​My Story

Pamina Elchoueri-Lascano

My journey of teaching began 10 years ago when I stumbled upon a teaching opportunity at a language program. I have a linguistic background in bilingual English/German, conversational French, and some knowledge of Italian and Arabic.
My Story
​From an early age on I was fascinated by the way languages and cultures connected globally. My passion for teaching English as a second language prompted me to delve deeper into the field of linguistics. One Google search led me to Columbia University's Teachers College TESOL Certificate Program, which jump-started my career.
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Teaching at Columbia University opened doors for me not only professionally, but also to a world of helping students learn and grow, and to reach their full potential. I further honed my skills once I was accepted to the TESOL Masters Program at Teachers College, Columbia University. I connected deeply with my students through the power of language, and through our teacher-student relationships, they have been able to master their goals. Teaching ESL for me is not a one-way street, and I'm grateful to all of my students for providing me with the learning experiences that allow me to constantly adjust my curriculum to meet evolving ESL trends.

The concept of teaching not only encompasses the importance of guiding students to reach their full potential, but to also cultivate relationships with students as individuals who have goals and dreams that can be achieved through the power of language.​
​​Academic & Professional Credentials
Education and Certifications:
  • Columbia University, Teachers College M.A. TESOL 2020
  • Columbia University, Teachers College TESOL Certificate 2018
  • Best Plus Certified 2021
  • Pace University 2016 B.A. Communication
Professional Credentials:
  • United Nations ESL Instructor 2022-Present
  • Private ELA/ESL & Language Tutor:  7+ years
  • Columbia University Teachers College Mentor 2023
  • Columbia University ESL Instructor 2018 - 2020
  • St. Peter's University ESL Instructor 2020 - 2023
  • Various language consultancy firms: 2+ years
  • Kaplan Part-time ESL Instructor 2021 - 2022
​Guest Speaker Appearances
  • Columbia University, Teachers College TCP Workshop - July 2021
  • AL/TESOL Roundtable Columbia University - 2022
  • Prepared university-level students for a private discussion with Justice Sonia Sotomayor - 2023
​My Approach
​My approach is holistic in which I apply the Communicative Language Approach to my lessons, as well as cater each lesson towards my client's needs. 
Testimonials

What My Clients Are Saying

​I had an excellent experience with Pamina as an ESL student and later in professional projects and coaching for advanced pronunciation. Pamina reunites all skills that allowed me to reach a higher level of confidence in English communications.
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​- Vinícius Zirondi​
Pamina is very professional, well-prepared, patient and friendly. She always is prepared with a lot of interactive material so that you can learn better. She verified my English level and kept focusing on improving it during the classes. She is effective at explaining things and correct your mistakes while talking with you. The classes with Pamina have a positive atmosphere, and they were very interactive with grammar, speaking, listening, and writing. She´s always available to help and her English tips helped me a lot.
- Milton Santiago Mayorga
Pamina was my teacher and tutor for a semester at Columbia University. During this time, I was able to improve my speaking and listening skills. This helped me with real-life conversations. Pamina is efficient, her teaching method is effective, and most importantly, she is kind, encouraging, and helpful in the classroom. I recommend Pamina without hesitation to anyone looking to improve their English skills.
- Yeliz Maunaci