Meet Italian Teacher Mia Pezzanite

Meet Mia Pezzanite, an Italian teacher at Fluent City in DC

How did you learn Italian?

I learned Italian in Rome! I moved there for college to study the Classics and Latin, but after my first week of Italian classes, I quickly changed my major to Italian Studies.

** How did you start using Italian outside the classroom?**

Since I was living in Italy, it wasn't hard – I could use it everywhere. The best and quickest way to improve my Italian outside the classroom was an Italian boyfriend and his family who collectively spoke no English.

** What is your favorite thing about teaching at Fluent City?**

I really enjoy the students and other teachers! It's a great group of people who are passionate about languages.

What fun hobbies do you have outside of teaching at Fluent City?

I love hockey and I'm an avid Washington Capitals fan. To be clear, I'm no fair-weather fan – I've been following them since birth! I also love live music of just about any type.

Do you have a favorite app or tool your recommend to students to complement their studies?

I usually recommend that students download WordReference on the first day – most don't listen though! Once students are a little more advanced, I like to suggest News in Slow Italian.

Where is your favorite place to find Italian food in DC?

Italian food in DC can be very underwhelming, especially if you're looking for something “traditional.” If you're looking for a DELICIOUS modern/American take on Italy's classic pasta dishes, then you have to go to Red Hen (YUM!). Be sure to start off your evening the Italian way with their Aperol Spirtz aperitivo.

Can you recommend an Italian film?

This is always such a hard question! I love a lot of Gabriele Salvatores' films: Io no ho paura for the drama/suspense lovers, Happy Family for the dramedy genre, Mediterraneo for comedy. For a younger view of the world, Turkish director Ferzan Ozpetek's films are great: Mine vaganti, Magnifica presenza, Le fate ignoranti.

Finally, what is your favorite Italian word?

Arrangiarsi: to make do, to get by. The English definition doesn't quite express all of the facets of this word. “Getting by” is almost negative in English, but in Italian, arrangiarsi usually implies a sense of artistry and skill.

Think you have what it takes to teach at Fluent City? Apply here to teach with us!