Hi I'm Laura, owner of ESL Seattle. For me the best thing about teaching English is inspiring my students to succeed. This work could be boring if I just focused on teaching grammar, but helping students become successful and discovering ways they can learn more easily is endlessly fascinating. I will challenge you to do your best and I will make you feel that you can! I love to teach because it is a great vehicle for my continuing education in human nature.

I have over four years of experience in English instruction, mostly working one-on-one with students to inspire them to achieve. I also have more than two years of experience teaching online or by phone. I have a C.E.L.T.A, a certificate authorized by Cambridge University. Earning this certification taught me language instruction—my other educational experience helped me learn the art of motivating students. I have a bachelor's degree in psychology, and a graduate certificate in integral theory. Integral theory is a school of philosophy that focuses on the development of degrees of conscious awareness, and on concepts that individuals and cultures use to frame their world.

The study of psychology and integral theory has given me a good understanding of human nature and this has been a valuable tool for relating to students. The knowledge I gained through this study has allowed me to develop a teaching method that focuses on the whole person—not just on intellectual development.

In addition to my experience as an English teacher, other work experiences have also contributed to my teaching method. I am a published writer, I have had a consulting business working as a graphic and website designer, and I was the co-owner of a company which helped people find adventure travel opportunities. My experience as a business owner has given me first-hand knowledge of the needs of those who are using English for business communication. My experience as a writer qualifies me to help students improve their writing, and my unusual work experiences gives me interesting topics to bring up in conversation to challenge my students.

Through teaching I am learning to motivate my students to reach their potential, and to motivate myself to make positive change in the world.