English for Everyone: Spoken, Listening & Writing Skills by DU English Literature Graduate

Find out more about Sumeet

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  My interest in the subject began at an early age through my school textbooks. I vividly remember being captivated by stories like The Tiger in the Tunnel by Ruskin Bond and the rich imagery of poems such as In the Bazaars of Hyderabad by Sarojini Naidu. My ICSE schooling also exposed me to drama and literary analysis at an early stage, which further deepened my fascination with the language.
  The real turning point came during my ISC years, when I moved to Gorakhpur for higher secondary education. In that new environment, peer learning and conversations with classmates introduced me to contemporary English fiction and reading culture beyond the classroom. Around that time, I purchased my first full-length English novel, Revolution 2020 by Chetan Bhagat, from Student Corner bookstore in Golghar. Experiencing the sheer pleasure of reading that book sparked a lasting passion for literature, and I have continued reading extensively ever since.
  This growing love for literature eventually inspired me to pursue English academically at the Department of English, Ramjas College. My fascination with language did not stop there; it gradually evolved into a deeper intellectual curiosity about how language functions in society, culture, and human interaction, which ultimately led me to pursue a Master’s in Linguistics at the University of Delhi.
  Coming from a small-town background, I have personally experienced how mastering English can build confidence, broaden one’s worldview, and open entirely new opportunities in life.​

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  ​For me, the greatest motivation to teach is the deep fulfillment that comes from helping a fellow human being reach their true potential. I deeply resonate with the philosophy that education is not preparation for life, but life itself. I am driven by the idea that learning creates confidence, dignity, and social awareness.
  ​My thinking is profoundly influenced by leaders like Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, whose belief in education as a tool for empowerment strongly resonates with me. Teaching English is not only about grammar or fluency—it is about helping people discover confidence in their own voice so they can fully participate in life.

• How does your work help society?

  ​I believe communication and education can positively influence society by making people more expressive, aware, and confident. Strong English communication skills help individuals participate more actively in their education, careers, and the opportunities around them.
  ​Through teaching, I strive to create an encouraging and non-judgmental learning environment, especially for students who may struggle with hesitation or a lack of exposure.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  ​When I think of a role model for my classroom, I immediately look to John Keating, the iconic English teacher played by Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society (1989 film). His philosophy—that literature and poetry aren't just academic exercises but essential tools for learning how to think for oneself and express one's true voice—is exactly how I view teaching language.
  ​Mirroring that cinematic inspiration, I am also deeply influenced by filmmakers like Satyajit Ray and Ritwik Ghatak. I believe teaching, much like filmmaking, is essentially about communication, empathetic storytelling, and connecting with an audience. I draw on their grounded, realistic narratives to ensure my lessons are highly relatable and deeply rooted in the lived experiences of my students.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Outside of teaching, my interests range from the outdoors to the creative arts. I enjoy traveling, backpacking, cycling, and exploring local cultures. On the creative side, I spend my time filmmaking, playing the guitar and singing, photography, and content creation. I am particularly passionate about storytelling—documenting people, places, and everyday life through visuals and writing.
  ​I am also highly interested in entrepreneurship and grassroots business ideas that connect with small towns and drive community-led growth.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  ​One of my most memorable experiences involved a student who was terrified of making mistakes. For the first few weeks, they would barely speak, answering only in single, hesitant words, convinced that their broken English was a reflection of their intelligence.
  ​Instead of pushing grammar rules, I shifted the focus to storytelling—something I deeply believe in. I asked them to describe a favorite childhood memory from their hometown, assuring them that the emotion and the story mattered far more than perfect syntax.
  ​The shift was incredible. Once they stopped worrying about being "correct" and started focusing on being "heard," the hesitation melted away. A few months later, that same student voluntarily gave a presentation to the class. Seeing their posture change—from looking at the floor to making confident eye contact—reminded me exactly why I teach. It reinforced my belief that teaching English isn't just about language; it’s about helping someone dismantle their self-doubt and reclaim their voice.