Paul Erickson
English Language Institute Instructor
Welcome to the English language Institute. My goal is to help you learn English within an American context. At a time when there are more people who speak English as a second or third language than as a first, it is important to learn where so many of the funny but common expressions originate.
My passion for teaching English started in a small village in east Africa. I was 18 and on my own trying to learn Somali. It was a frustrating process that forced me to consider the difficulties of being a language learner. It was humbling to know things without being able to communicate them. It was scary to travel alone without being able to read signs or ask for directions. It was also exciting because every day was a chance to improve and get better.
Since that time I have been a banker, a stockbroker, a financial planner, and a teacher. I married an incredibly talented woman and we have five children and a dog. I have taught briefly in classrooms in Dubai, Djibouti, Jordan, and Milwaukee. I love teaching both inside and outside of the classroom.
I consider my students to be my friends and I am available to help both in and out of the classroom.