A world of learners. One smart step at a time.

THE PERSON BEHIND SMARTSNAIL

Hello, I’m Honey.
A teacher. A learner. A guide.

Education is personal. My own journey with English taught me how much it matters to feel understood.

Honey Rajaei
Honey Rajaei

Teaching with experience.
Leading with empathy.

Honey holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from Trinity Western University, with a focus on educational leadership, and a Bachelor of English Literature. Her work spans ESL, English for Academic Purposes, English for Specific Purposes, exam preparation, curriculum development, and instructor mentoring.

Her résumé describes more than ten years in education and over four years in leadership and supervision, with a commitment to inclusive, strengths-based teaching.

At ten years old, Honey moved with her family to India and entered an English-medium international school. The language barrier felt overwhelming. Three years at Saint Joseph helped turn that challenge into a lasting love of English—and eventually, a teaching career.

Explore her experience

IN HONEY’S WORDS

I am my beliefs!

I have always embraced the mindset of being a perpetual learner. One quote that resonates deeply with me is: "The more I learn, the less I know." This profound truth keeps me grounded and fuels my curiosity. To believe that we have mastered everything is perhaps the greatest illusion we can impose upon ourselves. This understanding has been a driving force throughout my journey as an educator.

At the heart of my teaching philosophy is a firm belief that learning should be a dynamic, inclusive, and transformative experience. I design my lessons around learner-centered approaches that encourage students to explore, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. My classrooms—whether in-person, online, or blended—are spaces where students feel safe, heard, and empowered.

I actively employ experiential learning techniques, project-based assessments, and collaborative tasks to ensure that knowledge is not only acquired but also applied in real-world contexts. Particularly in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP), I help students connect language learning to their personal, academic, and professional goals. This is especially critical in the context of Communication studies, where clarity of thought, intercultural understanding, and effective expression shape the foundation of meaningful interactions.

I believe in motivating students to find what truly inspires them—to discover what keeps them learning. As educators, we must recognize that education is not just about transmitting knowledge but about nurturing self-awareness, purpose, and social responsibility. I encourage my students to live fully, be curious about cultures and traditions, and explore how language shapes identity and perspective. After all, the words we choose and the ways we communicate tell stories far beyond the literal.

Being an educator is, to me, an invitation to grow alongside my students. I share what I know with passion, yet remain open to what I don’t know—with humility. My aim is not to be the authority in the room but a co-learner, mentor, and guide. I lead with empathy, flexibility, and a deep respect for diversity.

In essence, I am a devoted learner and teacher—committed to innovation, authenticity, and human connection in education. I continuously seek opportunities to expand my knowledge, reflect on my practice, and enhance student engagement.

For further insights into my personality and working style, please feel free to review my Birkman self-report test, available via the button below.

My story as a teacher begins here!

It all began with a pivotal decision made by my father, which ultimately ignited my passion for the English language and teaching.

Around 15 years ago, my father made the choice to further his studies in the field of History, prompting our entire family to embark on a journey of immigration to India. At the tender age of 10, I found myself with no other option but to embrace this new chapter of my life, enrolling in an international school where all subjects were taught in English.

Initially, I struggled and shed tears, feeling overwhelmed by the language barrier. I would sometimes seek solace in seclusion, attempting to hide my inability to even spell a single word in English. However, this phase didn't last long.

In short, India holds a significant place in my heart. It was during my three-year stint at Saint Joseph, a Christian school in India, that my passion and fascination for the English language truly blossomed.

Following this newfound interest, I made the decision to pursue a Bachelor's degree in English language and literature at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad.

As an ambitious student yearning to achieve financial independence, I sought opportunities aligned with my educational background, with a dual aim of satisfying my personal aspirations and contributing to society. Consequently, I began my career as an English teacher at Zabangostar Language Institute (ZLI) and later collaborated with Shayan Language Academy (SLA) as an English Instructor for adult learners.

This serves as a brief introduction to my journey as an English instructor. To delve deeper into my studies and experiences, I invite you to click on "Studies and Experiences" for a more comprehensive understanding

here is a picture of my primary school in India.

I tried to fit in and be nice to everyone.

Those years were Challenging, but fun indeed.

Find me if you can!

Honey’s primary school in India · St. Joseph’s, Mysore, 2007–08
Honey’s primary school in India · St. Joseph’s, Mysore, 2007–08

Read Honey’s Birkman self-report

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