Meaghan Olsen
About
If you have come across my page then that means you are looking to learn or enhance a skill. First off, YAY! That's so exciting, and I'm honored to be considered as a teacher in your journey.
I have spent most of my life cultivating skills that are central to my passions in life: the pursuit of knowledge, love of art and the outdoors, a love for teaching and sharing that with others. Below I have listed what services I offer (more in-depth information for each service listed separately):
+ Spanish Lessons
+ English (as a second language) Lessons
+ Yoga Classes (private, group sessions)
+ Dance Lessons (Latin dance; private, group sessions)
Highlights
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Depending on your area of focus, I tailor each lesson to the individual. I very much believe about meeting my students where they are at, and building upon a solid foundation. Everyone has a different style of learning, so knowing what works best for you is step one, and then we move forward from there!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Below I have listed my credentials/experience pertaining to each service I offer:
Spanish Lessons
+ B.As in Spanish Language and Literature, and International Studies with a Latin American focus from the University of Missouri (graduated December 2013)
+ Studied abroad in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain in 2013
+ Served as a Bilingual Classroom Aid through CIEE: Teach in Spain in La Bañeza, Castilla y León, Spain in 2016 (working in two secondary education schools, ages 10-18yo). Tutored students separately for additional help in ESL studies.
+ Travelled/lived in a variety of Spanish-speaking countries, with extensive experience in cultural practices and social languaging.
+ Available for online lessons or in-person (depending on location)
English Lessons
+ Native English speaker
+ See above credentials for experience teaching English as a Second Language in Spain*
+ Served as a tutor and program coordinator for Centro Latino, an NGO focusing on education, health and culture for our local Latino community.
+ Available for online lessons or in-person (depending on location)
Yoga Classes
+ 200hr Certified Yoga Instructor (RYI) through School Yoga Institute in Peru (graduated December 2018)
+ Specializes in Hatha and Vinyasa Flow
+ Available for privates and group lessons, ranging from novice/beginner to experienced yogi looking to enhance their practice
Dance Lessons
+ I have taught and performed Latin dance across the US and internationally since 2010
+ Studied classical ballet (Cecchetti method), modern (Horton, Graham technique), and African dance (West African).
+ I focus mainly on street style in the following dances (salsa on1, salsa on2/mambo, bachata, merengue, cha cha, cumbia), specializing in partnerwork, footwork, musicality, choreography, connection.
+ Available for privates, couples, and group lessons
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing varies depending on the service offered. Please email me for specific rates!
How did you get started teaching?
I fell in love with teaching when I began Latin dance. Sharing this passion with my students and seeing them light up when the steps came together was the greatest gift. Since then, I have been blessed to grow in other areas and offer instruction across multiple fields. Teaching and watching others grow is truly a blessing.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students across all experience levels. From complete beginner to advanced/pro, I adapt my teaching style to serve the specific need of each individual.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Know your learning style, do your research and ask questions! Make sure that the teacher you choose is dedicated to fulfilling your needs and has a clear idea of how you learn best and can provide that for you.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
+ Identify your learning style and vocalize that to your instructor (they are working for you!)
+ Clarify your needs (short-term goals, long-term goals, what you are wanting to gain from taking lessons)
+ Be open-minded and give yourself grace (learning a new skill is hard, even harder when you defeat yourself. Stay open to new experiences and loving with yourself as you start a new path of learning!)