This is the sixth interview in our thought-leadership series featuring teachers at 51Talk.
Tequesta, please tell us about your educational background.
I graduated from Everest University in Tampa, Florida, where I earned a Master of Science in Business Administration. My formal education provided a strong foundation in organization and communication that I have carried into my teaching and writing careers.
How did you land the role at 51Talk?
Teaching has been a passion of mine from the very beginning of my career. I loved interacting with children and found it deeply rewarding to see their faces light up when they learned something new or enjoyed a lesson. After a long career in the public school system, I retired from the district in 2012 to focus on another passion: writing. Between 2008 and 2016 I published nine books, which was a wonderful creative period for me. Still, I missed the classroom and wanted a way to teach while maintaining a flexible schedule that allowed me to write.
I researched online teaching companies and found 51Talk among the top options. Their emphasis on both students and teachers stood out to me. The interview process was straightforward and informative. During my demo lesson I felt confident and simply enjoyed teaching, and when they offered me a position I felt like I had found a long-term fit. Teaching online with 51Talk has allowed me to combine my love of education and writing while reaching learners across the globe.
What are two things you find most rewarding about teaching for 51Talk?
There are many rewarding aspects to working with 51Talk, but two stand out above all: a sense of purpose and the meaningful relationships I build with students. Teaching, to me, is a calling. Every lesson is an opportunity to help a student grow—academically and personally. Knowing that a student understood a concept, had fun in class, and gained confidence gives me immense satisfaction.
Second, the relationships formed with repeat students are incredibly special. I see some students up to four times a week, and watching them progress over time is one of the greatest joys of online teaching. Being able to teach from home while connecting with children from another country is powerful. Teachers are remembered by their students for a lifetime, and being part of that influence—alongside parents—helps students move toward their goals.
You have authored nine books. Can you tell us a bit about them and how they relate to your work at 51Talk?
My interest in writing began early. At about eight years old I created my first book for a school assignment, and my teacher was impressed that I had written my own story. That experience set me on a path where writing became a key part of my life. I retired from the school district to pursue writing full time and published nine books between 2008 and 2016. Writing has allowed me to share ideas, inspire readers, and explore creative storytelling.
As a 51Talk teacher, being a published author helps me connect with students who may be reluctant readers. I strive to make reading assignments engaging and enjoyable, showing students how books can expand imagination and vocabulary. I explain that reading is not only useful for school but also opens possibilities—students might be inspired to become engineers, astronauts, or authors themselves. Writing encourages creativity and helps learners develop the language skills necessary to communicate effectively in English.
Can you share a memorable classroom experience that highlights what makes your work at 51Talk rewarding?
Every class brings something different, but one trial lesson stands out. A very young student was extremely shy and kept hiding behind his mother, refusing to engage with the camera. His mother encouraged him, but he would not respond. I focused on making the session lively and approachable, using simple prompts and encouragement. Gradually I heard him whisper and repeat after me. A few minutes later he sat forward and spoke more clearly. By the end of the lesson he was confidently answering and even shouting out his responses with enthusiasm. Seeing that transformation—from hiding in his mother’s shirt to actively participating—was incredibly rewarding. Small breakthroughs like that remind me why I love teaching.
Some educators are hesitant to teach online. What advice would you give to teachers considering joining 51Talk?
I understand the hesitation, but online teaching is highly rewarding in many ways. First, one-on-one online lessons give students your undivided attention, which is ideal for language learning. This focused interaction accelerates progress and builds confidence. Second, online teaching offers flexibility: you can teach from home and choose hours that fit your schedule, making it easier to balance work and personal projects like writing.
Finally, by teaching English online you help learners achieve long-term goals and open doors to future opportunities. If you are passionate about teaching and willing to adapt to digital tools, online platforms like 51Talk can be an enriching professional experience.
Anything else you’d like to share?
51Talk has given me an opportunity I deeply appreciate. Each morning when I log into my first class I feel glad to be teaching and excited for the day. Seeing students smile while they learn makes me proud to be a 51Talk teacher. Teaching online has renewed my sense of purpose and allowed me to continue contributing to students’ growth while maintaining a life that supports my creative work.
Interested in learning more about teaching for 51Talk? Visit the 51Talk website for more information.