In the heart of Venezuela, an English teacher named Astrojoc embarked on a journey that would not only transform his career but also impact language learners across continents.
Astrojoc's story began at the British Council, where he honed his teaching skills for nearly six years. During the pandemic, when face-to-face instruction abruptly shifted online, he discovered a passion for digital teaching. "I felt comfortable teaching from home," he recalls. "I could reach people from other countries, other states. That's something I really liked."
When the British Council returned to in-person classes, Astrojoc decided to forge his own path. His love for writing and sharing knowledge led him to X (formerly Twitter), where he began posting short English lessons. His following quickly grew, and soon students were reaching out for personalized instruction.
Learning in Chunks: A Unique Approach
In February 2022, Astrojoc launched his online English teaching business. His unique methodology, inspired by linguist Michael Lewis, focuses on "chunks" – the idea that language is best learned through sequences of words rather than isolated grammar rules.
"Students already know chunks," he explains. "When you say 'good morning,' that's a chunk. I raise their awareness so they can see how chunks happen in real language."
A Platform for Personalized Learning
To make his teaching accessible to a wider audience, Astrojoc created a membership platform on WithMe. The platform offers different tiers, catering to varying levels of commitment and financial investment. Students can access recorded lessons, join live conversation sessions, and even receive one-on-one consultations.
"The one-on-one option is great for people with specific needs," he says. "For example, I have a student who works at a hotel in Mexico and needs to communicate confidently with English-speaking tourists."
Success Stories and a Growing Community
Astrojoc's approach is clearly resonating. He shares inspiring stories of students who have rapidly progressed in their language skills and gained confidence in their abilities. His platform has also fostered a supportive online community, where learners connect with each other and feel heard.
The impact of his work extends beyond language acquisition. By exceeding the income of a typical Venezuelan doctor, Astrojoc has proven that digital entrepreneurship can transcend geographical boundaries and create financial freedom.
Advice for Aspiring Language Teachers
When asked about his advice for other language teachers considering a similar path, Astrojoc is enthusiastic. "Give it a try," he urges. "Creating your own platform allows you to connect with people in a more direct way, and platforms like WithMe make it easier than ever to get started."
He emphasizes the importance of listening to students' feedback and iterating on lessons to provide exactly what learners are looking for. It's a journey of continuous improvement, both for the teacher and the students.
Astrojoc's story is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and the ability of technology to connect people across borders. As he continues to build his online community, he's not just teaching English – he's empowering individuals to unlock new opportunities and transform their lives.
