Meet Konstancja Szymanska | Educator, Speaker and University Instructor for Intercultural Communication Topics

We had the good fortune of connecting with Konstancja Szymanska and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Konstancja, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
At the Intensive English Institute at Florida Atlantic University, we take great pride in the positive social impact our business has on the community and the world. Our core mission revolves around empowering individuals to unlock new opportunities through enhanced English language skills. We believe that language proficiency is a key factor in fostering communication, understanding, and collaboration across borders. By providing intensive English language courses, our institute contributes significantly to building confidence among individuals when it comes to speaking English and recognizing intercultural differences. We understand that effective communication is not just a skill; it’s a gateway to personal and professional growth. Many individuals face barriers and limitations due to language barriers, and we are committed to breaking down those walls. Furthermore, our impact goes beyond individual development; it extends to broadening horizons. English is a global language, and proficiency opens doors to a myriad of opportunities, whether in education, career advancement, or cultural exchange. By facilitating language acquisition, we enable our students and clients to broaden their perspectives and participate more actively in the global community. In essence, our business at the Intensive English Institute is not just about language education; it’s about empowering individuals to reach their full potential, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and contributing to a more interconnected and harmonious world. We believe that investing in language skills is an investment in people, and the positive ripple effects of our work are felt both locally and globally.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I appreciate the opportunity to share my career journey with you. As a former international student originally from Poland, I bring a unique perspective to my professional endeavors. Being bilingual, I intimately understand the challenges that individuals face when navigating a new language and culture. This has shaped my passion for helping students and clients who do not speak English as their first language. My journey to where I am today has been marked by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. It wasn’t necessarily an easy path, but overcoming challenges has been a defining aspect of my professional growth. I pursued my academic journey with a keen focus on language-related issues, culminating in writing a dissertation on foreign language anxiety among international students. This research deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by individuals navigating linguistic and cultural transitions. One key aspect that sets me apart is my ability to connect with students and clients on a personal level. Being bilingual allows me to empathize with the struggles and triumphs of those learning a new language. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of language proficiency in unlocking opportunities and building confidence. The road to building resiliency, especially in the context of language acquisition, is indeed complex. Through my experiences, I’ve learned that patience, adaptability, and a growth mindset are crucial. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning has been a guiding principle in my professional journey. What I want the world to know about me and my career is that my work is driven by a genuine passion for empowering individuals through language. I believe in creating inclusive and supportive environments where everyone, regardless of their linguistic background, can thrive. In essence, my career is not just about language education; it’s about fostering resilience, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and creating pathways for individuals to reach their full potential. I am excited about the impact I can continue to make in the lives of those I work with, and I look forward to contributing to a more interconnected and enriched global community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For an incredible week exploring South Florida with my best friend or a family member, we would start in Boca Raton, savoring diverse international cuisines and soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches. Then, we’d venture to Miami for a cultural day of museums, art, and lively nightlife. Delray Beach would be next, with shopping along Atlantic Avenue and seaside dining, as well as long walks on the beach. Finally, we’d escape to Jupiter for a nice getaway, exploring nature reserves and enjoying waterfront dining.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A heartfelt shoutout to my family, the incredible international team, professional and academic mentors, and the broader international community. My success is indebted to their unwavering support, diverse perspectives, guidance, and enriching collaborations. Grateful for each of them playing a pivotal role in my journey.

Instagram: konstancja_szymanska

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konstancja-szymanska-6b38121a8/

Image Credits
Allsnap Media, LLC