What inspired you to travel abroad?
I've always wanted to travel abroad to learn about different cultures and people. Some of the things that inspired me were events that I learned about in history and stories I read in books.
At the Nurses College
Why did you choose to take your Vantage TEFL Certification in Bangkok, Thailand?
I chose Bangkok, Thailand because of all the good things I heard about the country, as well as its affordability. I had never been to Thailand and thought this was a good opportunity to explore the city as well as take my TEFL Certification.
What was your favorite part about Bangkok, Thailand?
My favorite part about Bangkok was the friendliness of the people. It had a very laid back vibe and it was like living in a comparable big city in America but one tenth of the price. It is an amazing country that you just have to see for yourself in person.
What should every first-time traveler to Thailand know about the country?
It's very cheap to travel around Thailand, but pack accordingly to the weather. Make sure to eat at places that look like a commercial space otherwise you might risk food poisoning or an upset stomach. You can pick up well fitted tailored suits and shirts in town so don't worry about bringing them. You’ll be able to buy custom fit suit for under $100 dollars.
It helps to have a small travel bag as well since you'll always be caring your passport and personal things. Some of the best places to check out when you first get to Thailand is Khao San Road. There are a lot of good places to eat and shop in the area as well as a lot of other foreign visitors and tourists. Be wary, as there are large crowds which can be overwhelming for someone who has not visited a dense city before.
Teaching the students
Are there any essentials that you recommend packing for a TEFL trip to Thailand?
Yes, bring your own deodorant as some international deodorants are hard to come by. I would bring a lot of light clothing since the weather in Bangkok can be hot and humid. There is no need to pack anything heavy as it seems to be summer weather all year round.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
So much history is preserved in Bangkok and the new culture was so different which made it extraordinary.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff was there for us from point A to point Z. I never felt that I was in the dark. I really felt that I got the most out of the program that I could.
What kind of support did Vintage TEFL offer both pre-departure and in-country? (Visa assistance, medical assistance, accommodation assistance, etc?)
TEFL gave me all the information I needed to arrange for my stay including the cheapest hotel and accommodation. They also assisted and went on the BTS with me when I took my practicum tests.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had gone abroad to Bangkok, Thailand earlier.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
My typical day started with breakfast and class. The classes entailed lecture in the morning and afternoon and a practicum in the evening. The class style was mostly question and answer which allowed students to talk more in depth and get more information during lessons. Topics the class was familiar with could be easily skimmed which placed more time and focus on important subjects. After class I would take a nap and study a bit before heading to bed.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
In my free time I enjoyed seeing the inner workings of downtown Bangkok. It was amazing!
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a small hotel. I liked that it was a minute away from class.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Future participants should know to start working on lesson plans before leaving and know a grammar point you would like to teach.
With some students
Would you recommend Vantage TEFL—Validated by Fairmont State University (USA) in Bangkok, Thailand to others? Why?
Yes, I would highly recommend getting a TEFL Certificate in Bangkok because it is such a great city and team to earn your certificate with.
What do you feel the greatest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The greatest benefit of traveling abroad is gaining a new perspective and experiencing a different style of living.
Where are you now? Why did you choose to stay abroad?
I am currently an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan. I chose to stay abroad because that was the whole purpose of obtaining a TEFL certificate. I think leaving your home and being placed in new surroundings is a great way to further your education and pick up additional skills. Everyone should travel at least once to see what the world has to offer while learning from different cultures. When you choose a country you should always do a little bit of research. I think most people will find it is a lot more affordable living overseas than it is living in the United States.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
What meaningful travel means to me is new experiences and beautiful people.
