Thomas your English is so good. How did you learn it?

Well, in my country everyone has to take English starting in the first grade. I've been taking English courses for 12 years now.

Wow, that's interesting. I remember when we took that trip last year and visited your family. It seemed like there weren't many people that could speak with me in English.

Oh, that's because they don't speak English that much.

But they speak it in school, right? Maybe they just didn't like me so they didn't want to talk to me.

No, actually they liked you a lot. They told me they thought you were very nice. They are just shy. They're not use to talking with foreigners. I remember when I first came to the U.S. I was really nervous about speaking with people.

I see. I thought there were lots of Americans teaching English in your country.

Yes, that's true. There are probably twice as many now as there were five years ago, but they are mostly in the cities. My family lives in the country.

I wonder why. Personally I prefer the country to the city. It's so quiet and peaceful. If I were to teach, I would want to teach in the country.

Do you think you would want to teach someday? I know the schools around my town are looking for teachers, so if you want I can call them and get more information.

No, I don't think so. I would need to stay there for a year, and I don't think I can take that much time off work.

Well, if you change your mind, let me know. I think you would be a really great teacher.