What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was specifically seeking the opportunity to flex my past teaching experiences in a fun, out-of-the-box way. I had lived and worked abroad in the field of family recreation, and was seeking something new!
Because of my love of working with children, I took my experiences to the classroom! Too many people look to the wrong outlets as the cure for boredom, or in the quest to seek new perspective. Going abroad is a great opportunity to re-assess values and set further life goals.
Rory is experienced in tourism and hospitality.
Why did you choose ITT International TEFL and TESOL LTD?
The requirements for the visa were suitable for an individual of my status. Working holidays have a limited age window, but teaching English abroad provides a more flexible opportunity. I chose my program not solely because of its reputation: I also noted recommendations from corresponding consulates/embassies and the level of support I would have while abroad.
It also specialized more in placing foreigners off the beaten path where they can experience the culture more authentically.
What is your favorite part of going abroad?
My favorite part of anywhere is having adventures and new experiences. And these are possible even during lockdowns! I was presented with the opportunity to explore more in-depth the region I was placed in and recognize it as a hidden gem!
While the general area the country is in provides a great base to exploring surrounding nations, there are also ample number of things to discover in-country too! Otherwise, why not witness what seasonal changes look like in the local natural world around you?
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My students! Unlike past travel experiences which had a more nomadic lifestyle, being in a small town for the long-term allows me to foster and develop deeper relationships with the neighborhood. I also invest more in student life by attending athletic competitions and art exhibitions.
This has lead to having a more dynamic relationship with the work I do and discovering even more possibilities. I am working closer to my goal of inspiring them to have adventures of their own abroad.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
I was able to easily access assistance in case I had questions. In a situation where I am in a country where I don't readily speak the local first language, it is helpful to have 24/7 access to support for any variety of scenarios.
These can be reached either online or over the phone. It is very helpful to have those that empathize with your situation and can provide street smarts on navigating any number of scenarios. There is also present the possibility of being advised by a peer. So there is no way you will be left stranded!
What's one thing you recommend doing before going abroad?
What I recommend is to research relationship dynamics in the local culture. There are many places out there that are not as direct as what the expat is accustomed to. Sometimes even the way the bureaucracy is handled is quite different!
It helps to become familiar with how this system works in order to be less blindsided by a scenario pertaining to either of the aforementioned. Another bit of advice I have is to have a contingency plan. 2020 upended many plans, and it emphasizes the need to be creative and find opportunities in the unexpected.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looks like.
It's the land of the rising sun, so no alarm is required! I start my day surrounded by rice fields and cranes. I typically walk to my place of work, in case any of my bicycling students need assistance. I spend my weekdays preparing/presenting lessons that I have created for classes.
Upon walking home, I might commute later to language class. Weekends are the opportunity to explore! An example is a visit to a local flea or farmer's market in order to discover a way to make an original, creative recipe or find an original memento.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I really enjoy visiting local places of interest, such as beaches or temples. There are also ample numbers of museums, galleries, and interactive experiences that provide an English translation for foreign visitors. Various festivals are also hosted which provide unique insight into local history.
For a good way to unwind, there are ample numbers of cute animal cafes to choose from! Many transport stations offer deals for those travelling long-distance for an experience, so it is worth reading up on these!
What type of accommodation do you have? What do you like best about it?
I live in my own apartment. The best part is being in the countryside where it is nice and quiet! Security is a major plus to the area in which I live. Further, it thankfully is within walking distance to and from work and provides a reasonable commute to local essentials.
There is also a train station nearby. It really provides a unique experience to live in the middle of rice fields and witness the progression of sowing, flooding, and harvest (along with the wildlife it attracts!).
Rory is passionate about working with children.
How has your time abroad impacted your life?
It has made me restless for further adventures! Time abroad provides ample time to explore off the beaten path and create original memories. Once home, it becomes less scary to also venture off the beaten path in case there are hidden gems to be found!
It can also do incredible things for your resume. Time abroad also provides a unique work experience. This provides prospective employers with an unexpected angle, and therefore makes you a more lucrative candidate to further your career!
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Be patient! Not everyone speaks the best English. There are a variety of options in learning the local first language, so by all means reach out to these resources! Please take things one day at a time and accept that inevitably, awkward moments will happen that do not readily make sense.
There are times you will simply have to laugh at yourself. Also, be prepared to deal with the local climate! There ARE places in the world that fluctuate between muggy and freezing cold, so read up on this information pertaining to where you are going.
Would you recommend your program to others? Why?
Yes! There is ample support for a wide variety of needs. Especially in the length of time spent abroad, any number of scenarios can present themselves and there is nothing more stressful than not knowing a source of support!
Resources include peer-based support, web referrals, etc. Another perk to the program I am part of is regular social gatherings for participants. This is a good way to exchange stories and creative input, and otherwise enjoy the company of those mutually excited about each other's adventures!
