Kamila Jančíková: Just be yourself

On the occasion of our Teachers’ Day 2025, we asked Kamila Jančíková, one of the speakers, a few questions. Read her answers below.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and your expertise?

I’ve been teaching English and German for almost 20 years. Too long? Or still not enough? Well, the greatest benefit of doing this job for such a long time is the experience you gain. I have taught thousands and thousands of classes of various levels, both general or business-oriented, or even very specific tailor-made courses. I love the flexibility of the job and meeting new people. Some of my students have even become my friends.

Recently, I have started teaching creative writing too. Writing is my passion and something I burn for from the bottom of my heart.

Otherwise, I am also in charge of marketing and social media of the school and you can read me in newsletters, many blogs, all the posts and lots of other things under the Bridge brand. I also write poetry and my own texts, which you can find on Linkedin.

What are you going to talk about at the conference? How do you think the audience will benefit from your insights?

My workshop is on creative writing, so we will deal with creativity, some ideas for writing activities in class, and of course, we are going to write. Because the only way how to start writing is simply to start writing. And I hope we will have fun.

Do you recall any particular experience or aha-moment that you have had recently in terms of teaching or learning?

There have been so many moments during my teaching career I am so thankful for. When you see you enabled a change in people’s lives and opened new horizons for them, that is a very rewarding feeling. I had a student I started having classes with when she was eight years old. We were learning together for ten years. She went to study to the US and when she had her university graduation, her dad sent me a video with the following comment: “It is thanks to you. You have contributed to all this.” It was one of the most moving moments ever and I think this is what teaching is about. Touching souls of people and give them wings through the language.

What are you working on/learning at the moment?

I am finishing the story for the crowdfunding campaign for my first poetry book, which I hope I will launch even before the conference starts. I learn something new everyday, either in terms of graphic design, communication with my colleagues or my own capacity to do things. And I am learning to paint.

If you were supposed to give only a single piece of advice to fresh graduates who start their teaching path, what would it be?

Teaching is connecting with people. The language is a bridge. You are a bridge, too. Believe in yourself and teach as much as you can. Confidence comes with practice. And last but not least, have fun. Just be yourself.

Thank you.

You can meet Kamila Jančíková at our Teachers’ Day 2025.