Staff Interview with Georgie Robyn Snape

Where are you from? How did you originally choose to travel to Vietnam? 

I am from the UK. I decided to come to Vietnam to teach English after a lot of research and found that Vietnam was the best place for me because it had a low cost of living, high wages, beautiful countryside (mountains, lakes, beaches, countryside, caves), and very friendly and welcoming people. 

How does Vietnam compare to your home city/country? 

Living in Vietnam is substantially cheaper than living in my home city. I have been able to save about £1000 a month, while only teaching about 25 hours a week. Also, there are loads of exciting places to explore and discover such as Halong Bay, Sapa, Mai Chau, DaNang, Hue, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, and the Northern Loop, Ba Be National park etc that’s only in the North and Central Vietnam! 

I spent my first year here doing a lot of exploring and taking a lot of road trips. I also did things that I never thought I would do, such as swing dancing, riding a motorbike, and showering in the river with the local people! You have an amazing work and life balance here. I work less than I ever have, and earn more than I ever have while getting to explore new things and places all the time and meet people from all over the world.

What’s a typical day like as the owner of Teacher’s Friend Vietnam? 

I help teachers from all over the world to fulfil their dreams and teach English in Vietnam. My day consists of answering questions from potential teachers, having Skype chats, preparing teachers for the big move, meeting teachers when they arrive in Vietnam, going for lunch in local restaurants, meetings with my partners and with the local people, delivering training sessions, and researching the best new information on life in Vietnam. 

How many teachers tend to participate in your program each year? 

Usually, there are 12-24 teachers who participate in my program each year.

How does Teacher’s Friend Vietnam support their teachers? 

Teacher’s Friend Vietnam supports their teachers by offering inclusive pre-departure information including a packing list, TESOL certification, a guaranteed job in a leading language centre with all required work permits and visas, housing assistance, a city tour, in-country support, lesson plans and training, discounted tours and travel, help with finding Vietnamese lessons, where to eat, drink, and meet people, answering all questions and emails, medical insurance, how to get your motorbike license in Vietnam, and ongoing support and assistance.

What is your best advice for those preparing to travel to Vietnam? 

My best advice for those preparing to travel to Vietnam is to just do it! Do your research and go with someone or an agency who you trust, who has been there before, who understands how you feel, and who cares about you. Make sure you have all of the required legal documents and that you take a 120 hour, in class, internationally recognised, TESOL certificate before coming to Vietnam or sign up for one ready for when you arrive. 

My advice is to breathe, relax, and enjoy the process. Be prepared for things that don’t work out as planned, be prepared for culture shock and setbacks, and sign up with someone who will have your back throughout the process. I recommend a real friend, not a huge organisation. 

Why should future participants be excited to get involved with Teacher’s Friend Vietnam? 

I have been in your shoes! I came to Vietnam on a Teach Abroad program, so I understand exactly how you feel, all of your questions and concerns, all of your fears and doubts, and I am here to stop all that.

After working with me, you will be living in a beautiful country, with the best work and life balance, teaching awesome kids who love you dearly, and with savings in your pocket for further travel and exploring! I am not a huge organisation, I am one person who works with local people, who will be there for you every step of the way to make this whole process fun and enjoyable, instead of stressful and anxiety filled. 

What makes your program unique to others? 

I am the only program offering such a fully comprehensive service that only operates in Vietnam and I am not a huge organisation, I am a small start-up business with your best interest at heart who will always, always put your needs first which makes me unique.

I am extremely kind, friendly, and supportive so working with me will be fun and put all of your worries at ease. You can be sure that your money is well spent and that every penny is worth it because of the exceptional customer service and support. I offer continuous support throughout your time in Vietnam and offer a guaranteed job placement in a leading language centre.

What are your hopes for the future of Teacher’s Friend Vietnam? 

I don’t want to expand to be a huge organisation. Teacher’s Friend will stay small and local. I will work with as many people as I can to help them fulfil their dreams of moving to Vietnam to teach English. I will stay personal, approachable and deliver excellent support for teachers as well as working with local people to improve the lives of the people in the country which I love so much.