What inspired you to travel abroad?
I wanted the chance to immerse myself in another country and learn a language, but I also wanted experience in something different to my university course, like teaching.
Enjoying the mountains
Why did you choose CONVERSASPAIN?
I chose ConversaSpain because they were the first advert I saw, but also because it sounded ideal for me. I already knew I liked the region of Murcia so when I saw this was one of the places they offered placements, I was interested. The amount of hours and the guarantee of four consecutive days of work appealed to me too.
What was your favorite part about Spain?
It’s hard to choose a favourite part. I really liked the laid back culture and the climate.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The opportunity itself—to work and live abroad has been incredible.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
ConversaSpain always communicated well with me and quickly responded to any questions I had. When my initial timetable spanned over five days instead of four the school changed it when asked. Throughout the year the teachers at my school have been nice to work with. All in all, I have had plenty of great support.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had looked more into living in the city where my schools were, although the commute was not too bad.
Visiting Seville
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
On a typical day I catch a train either at 6:30 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. depending when my classes start. I chose to live in the city of Murcia and commute to Lorca, as I felt I would prefer to live in a bigger city as I have so much free time in the week. Then at work I help out with different classes taught in English in the secondary school I work at, whether it be English, Art, or Technology.
Sometimes I help by presenting the presentations and helping with activities and exercises, or by having discussions with the students on the topic. Usually there are free periods between my classes at some point during the day. At the primary school I play games and do fun activities with the youngest year of the school in their English classes. Then I get home at 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m., eat, relax, see friends or attend Spanish classes.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
In my free time I really enjoyed being able to explore the region and the nearby cities. Murcia has a lot to offer but is also close enough to Granada and Valencia for weekend trips.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I lived in a flat I shared with two Spanish people. What I liked best was that it was nicer than the room I rented in England and was less than half the price.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
There is so much support available and it is so easy to find other language assistants. Also when spending time abroad, the transition is smoother than you think.
Would you recommend CONVERSASPAIN to others? Why?
I would recommend them because they are pleasant to work with and support you, and also because the programme itself is fun and it is nice to share your language and culture with the students.
Visiting Cartagena
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I think the biggest benefit is being constantly surrounded by new things to see and try.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Its made me realise that living abroad is much easier than it sounds and that it is something I would probably do again and potentially permanently.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me meaningful travel is travel that has had an impact, even if small, on yourself or the community you visited.
