Virgil Marina

I believe that in an era of automated learning and AI, the most valuable skills are the ones that algorithms can’t replicate: nuance, empathy, and authentic communication. With a career rooted in the fast-paced New York City business world, I bring a unique perspective to education—one that prioritizes practical application over textbook theory.

I provide Real Service for Real People. My students don’t just learn English; they learn how to navigate professional environments, build confidence, and communicate with authority.

Why I am a dedicated partner in student success:

    -The Human Edge: I focus on teaching what algorithms can’t—critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and the cultural context of “Real English” required for the modern workforce.

     -NYC Business Perspective: I leverage my corporate background to connect academic learning with real-world career competencies, answering the “why” behind every lesson.

     -Adaptive & Individualized: I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. I use a flexible teaching approach that pivots to meet each student’s unique learning style and personal development goals.

     -Relationship: I build high-trust environments through strong interpersonal communication, ensuring that mentorship goes beyond the screen or the classroom.

My philosophy is best captured by Albert Einstein: “I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.” I believe education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.

Degrees and Certifications

Degrees

-Master in Science Major – TESOL-Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – City University of New York – City College  2014-2016

-Associate Degree in Computer Science – Globe Institute of Technology, New York 2000-2012

-Bachelor’s Degree in Law – West University of Law, Timisoara, Romania 1993-1998

 Certifications

-Certify Hospitality Instructor – American Hotel and Lodging Institute         AHLEI – 2020

-CLIL (Content and Language Integrated learning) – British Council 2019

-Business Language Certification – University of Washington 2019

-Property Management Certification – New York University 2010

-Professional Security Management Certification – John Jay College of Criminal Justice CUNY New York 2004

Teaching Experience

-Esperto linguistico di lingua inglese – 2016 -present – Alta Formazione Professionale per il Management dell’Ospitalità Roncegno – Alta Formazione Professionale Tecnico Superiore per la Ristorazione Tione, – Alta Formazione Professionale Filiera Turistica Riva del Garda – Alta Formazione Professionale per L’energia Sostenibile Villazzano – ITS Consulenza Belleza e Benessere Opera Barelli

  • Teaching English at B1 and B2 levels using English for Specific Purposes (ESP) tailored to the school’s area of specialization.
  • Teaching Business Language and Business Plan

-English Teacher – Istituto di Istruzione “MARIE CURIE” EDA – Pergine Valsugana 2016-present

  • Teaching English to adult students
  • Developing effective, standards-aligned lessons that support student learning and achievement of school academic objectives and benchmarks
  • Creating all courses’ curriculum and materials, including quizzes and reading samples

-Virgil Studio — English Language Specialist  2016–Present

  • Teach English to adult learners at CEFR levels A1–C2

  • Prepare students for TOEFL examinations

-CLIL English Teacher – Istituto di Formazione Professionale Alberghiero di Rovereto e Levico Terme 2016-2024

  • Teaching English through CLIL to students in the second, third year, and fourth year

-English Teacher – The City University of New York CUNY Xpress Immigration  Center – 2016

  • Teaching English to students age 18 and up.
  • Focusing on providing comprehension, speaking, writing, and grammar , ar skills

Business Experience

-Director of Reception Services and Public Safety – International House New York (hospitality)   2003-2016

Overview. International House, New York is the flagship institution of its kind. It was founded in 1924 by the Rockefeller and Dodge families and hosts 700 graduate students and scholars from over 100 countries. Each year the House creates a unique cross-cultural learning environment and promotes international educational exchange through a wide range of social, cultural and educational programs. Programs include distinguished guest speakers, resident roundtable discussions, leadership training, and cultural events.

  • In charge of reception services and front desk operations and all matters pertaining guest accommodation including reservation, check-in and out, group reservation, answering emails and working with StarRez hospitality system.
  • Planning, organizing and directing the public safety and risk management activity, working directly with the insurance providers, providing general law enforcement, criminal investigation, fire suppression and prevention, rescue services and emergency medical services and disaster responses.
  • Overseeing hiring and training of all department employees – 18 staff members full-time, part-time and on-calls.
  • Developing department’s annual budgets.
  • Assigning projects, reviewing and evaluating work methods and procedures.

-Front Desk Manager – Seafarers and International House (Hotel) – New York      1999-2003 (Full-time) 2003-2016 (Part-time)

  • In charge of front desk operations and all matters pertaining guest accommodation including reservation, housekeeping, and maintenance. Working with NightVison hotel management system