Student Journals: AIFS in Rome, Italy

Steve Giannetto
St. John Fisher College
Richmond in Rome, Italy

On the Subject of Tutoring

Steve GiannettoAs a student enrolled in AIFS, Richmond in Rome, I had the opportunity of extra curricular tutoring with a family that was interested in their daughter continuing her studies through the summer vacation. During their three week holiday, I lived with them and held daily lessons with the 13 yr old, practicing English using her school curriculum. My work included: reading to her and listening to her read, correcting her pronunciation, quiz her on the meanings of complicated words, and develop basic lesson plans to challenge her with trouble areas. I used my basic grasp of Italian to assist her understanding, and my knowledge of the Italian language improved as a result of our lessons.

During fall 2010 semester at Richmond, I continued the lessons on a weekly basis in their home, as the parents were pleased with her improved confidence in speaking English. My sessions in the fall consisted of reviewing her English and Grammar homework, guiding her completion of all assignments, and making sure she was efficient with the material.

familyThis experience was invaluable to my studies, not only my learning Italian as I taught the young lady English, but the relationships that I developed with the family have become my fondest memories during my six months in Italy. I strongly recommend tutoring to any student who has the opportunity while studying abroad. The experience is an incredible way to get to know Italy in a deeper, more personal way.