Leila Ghodrat Jahromi

Year Graduated: 2024
Program/Degree: Teaching English as an Additional Language MEd

I’m an ESL/EAP/LINC educator working with international students, new immigrants, and refugees who are learning English in Canada. I’m also an educational content creator on social media. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games and watching movies and TV series, both of which fuel my creativity and curiosity.

Please tell us how you first discovered your program.

I’ve completed several teacher training courses, such as CELTA and TEFL, but my thirst for understanding current issues in education remained unquenched. I wanted to dive deeper into topics that aligned with my concerns and aspirations. When I came across SFU’s TEAL program, it felt like the perfect fit. I haven’t looked back since—it’s been an enriching journey, with each course offering incredible depth and relevance.

Who is a faculty member you have enjoyed working with and why?

Every faculty member I’ve had the pleasure of learning from at SFU has been outstanding. They consistently encourage students to explore inquiries that are personally meaningful. From my cohort courses with professors like Roumi Ilieva and Ena Lee, who broadened my understanding of complex topics such as “sticky objects,” teacher-student emotions, and translanguaging, to elective courses with Jeannie Kerr, Cher Hill, and Ana Maria Navas Iannini, who guided me into the realm of research methods and lived experiences. I also had the unique opportunity to work as a Research Assistant with Joel Heng Hartse, which was an invaluable experience that deepened my academic and professional growth.

What inspires you to learn and continue your education?

I’m inspired by the process of critical thinking, which allows me to “ask the other question” and challenge my previous beliefs. Being surrounded by professors and classmates who push me to critically examine my practice is a source of constant motivation. This environment encourages growth, reflection, and innovation, for which I am truly grateful.

What would you say to prospective students who are considering graduate school in the Faculty of Education?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—create it! The journey through graduate school will challenge you, but the growth you experience will be transformative. If you’re truly passionate about education, dive in headfirst and don’t be afraid to dream big.

For me, this program wasn’t just about expanding my knowledge—it was about discovering new dimensions of myself as an educator and as a person. I’ve learned that every challenge opens the door to new opportunities and deeper insights.

Education is a powerful tool—never stop believing in the impact and change you can create. And...Remember, if you believe in your potential, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.