LCC loves to showcase our students! Our students are clearly strong representations of our academic programs. Our students are examples of our commitment to the development of young people as balanced individuals who are critical thinkers creating positive change in civil society. Today we showcase Yuliia Maltseva, a current MA TESOL student from Ukraine.  Here is short interview with Yuliia.  

Question: Yuliia, you took a gap year during your BA studies at LCC to work as an au pair. What did you do as an au pair?

Yuliia: Being an au pair was so much more than just babysitting. It was about becoming a big sister to the two little girls (who were 5 and 6 at the time). My days were packed with preparing meals (3-4 times a day), helping with homework, driving them to school and activities, doing their laundry and just keeping them entertained. On top of that, I got involved in a local church as a youth leader which was an amazing experience. And since the Au Pair program required some coursework, I also took online classes while juggling everything else.

Question: After successfully completing your BA in English Language and Literature at LCC in spring 2024, you taught a kindergarten in Klaipeda? What was your role as a teaching assistant at Sv. Pranciškaus Kindergarten?

Yuliia: At Šv. Pranciškaus Kindergarten, I was basically the teacher’s right hand. I helped with things like taking attendance, playing with the kids and assisting those who needed extra help with activities. But the best part? I got to create an English-speaking environment by talking to the kids in English every day and even leading some English lessons. It was such a fun and rewarding experience!

Question: You are currently living in Klaipeda, Lithuania. What other activities are you involved in?
Yuliia: I am doing (now completed) my practicum at Klaipėdos Uostamiesčio Progimnazija, mainly teaching 5th and 7th graders. Outside of that, I spend a lot of time at my church where I help run a teenage ministry. A group of us, young adults, put together monthly gatherings for the teens including those who do not usually go to church. I am usually in charge of decorations and games which I love doing!

Question: Speak a little about your experience as a current MA TESOL student.

Yuliia: I am really enjoying the MA TESOL program! The courses have given me fresh new perspectives on teaching, and I am excited to keep learning. Sometimes, I even feel like a detective piecing together clues in linguistics for example. Or even like an explorer discovering new things about language teaching every day!

I also would like to give a shout out to the amazing ladies in my cohort! Their dedication, support and ability to manage so many things at once constantly inspire me! Studying alongside them has made this journey even more rewarding!

Thank you, Yuliia, for giving us insight to your experiences.

Author: Robin Gingerich, Ph.D., MA TESOL Program Director at LCC International University.