin script), along with cultural insights and real-life expressions, so students can start speaking and understanding quickly and naturally. Later on, if they choose, we can dive into the alphabet-but it's never a barrier to communication.
  
  While I enjoy all aspects of English, my passion lies in the parts where real transformation happens-especially when students realize they can get the score they dreamed of with the right tools and support.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Yes, absolutely. I had a university professor who was both knowledgeable and kind. She had the rare ability to make complex ideas simple without ever sounding condescending. Her passion, clarity, and calm presence inspired me to adopt the same qualities in my own teaching.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  A good tutor must be patient, adaptable, and genuinely invested in the learner's journey. It's not just about knowing the subject-it's about understanding how each individual student learns best. Communication skills, empathy, and the ability to simplify and scaffold lessons are essential.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I once had a student who was very shy and struggled with English speaking. She avoided eye contact and barely spoke in the first few sessions. We started with tiny dialogues and eventually built confidence through role-plays and everyday scenarios. Months later, she delivered a short speech in English at her school event. That moment reminded me why I do what I do-it's the transformation that makes it all worthwhile.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or are still facing in your subject?

  One challenge is helping students overcome their fear of making mistakes-especially adult learners who feel self-conscious. Another ongoing challenge is balancing the different needs of learners in one class or adapting lessons quickly during live interpreting sessions. But with time and experience, I've developed strategies to address both.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  While I deeply enjoy teaching, my core passion is bridging communication gaps-whether through language, culture, or learning. That's why I also love interpreting and translation. There's something magical about being the bridge that connects people across linguistic and cultural boundaries.

• What makes you a Superprof?

  I genuinely care about each student's success and tailor every lesson to fit their unique needs. I bring not only expertise but also empathy, creativity, and energy to every session. My background in translation, interpretation, and language education helps me offer a well-rounded and cultural approach to language learning-making each session enriching, practical, and memorable.