Welcome
to Silicon Valley, Now What?
Empower Your Children to Succeed with the Right Guidance at School and Beyond
About
RiraSsam
I am dedicated to supporting Korean expat families in the Bay Area by helping both students and parents build a strong foundation in English and gain essential insights into the U.S. education system. My mission is to equip students with the academic English skills needed for success in school and to empower Korean parents to better support their children’s academic journey while living in the United States.
ESL Expert | College Counselor | International Student Professional
MA in TESOL
13 Years of Tutoring English in Silicon Valley
12 Years of Supporting International Students and Families
6 Years of Academic and College Counseling
Methodology of
RiraSsam
Student-Centered and Goal-Oriented
I tailor instruction to each student's academic needs, focusing on developing the English skills required for classroom performance, standardized testing, and long-term academic success.
Parent-Empowering
Recognizing the critical role of parents, I also provide training and resources to help Korean parents understand the U.S. education system, communicate effectively in school settings, and support their children's learning at home.
Academically Rigorous and Culturally Responsive
Drawing on my ESL teaching background and years in college counseling and program leadership at a leading private high school, I integrate academic instruction with real-world applications--such as writing college essays, delivering presentations, participating in group projects, and understanding school expectations.
Bridge-Building
As a bilingual, bicultural educator, I help families overcome language and cultural barriers, ensuring smooth transitions and better engagement in school communities in the Bay Area.
The
Offerings
As a Korean American educator and fellow parent, I care deeply about Korean families raising children in the Bay Area. I understand both the hopes and the challenges that come with navigating a new education system while trying to support your child with confidence. To serve these families, I offer private and group English classes, parent seminars, and company-hosted workshops tailored for Korean expat communities.
My services primarily focus on the following areas:
All About English
Private & Group Classes
(12-Week Program)
Student Group Workshops
Parent Seminars
With over 10 years of experience teaching Korean expat students, I train students to comprehend English texts without relying on Korean translation, dramatically improve pronunciation, and internalize English as a functional language—not just a subject. My holistic approach helps students build the language foundation and academic skills needed to succeed confidently in U.S. classrooms.
College Admissions
Parent Seminars
Through years of experience as an academic and college counselor and as the director of a leading international student program, I understand exactly what Korean parents and students need to navigate the U.S. college admissions process successfully. I break down the essential steps students and parents should take—offering insights that not only prepare students to meet admissions goals, but also help them pursue college, career, and life with purpose and direction.
Student Confidence
Parent Seminars
I share how you can support your child in building confidence, making friends, and feeling a sense of belonging at school. I’ll talk about how involvement in clubs, leadership, and daily interactions helps students—especially international or introverted ones—grow socially and emotionally, not just academically. Together, we’ll explore ways to guide them to thrive both in and outside the classroom.
Reading Literacy
Parent Seminars
Reading is one of the most critical drivers of a child's brain development and academic success. It strengthens cognitive functions, builds language and critical thinking skills, and lays the foundation for lifelong learning. In today's AI-driven world, where information is abundant but deep understanding is rare, strong reading habits empower students to think independently, communicate effectively, and adapt to a rapidly changing future. Readers don't just have an advantage--they are the ones who will lead the world.
The
Why
I truly believe I’ve been called to do this. What encourages me most is seeing my students thrive and grow in confidence—and knowing that I’ve had a part in their journey. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them succeed with the guidance and care I’ve poured into this work. I’m also deeply honored when parents recognize my heart and dedication. Their trust means everything to me, and it’s what inspires me to keep showing up, giving my best, and walking alongside each family with sincerity and purpose.
Student
Achievements
I am honored to share that my students consistently reach meaningful milestones through my teaching and guidance:
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Students begin understanding English texts without relying on Korean translation.
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Students make noticeable improvement in English pronunciation after just a few focused sessions.
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As their English skills improve, students gain confidence, participate more actively in school, and thrive both academically and socially.
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Students are admitted to their first-choice universities. Past students have been accepted to Babson College, Boston University, Carnegie Mellon University, Carleton College, Cornell University, NYU, Northeastern University, Northwestern University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, Vanderbilt University, and more.