Debi

I have worked as an online Writing Coach for the past 18 years, and I have recently earned a certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Now I'd like to help non-native speakers improve their skills in reading, writing and speaking in English. I love working with people, both in groups and individually, and try hard to create a fun and interactive experience. As an ex-American living in the Netherlands, I understand the desire to communicate effectively in a foreign language, as well as the frustrations that can sometimes come with all the mistakes. But making mistakes is all part of the learning process, and I always try to focus on the positive while gently correcting errors with a smile. As I tell my Dutch-speaking Pilates groups, "Alles is beter met een glimlach!" (Everything is better with a smile!)

I have a BA in English Literature/Creative Writing from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA. After moving to Europe, I began working as an Online Writing Coach, and I have stayed in that position for the last 18 years. I also give Pilates and Chair Yoga classes (in person and in Dutch) here in the Netherlands. I have won several awards for my poetry, which has been published online and in literary journals both in the US and Europe.