What inspired you to work for INESLE Madrid?
As an English teacher, I love seeing children enjoy learning a new language and wanting to learn for themselves. INESLE Educación works hard to provide a variety of dynamic activities that the kids love to fully immerse them with the language they’re learning whether that is English or Spanish. INESLE Madrid does this in a way that is completely different than a typical classroom setting.
The best way to get to know a country is through its delicious food and tasty wine!
Describe a typical day at work.
Depending on the age group you work with, a typical day might look different. For me, I normally work with younger children and we have a schedule of different activities prepared. We start the day greeting all the kids and taking attendance and then we dive right into the activities.
There is usually five different activities throughout the day and they vary from day-to-day. Some of the activities we do are arts and crafts, cooking, sports and dance, didactic games, swimming, science and experiments, creative writing, and music.
We also prepare for a special talent show held each Friday where everyone has the opportunity to show off their talents to the rest of the campers. We usually squeeze some practice time in for that.
Why do you do what you do?
It is really satisfying for me to see the children enjoy learning in a fun environment, as well as knowing that they are making great memories. Also, it’s so much fun to hold so many different activities because you never know what the day ahead has in store. Another great part is meeting the other staff members that come from all different parts of the world!
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of being a Camp Monitor is just how much fun it can be seeing how the kids have fun and knowing you’re a part of it. They’re always so excited to come in the morning with tons of enthusiasm for all the activities. It’s great to see them make memories!
Diploma time! Each week after the talent show, one student in each group wins a diploma for a future dancer/athlete/artist/swimmer/scientist/musician, and more!
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I have been working abroad in various countries for over 10 years now, but if I could go back and give my younger self any advice, I would tell her to expect the unexpected! For myself, and many other people I’ve met along the way, I think the biggest thing that has helped or hindered the experience of any opportunity like this is expecting too much of something instead of embracing the situation for what it is and becoming more adaptable.
Why should someone choose INESLE Madrid over competitors?
INESLE is a much smaller business than some other competitors but I think this holds a big advantage for employees. It’s a much more personal experience and the coordination and leaders are always accessible. Because of this, if you need help, advice, or anything else they are reachable. Depending on your age group, you get to experience a lot yourself along with the children such as field trips and immersive activities!
Hands up if you are having fun! This is a group photo of our summer camp group!
What is INESLE Madrid's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
I believe the biggest focus of INESLE is to provide camp members with a fun, dynamic, and immersive language experience with a quality multicultural team of staff. Being a family run business, INESLE knows the value of individualizing the experience. Also, they make sure to communicate with families and children throughout to ensure everyone is happy and striving to improve.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope the participants leave the programs with a great sense of accomplishment because they tried a new experience in a new place. I hope they make a bunch of new memories with a group of new friends from all over the world. Also, I hope that the experience helps the participants feel like they have grown as a person having experienced another culture!
Enjoying a lovely boat ride in the stunning El Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
I think it’s so important to travel and experience new cultures to grow as an individual, learn about yourself and others, learn new skills, and to become a more well rounded person. I believe seeing new places and meeting people that are different than what you are used to can really help you grow, become more open and empathetic.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means jumping into a traveling experience that enriches your life completely by really getting to know the culture/country you’re traveling to. It means trying local products and places, speaking to local people, and learning about the things that are important to the culture.
