Susana Zody, an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor from the Adult Education Division, received recognition from Academic Affairs as the 2020 Adjunct Instructor of the Year for Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC).

Zody, a native of Peru, said her job is rewarding, because it changes lives and helps many immigrants learn to navigate themselves through American society.

“I try to use all possible means for them to learn. I use my psychology knowledge to help them because I know they are frightened, without the language, no jobs, or even don’t know how to drive,” she said.

Zody is well-educated and was a psychologist in her native country, and said like many other foreign professionals she had to start over due to language limitations. She values each day as an opportunity to learn.

“I try to learn something new every day to innovate my class, and give them the best I can,” she said.

Zody’s “best” is actually a well-rounded set of experiences. As someone who emigrated from South America, learned English in a non-native structure, enrolled in courses at CGTC, volunteered in her current role, she is well-equipped to support the challenges her students will face.

“When they are with me, I try to make them feel comfortable, welcome, and supporting them to trust in themselves and try new things because I know the experience to immigrate to another country, the cultural shock and the difficulties of starting a new life,” Zody said.

Zody is currently taking courses at the College to improve her writing and learn more English vocabulary. In her spare time, she is a Zumba instructor, and at her church, she translates services from English to Spanish.

Zody resides in Warner Robins with her husband and two cats.