About Fabiana Papaleoni Italian Teacher

Ciao! I'm Fabiana Papaleoni, an Italian language teacher and tutor originally from Italy.

Welcome to Ciao Italian Lessons!

I am passionate about sharing the Italian language and culture with students from all over the world. I offer personalized online Italian lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners, helping students develop their communication skills, build confidence, and discover the richness of Italian culture.

My Background and Education

I grew up in Italy, where I earned my degree in Italian Language and Literature from the University of Parma, Faculty of Letters and Philosophy. Alongside my university studies, I pursued violin performance and music at the Conservatorio di Musica “Arrigo Boito” in Parma.

Studying literature, languages, and music helped me develop an interdisciplinary approach to education and a deep appreciation for the connections between language, history, art, and culture.

I am currently pursuing an MBA at the University of New Haven in Connecticut.

My International Teaching Experience

My teaching journey began during my university years in Italy, when I worked as a private music teacher, tutor, and elementary school teacher.

After moving abroad, I had the opportunity to live and teach in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Norway, and the United States.

In the United Kingdom, I worked with students learning Italian and Latin, including beginners and students preparing for their A-level examinations.

In Norway, I taught Italian courses to adult learners at levels ranging from beginner (A1–A2) to advanced (C1–C2), at Allora Language School.

Learning English and Norwegian as foreign languages myself has given me a valuable perspective on the challenges and rewards of language learning. I understand how important it is to feel comfortable, motivated, and confident when communicating in a new language.

Since moving to the United States in 2018, I have continued sharing my passion for Italian through private lessons, language courses, and cultural programs.

Since spring 2025, I have also worked as an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of New Haven, developing and teaching a course in Italian Terminology and Culture for students and instructors preparing to study in Italy.

I have taught Italian at AUX 3 POMMES Foreign Language School in Guilford, Connecticut, and I currently work as a Building Substitute Teacher in Guilford Public Schools.

My Teaching Philosophy

I believe that learning a language should be an enjoyable, meaningful, and enriching experience.

Every student has different interests, goals, and learning preferences. For this reason, I design my lessons around individual needs, combining structured language instruction with practical communication and cultural discovery.

My lessons incorporate a variety of resources, including authentic Italian texts, videos, music, podcasts, interactive exercises, and materials that I personally develop.

Whether you are learning Italian for travel, family connections, professional development, or simply for the pleasure of discovering a new language, my goal is to help you make steady progress while enjoying the learning process.

Ciao Italian Lessons

Through Ciao Italian Lessons, I offer:

Online Italian lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners

Personalized private Italian tutoring

Small-group Italian courses and conversation practice

Italian book clubs

Seminars on Italian art, music, literature, and culture

Personalized assistance with planning trips to Italy

I also collaborate with adult education centers and libraries to offer Italian language and cultural programs, both online and in person.

A Little More About Me

Outside teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, running, and attending concerts and theater performances.

I believe that languages open doors to new experiences, friendships, and cultures, and I love helping my students discover these opportunities through Italian.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you on your Italian learning journey!

A presto!