Fernab von der Insel der Queen, Earl Grey Teetrinkern, auf der falschen Seite Fahrern, Championsleage Siegern, nicht EM-Teilnehmern, nahmen KOMMPress-RedakteurInnen Marlene Buchart und erstmals Mario Schönhofer die Gelegenheit wahr unseren „English Teacher“, Mark Heather zum Interview zu laden. Er gewährt uns nicht nur Einblicke in sein Leben als Lektor, sondern auch als Familienmensch und Fußballfan.

„My lack of experience actually worked in my favour!”

KOMMPress: When did you decide to become an English teacher, and what were your reasons for doing so?

Heather: It was in Berlin about eight years ago when an Irish friend of mine told me a new language school had opened which was looking for new trainers. At that time I didn’t have any experience or teaching qualifications, but seeing as they couldn’t pay very much, my lack of experience actually worked in my favour! Anyway, I learned quickly and discovered early on how much I enjoyed teaching and knew: this was the career I wanted to pursue.

KOMMPress: Can you translate „Kommunikationswirtschaft” for us into English, and briefly describe the importance of English in this course of studies?

Heather: I think most people would agree that „Corporate Communications” is a pretty close „free” translation although I often hear „Communication Management” as well as „Communication Economics”.
I find it difficult to contemplate anyone applying for a job in a higher position, especially in Communications, without excellent English in reading, writing, speaking and comprehension. 

„I consider each mistake made as a 
learning opportunity…”

KOMMPress: How has your life changed since you moved to Austria, and if you were able to go back and do anything differently, would you?

Heather: I feel very fortunate to be living in Austria and the decision to come here was one of the best and most important decisions I have made. Before I arrived here I used to play football for a team, travel a lot and lead a rather more care-free existence, often burning the candle at both ends, whereas now I’m more settled and looking forward to fatherhood!

I am someone who enjoys living for the day and building for the future. I consider each mistake made as a learning opportunity so any mistakes I’ve made I assume have served a purpose and lead me to where I am today.

KOMMPress: Do you think the English language has become more important in Europe since the foundation of the EU (or because of the EU)?

Heather: Yes I do, amongst other factors. The free market, globalization, affordable international travel, saturated domestic markets, not to mention the fall of the iron curtain and expansion of the EU have all had a massive impact on the way business is conducted nowadays. Eastern Europeans have quickly adapted to these new circumstances and a large number have learned excellent English. This has placed more pressure on German speakers, who used to get by on German, to keep up with their ambitious Eastern European counterparts.

„I just hope Austria stays in the competition 
as long as possible”

KOMMPress: How do you feel about England's football team failing to qualify for Euro 2008 and will you now support Austria's football team instead? 

Heather: I felt somewhat sad, but our teams have been very successful in the Champions League so this has made up for it.
In Euro 2008 it will be impossible to get behind a team as I would for my own country. In a way it is a relief just to be able to enjoy the football without worrying about which team will win or lose. I just hope Austria stays in the competition as long as possible. If they get to the knockout stages I will be cheering them on as much as anyone!

„Walking through Vienna is like stepping 
inside a fairytale”

KOMMPress: Which differences do you notice between the lifestyles of Southampton and Vienna, and how do the differences affect your life?

Heather: There are few things I really miss, but one thing certainly is football which is a national obsession. Things I prefer over here are without doubt the coffee and cakes which can’t compare with anywhere else!
Walking through Vienna is like stepping inside a fairytale. The history and culture just swallows you up whole with its imperial palaces, ornate architecture and narrow cobble streets. Southampton also has a rich history, in its own way. It is a famous international port and can claim to be the home of many of the world’s largest and most luxurious liners including the Titanic no less. In fact the bar Leonardo DiCaprio was playing cards in at the beginning of the film is now called The Platform Tavern and is run by my mate Stuart! 

„My classes give me immense energy”

KOMMPress: Do you feel comfortable in front of the class,
particularly when speaking about „us”? 

Heather (asked by co-editor marlene, foto):
Interesting question :). Yeah, I do. My classes give me immense energy which I believe arises from the friction between confidence and complacency. In most things I do, including teaching, I work hard to make my life easier while at the same time seeking new challenges to keep me sharp. As soon as anything becomes too routine I quickly move on to something fresh. Right now teaching at the FHWien is motivating and challenging and should remain so for a few semesters yet!

„For me, those are the moments I live for!”

KOMMPress: How do you spend your free time?

Heather: When all the books are back on the shelf, the lap-top is shut down and my mobile switched off, there is nothing I find more pleasurable than the company of my family and friends along with lots of laughter, eating a delicious meal accompanied by some good music, and sharing a superb bottle of wine. For me, those are the moments I live for!

KOMMPress-RedakteurInnen marlene und silencio: Thank you for the interview and we hope to see you in the Pool at the first Summerparty!