In Conversation With...
Mariana Julião
Portugal
Where are you from / How old are you / Which school do you go to?
I'm from Cascais, Portugal. I'm 14 years old and I go to Salesianas, Cascais.
When did you start studying at ELC?
I think I started at ELC when I was 11 years old, I think is in my fifth year here. My first teacher here at ELC was Caroline Darling and there were I think 2 or 3 other students in the class. I'm now in TB1 second year.
Why did you start studying here?
First I was with The British Council but then they went to Parede and ELC was close and it was easier for me to start here rather than going all the way to Parede.
What do you like about studying here?
I like studying in ELC because the teachers allow me to make mistakes and now I have no fear to speak even if I make a mistake. Also, the classes are different here than in school and we do a lot of different things in class. I like that the class size is small because you get more attention from the teacher, this may not be possible if the class is very big.
What areas do you feel you have made most progress in?
I think I have made a lot of progress with my speaking and also my writing. When I listen to English it sounds very good to me. But I like to read and read as much as I can.
How do you think English will help you in the future?
I think English is the most important language in the world, everyone knows it. If you want to study abroad you will have to speak English. I think English is very important for the future, for science and other things. I might go for science or be a doctor in the future and I will need to know how to speak English.
What advice would you give to younger students?
I would say to them to not be afraid to make mistakes and to express yourself as much as possible.
Thank you Mariana!
Teacher: Vicki Goulding
Interviewer: Neil Rush
