Teacher Feature: Brandon Lambert

Brandon Lambert is a Middlebury Institute MA TESOL graduate and a current adjunct English instructor for the Institute’s Intensive English Programs and Custom Language Services.

Mr. Lambert did not always envision himself in the field of language instruction; it was his proclivity for diverse and meaningful work that led him to it.  For years, Mr. Lambert pursued professional experience in political science and the performing arts.  He obtained a degree in Government, studied classical theater abroad in London, founded a non-profit to promote social science and humanities education, worked in public relations, and volunteered as a special education advocate in the public school system.  After reflecting upon his passions, which include, performance, public speaking, education, diversity, and justice, and after considering his interests in finding a job with ample opportunities for travel and growth; Mr. Lambert decided that TESOL would be a fruitful career option.

Mr. Lambert was interested in Institute because of the school’s notable international reputation and the numerous advantages of Monterey Bay, but it wasn’t until he observed the TESOL program’s Structure of English and Educational Research classes that Mr. Lambert made the definitive decision to apply.  He was immediately impressed by the distinctly different yet still effective pedagogical styles employed by the two professors.  He felt confident they would prove to be great mentors, and, indeed, they were.  Thanks to their mentorship and his own perpetual dedication to reflect on world issues, Mr. Lambert now views classroom and learner dynamics through sociocultural and ecological lenses.  This approach translates well into the classroom as it allows Mr. Lambert to break down power structures and barriers, encouraging both teacher and learner to express their identity and self.  Mr. Lambert’s contribution to the language programs on campus has certainly been tangible.

Written by Sadie Hunsinger