Have you ever wondered what it feels like to meet some of your online students in person? Educator Heather Pence, a teacher for 51Talk, recently attended an event that brought her closer to the students she teaches online. On August 15, 2017, 51Talk brought top students from China to New York City to compete in an English competition called The 51Talk Star Final. The contest took place at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), where participants demonstrated their English skills in a public, academic setting. Each student was accompanied by one or both parents for support. Below, Heather shares her impressions and reflections on the experience.
1. How long have you been working for 51Talk and what has it been like for you?
I began working part time for 51Talk at the end of January. Overall, the experience has been extremely positive. My background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management, a Master’s degree in Childhood Education, and state certification to teach grades 1–6. I previously held a tenured position as an elementary classroom teacher, but now I stay at home with my young children. Teaching online with 51Talk has given me a meaningful way to continue my profession without leaving home. The flexibility of this role has been one of its greatest advantages, allowing me to balance professional work with family time while still delivering quality instruction to students across the globe.
2. Can you describe the competition from your perspective as a teacher? How did it feel to see the students competing in New York?
Seeing the students perform live was a moving and inspiring experience. Every student I observed displayed impressive confidence and language ability, and the parents were clearly proud and deeply supportive. The company organized a polished, exciting event, and the families who attended were gracious and enthusiastic. Watching these young learners in person stirred strong emotions and a renewed commitment in me to invest time and energy in my students. The event also highlighted the unique opportunities online teaching can create—opportunities I might not have experienced as a traditional classroom teacher, such as a guided tour of the NYSE and a front-row view of an international educational showcase.
3. How do you think this competition benefited the students academically, culturally, and socially?
The competition offered multiple benefits across academic, cultural, and social dimensions. Academically, students were able to showcase their English proficiency in a high-stakes, public environment, which can boost confidence and motivate continued study. Culturally, the trip to New York exposed families and students to a major global city and a landmark institution, broadening their perspectives beyond the classroom. Socially, participants had the chance to meet judges, interact with other families in person, and form connections with peers who share similar goals and interests. For many families, the event was an enriching cultural exchange that strengthened bonds and created memorable experiences. This personal interaction helped distinguish 51Talk’s community-driven approach to online education by adding a tangible, real-world element to virtual learning.
4. What are two key takeaways you’d like to share about this experience with other teachers?
First, recognize and respect the cultural differences and strong parental involvement you will encounter when teaching students from another country. The commitment and passion demonstrated by the parents at this event were palpable—they push their children because they want them to succeed, and their encouragement plays a vital role in student progress. Second, appreciate the unique opportunities online teaching provides. Teaching remotely allows you to learn about different cultures, exchange meaningful experiences with students and families, and discover common ground despite geographic distance. Whenever your company offers events or chances to engage beyond the virtual classroom, consider participating. Attending these events can deepen your connections, enhance professional growth, and give you fresh motivation for your teaching practice.
You may also like the following articles:
51Talk Students From China Visit NYSE To Compete In English
How this Teacher is Finding True Joy in Her Profession: A Chat with Ariel from 51Talk
How to Build an Online Professional Learning Community Through Respect
Want to learn more about teaching for 51Talk? Visit the official 51Talk website for more information about teaching opportunities, application steps, and teacher resources.