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• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn it?

  I speak this language fluently thanks to my origins. It is a language that has been part of my daily life since childhood, and I was fortunate enough to be immersed in it from a young age. However, I also had the opportunity to perfect my skills through studies that allowed me to continually improve.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  The character I would name as the emblematic representative of Italian culture is Alberto Manzi, a teacher, writer, and television host, who became a significant figure in education in Italy. Through his famous show "Non è mai troppo tardi" (It's Never Too Late), broadcast in the 1960s, Maestro Manzi managed to reach a wide audience, particularly illiterate adults or those who had left school too early, offering them a chance to learn and discover the joy of learning. He perfectly embodies the idea of sharing knowledge and the importance of education for all, regardless of one's background. Manzi also represents the deeply Italian values of solidarity, respect for others, and the significance of the human aspect of learning. He succeeded in giving a voice and an opportunity to thousands of people to thrive intellectually and improve their lives. His approach, both simple and warm, aligns well with Italian culture, which values human relationships and the transmission of knowledge. Alberto Manzi is therefore a model of culture, pedagogy, and generosity, and remains a key figure in Italy's cultural and educational landscape.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  The expression that particularly amuses me in Italian culture is "conosco i miei polli," which literally translates to "I know my chickens." This expression is used to say that you know the people you interact with well, that you know what to expect from them, and that you understand them perfectly, often in a context where someone is trying to hide their intentions. It is both a funny and clever way to express that you aren't easily fooled and that you've got a good read on the people you're talking to. This expression reflects both Italian humor and the pragmatic, sometimes cunning, spirit of the culture. What I like is that this phrase often comes up in lighthearted conversations, giving a casual tone.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Italian is important on several levels. Academically, it grants access to a rich literary, artistic, and philosophical tradition, with essential works. Professionally, it is an asset in fields like fashion, design, gastronomy, and art, offering opportunities in industries where Italy excels. Personally, it enriches the travel experience, helps one better understand Italian culture, and allows for a fuller appreciation of its music, films, and cuisine. In short, Italian opens many doors, both culturally and professionally.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  The main difficulty in Italian lies in grammar, particularly the conjugations and agreements, which can be complex, as well as oral comprehension due to the diversity of accents and dialects found across Italy. Each region has its own variations, which can make the language challenging to follow at first. However, the positive side of Italian is that it follows relatively regular grammatical rules compared to other languages, making learning easier once these rules are mastered. Additionally, the pronunciation is relatively simple for a beginner, and Italian is a very musical language, which helps in remembering words and structures.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  An anecdote that comes to mind dates back to my early years as a teacher. One day, a student who had always had trouble concentrating in class surprised me by presenting a project in Italian, perfectly structured, which he had prepared as homework. He explained that he had watched an Italian film and decided to analyze it to improve his understanding of the language. It was a real moment of pride for me because it showed not only that he had made progress but also that he had found a personal and motivating way to learn. It reminded me that teaching, beyond rules and lessons, is also about inspiring curiosity and independence in students.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  I have had the chance to travel to fascinating places, both in Europe and the United States. Each country I've visited has left a lasting impression with its beauty and culture. France and Italy amazed me with their history and cuisine. Scandinavia impressed me with its breathtaking natural landscapes. In Central Europe, Prague and Budapest captivated me with their unique architecture and atmosphere. In the United States, New York fascinated me with its energy, and national parks like Grand Teton and Bryce Canyon offered stunning landscapes and an immersive nature experience. These travels enriched my worldview and inspired me to share these discoveries.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What sets me apart is my ability to adapt my teaching methods to the specific needs of each student. I take pride in creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment where my students feel comfortable and motivated to progress. My experience, patience, and passion for teaching make me a Superprof!