Internship at IFL
Although it is now the holiday season, we are very pleased that Palina Salei, a master’s student (now a master of applied English linguistics), completed her internship at the IFL English Language Department during the spring semester. She assisted English language teachers by evaluating student presentations, organizing activities during lectures, and consulting with students who needed additional help. Palina herself describes her internship as follows:
“Stepping into the role of a lecturer for the first time felt both exciting and slightly challenging. Yet from the very beginning, I was welcomed into a supportive environment that encouraged me to explore, grow, and reflect. Throughout the semester, I had the opportunity to design lessons, lead classroom discussions, and engage directly with students- all of which were from a teacher’s side, not a student one. Such a shift in perspective was powerful, as it pushed me to think deeply about pedagogy, student motivation, and the responsibility that comes with facilitating someone else’s learning journey.
One of the greatest parts of this experience was discovering the dynamic, human side of teaching. No two classes were ever the same: each session came with its own challenges, surprises, and small victories. I learned to adapt, to listen, and to appreciate the small moments when teaching noticeably “worked” for someone. This hands-on, real-life experience was not only inspiring but also extremely valuable in shaping my professional path. It gave me confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. I’m truly grateful to have had the chance to contribute to the Institute of Foreign Languages.“
We sincerely thank Palina for her help, energy, and advice to students! We wish her professional and personal success in the future!
