Where was your first travel experience and how has it left a lasting impact on you?
My first travel experience was a family holiday at the age of nine to Disney World, Florida. Like most kids, visiting Disney World was probably the biggest dream that I had at the time. Luckily for me, the reality far exceeded my expectations as nothing could compare to the excitement of meeting Minnie Mouse and several other Disney Characters in the flesh. As the trip was a dream come true it was an overall mesmerizing experience. I remember also being so fascinated by Florida's landscape, the American accent, and the culture as a whole. As Disney has six parks, visiting each one as a kid felt like magic.
A trip to the farm with my Kindergarten students and their parents
What inspired you to get involved in this industry?
In 2016 I decided to take the plunge and teach English in China for a year. My year in China was a life-altering experience on so many levels. I had the opportunity to live in a culture completely different from anything I had ever experienced. In addition, I was able to broaden my understanding of the world which subsequently sparked a desire for more travel. Living in China also allowed me to understand myself in ways that only living abroad could. Personal attributes such as adaptability, flexibility, and global curiosity really became recognizable whilst living abroad. After having such a positive, life-changing year, it was only natural for me to pursue a career in this Industry.
In front of Zhengzhou’s famous landmark- Erqi Tower, the tallest tower in Zhengzhou
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
Each day varies in responsibilities, which makes work exciting! Every morning consists of preparing for my day and week ahead and managing my duties for the day. The next step is going through my inbox and responding to applications that have either come directly to my email or through various platforms. At this stage, I take the time to thoroughly screen CV’s to be able to properly assess a candidate's suitability for the position. Applicants who match requirements are then sent an interview invitation. The rest of the day consists of active headhunting through platforms such as Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram, along with liaising with our partner schools in China. Other duties include conducting phone interviews, preparing candidates for second stage interviews with the schools, and also promoting our teaching positions through social media. The most exciting part is, of course, extending offers to successful candidates. Work is truly rewarding as I am in a position to assist teachers in taking on a life-changing step.
What is your favorite part about Chinese culture?
During my year in China, I was appreciative of how hospitable the culture is. My colleagues quickly became friends that introduced me to their friends and family which then widened my network and ultimately contributed to China feeling like home. Due to being so far away from home I truly treasured the friendships that I built during the course of the year. In hindsight, I also feel that making Chinese friends allowed me to gain an authentic view of China as I was able to visit a number of places that I may not have visited otherwise.
How do you help liaise between teachers and placements?
Being the bridge between the school and the teacher, I make sure that the schools understand the basic needs and requirements of a foreign teacher and that the job is an appropriate one. At the initial interview with the candidates, I take the time to really get to know them and understand the motives behind their decision to go, by doing so I am in a better position to judge a candidate’s suitability for the position. We speak to the teachers in-depth to make sure they are ready for the journey that they are about to go on. As I have had the first-hand experience of teaching in China, I take the opportunity to share my own experience and this usually encourages teachers to ask questions about my experience specifically. For the teachers who are suitable, the next step is to determine the ideal city based on the kind of lifestyle they wish to live in China. As China's landscape is so diverse, it’s very important for me to explain the characteristics of the various cities that our schools are located in. By giving candidates a full picture of what to expect, it means that they leave the interview with more certainty.
End of year summer Barbecue
Describe the qualities of a successful teacher.
Making the decision to move to China is a big step and inevitably comes with its unique set of challenges that is typical when moving to a culture that is a stark contrast. In addition, there are several phases of culture shock and the personal traits of an individual will determine how long this will last for. A key quality that a successful teacher will need to possess is adaptability. China is so different in so many ways and therefore a teacher would need to be accepting and adaptable in order to succeed. Teachers who are truly passionate about teaching and who are also purpose-driven will have the fuel to overcome the expected challenges that come along with living in a foreign country. A great way to deal with the expected hurdles is a constant reminder of the motives behind the decision to go in the first place.
What is your best piece of advice for a prospective teacher?
Go for it! There are truly no words to perfectly articulate the benefits of teaching and living in China. You have to experience it to be able to fully understand the value that will emerge from living and teaching in China. Just like anything else, attitude definitely plays a significant role in how the experience unfolds. Being less judgemental and more accepting will help you settle into life much quicker. Lastly, there is a great reward that comes with being a cultural ambassador by introducing China's next generation to a world that they may not have seen before. As a TEFL teacher, you are not only a teacher but you represent the country you are from and therefore are in a position to enlighten your students by sharing your culture. Taking on a big step like living abroad will reap plenty of rewards both professionally and personally, so do it!
Why is China a desirable place to teach?
China is a large country with such a diverse landscape. As a TEFL teacher, you will have the opportunity to travel and soak up its incredible culture. Aside from all there is to see in China, the food is incredible. Authentic Chinese food is different to the food we are served at home, the cuisine is so varied and there is bound to be a dish that you’ll love. Furthermore, as a whole, China is a hospitable culture and as long as you take on an open-minded friendly approach you are guaranteed to make Chinese friends. They will proudly take you around their city, introduce you to family, friends, and make it their personal duty to ensure China feels like home. In addition, if you are looking to learn Mandarin you will meet plenty of people who would be willing to tutor you.