Leopoldo Gonzalez
Meet Leopoldo Gonzalez-Barajas - Georgetown Ph.D. Candidate & Expert Spanish Tutor
Leopoldo Gonzalez-Barajas is a Ph.D. Candidate in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies at Georgetown University, where he currently serves as a Graduate Student Instructor. With extensive experience teaching all levels of Spanish to undergraduate and adult learners, Leopoldo specializes in delivering conversational, literature-based, and grammar-focused lessons while providing individually-tailored feedback to ensure student success.
Areas of Expertise:
Spanish (All levels: Grammar, Conversational, Literature)
Spanish & Latin American Literature and Cultural Studies
Research Project Guidance
Oral Proficiency Exam Preparation
Writing & Editing (in Spanish and English)
Teaching Philosophy:
"My approach is to create a dynamic learning environment where students can engage with Spanish through conversation, literature, and structured grammar. I believe in providing individually-tailored oral and written feedback to help each student master the language and confidently tackle everything from oral exams to research projects."
What Makes Leopoldo Special:
Top-Tier Academic Credentials: He is currently a Doctor of Philosophy candidate in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies at Georgetown University.
Trilingual Proficiency: He is a native Spanish speaker with near-native proficiency in English and advanced proficiency in Italian.
Extensive Teaching Experience: He has taught Spanish to undergraduate students at both Georgetown University and Syracuse University. He has also taught intensive grammar classes to adult students at a correctional facility.
Proficiency in Language Assessment: He has served as a Spanish Oral Proficiency Exam Evaluator, conducting multiple exams and applying a consistent rubric to assess students' speaking abilities.
Content-Based Instruction: Leopoldo prepares and delivers lessons that are based on literature, grammar, and conversation, encouraging a holistic understanding of the language.
Holistic Student Support: He assesses students, provides tailored oral and written feedback, and guides them through research projects and presentations.
Journalistic Background: His past experience as a journalist and editor for El Pitazo and Poderopedia Venezuela provides him with a strong command of written language and a deep understanding of current events.
Education & Achievements:
· Doctor of Philosophy in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies (in progress), Georgetown University
· Master of Science in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies, Georgetown University
· Master of Arts in Spanish Language, Literature and Culture, Syracuse University
· Bachelor in Social Communications, Central University of Venezuela
· Graduate Student Instructor, Georgetown University (2021-Present)