Tien
Hey there! Welcome to SpeakTexan!
I have worked with English learners of all ages and skill levels over the past two decades in a variety of settings, from a classroom in Shanghai and corporate meeting rooms to Zoom sessions and the Austin Public Library. Regardless of where we sit down to practice English, I focus entirely on my speaking partner because I believe there is no replacement for authentic human connection while both teaching and learning.
My communication style is energetic, empathetic and curiosity-driven, influenced deeply by my time spent working in both public relations and early childhood education. What’s more, I hold a university degree in English Literature and an internationally-recognized certification for Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Working together, I help you grow comfortable and confident across a wide range of communication skills while ensuring our sessions are fun, low-pressure and specific to your goals.
If you have questions or would like to arrange an in-person English practice session with me, please send an email to tien(at)speaktexan.com or fill out the form below.
Services
Coffee/Tea Chat
“So how’ve you been doin’?”
A relaxed and generally unstructured hour-long conversation on topics you choose either in advance or “on the fly”, held in a comfortable and convenient public place such as a local cafe, library, park, etc. Think of me as your patient, non-judgmental and very curious friend who can’t wait to hear about your day and offer thoughtful answers to your questions.
The goal of a coffee chat is mainly to practice fluency (ease while communicating clearly with relatively few pauses or hesitations) over accuracy (correctly applying language systems such as grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation). The vast majority of native English speakers are more fluent than they are accurate while talking with each other!
Walk and Talk
“Oh my goodness, this is so cool, come look at this! What do you think?”
Some people think (and speak) better on their feet! We can visit a local museum, “window shop” along the storefronts in the Domain, or even chat while looking for ingredients at HEB, Trader Joe’s or HMart. A changing environment as we have a free-flowing conversation ensures that there’s always something to discuss and new vocabulary to learn together. Additionally, if you’re feeling bold, I can help coach you through everyday interactions with strangers we encounter on the street or in the store.
Specific Settings & Situations
“Hi there, I’d like to make an appointment for my son, please. Do you have any open times next week?”
Many people feel anxious about calling for a dentist appointment, meeting with their child’s teacher, giving a presentation at work or ordering at a restaurant, so let’s practice these types of situations in English together. Depending on the topic, we will use authentic materials whenever possible to simulate a realistic scenario and review useful phrases, idioms and culturally appropriate body language to communicate effectively.
Policies
Session Scheduling
Please contact Jennifer or Tien directly by email to schedule language practice sessions, make changes to plans and ask specific questions
One-on-one SpeakTexan English practice sessions are typically 1–2 hours long, depending on the scheduled activity and any travel time required. Special arrangements can be made in advance for group practice sessions, topic-specific conversation workshops, etc
Please arrive on time and let your coach know if you are running late. If you are more than 15 minutes late without notifying us, the session will count as a no-show, and the full session fee applies.
Cancellation & Rescheduling
- We try to offer as much flexibility as possible, so we simply ask for 24 hour notice if you want to cancel a session. If you would like to reschedule a session, we will do our best to find a time that works for everyone.
- If you wish to receive a refund after cancelling a session (at least 24 hours beforehand), please send an email requesting one directly to Tien or Jennifer
Payment for Services
Jennifer and Tien each handle their own billing and payment collection, so will communicate with you directly about their hourly rates and payment procedure as part of the scheduling process.
Payment is generally expected before a session takes place. If your session extends longer than the original time planned, you will be billed for the extra time as appropriate.
Courtesy and Comfort
Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to change, reschedule or cancel a session.
While we encourage warm conversations, open-mindedness and good humor in all our sessions, we expect everyone to show respect and kindness.
Respect everyone’s time and energy by following the policies and procedures described above–if you have questions, just ask!
