For those of you that struggle with the language barrier, you’ll love today’s featured ex-pat. In this post, I’d like to introduce you to Judit Megal, owner of Spanish Accelerated (Use code Spanish22).
My family is Russian and I grew up with Russian as my first language and English as my second. Knowing these two languages can give you a bird’s-eye-view of how languages work and how Spanish and English are similar and different, both at the same time. My mom was an immigrant in her 40s and to her last days, spoke with a heavy accent. So I understand the struggle learn a second language, especially later in life.
In 2006 a job brought me to Mexico. I was working for Diamonds International, in Riviera Maya. Now I live in the Riviera Nayarit, another job moved me here and I loved it so much I stayed!
I’ve had so many defining moments since moving to Mexico. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in Mexico City, in heavy rain, at rush- hour, because I didn’t understand the directions given to me… I also couldn’t pronounce the words Cuauhtemoc, Tlaquepaque, and Jacarandas, which were all on my way to work. It was definitely stressful to be in Mexico City, alone, on a bus, and not understanding. It has contributed to my desire to learn, and fast.
After over a decade of living in Mexico, I’m more Mexican now than something else, the daily rhythm, the way we say things, handle problems, negotiate, etc. It made me much more Cabrona than before but also allowed me to express my more feminine, soft side. I love Mexico!
Six years ago I’ve decided to take my Spanish lessons to be a full-time job because my side hobby was so satisfying that my client exploded. I teach mainly to retirees and snowbirds because they are the biggest population here. We work online, both one-on-one and in small conversation groups and I found that combination brings the best results. Plus, you must speak the language, because only reading and writing will bring you 2/3 of the way. The understanding part, especially when people speak fast, is crucial, and can’t happen without YOU SPEAKING. ( Our private classes are off the record and designed to give you the courage to speak).
Facebook is an easy way to reach me:
https://www.facebook.com/MexicanSpanishLessons
Or for more information, you can also go to:
Surviving Mexico 