Bonjour! I'm a seasoned tutor with 15+ years' experience, have lived and studied in France and understand how you, as an English speaker, approach learning the language.

Studying with Mary rocks! After our first session, she understood my existing French expertise and was able to craft a syllabus that would both challenge me and target weaknesses – twelve months in, I’m a far better French linguist than I had been prior. In fact, I would argue that Mary’s sessions are on par with the French instruction I received from my professors!

I highly recommend Mary Vistica for a one-on-one French teacher. Our lessons began approximately two and a half months prior to a trip to numerous cities and towns in France, some of which would have less English speakers. We set goals of being able to discuss various aspects of hotels, museums, directions within the city, travel by metro and trains, etc. With a minimum of resources (two books I was able to purchase used on eBay), we jumped right into lessons. In the process of learning basic daily etiquette (very important to the French), I was able to conjugate numerous useful verbs that enabled me to have conversations that were not simply “right out of the book”, but rather on the spot dialogues.
Our lesson plan was simple; twice a week for ten weeks. In that time, I learned phrases, grammar, etiquette, could negotiate directions around town, and numbers, including telling time (it’s somewhat different there).
Ultimately, I was able to speak French in a number of situations, and found that even when “my words failed me”, the French were endlessly patient, kind, and grateful that I was trying to speak their language.
Lastly, it is important to note that Mary was punctual and efficient with the class time.