Alumni Interview with Josel Buscano

What inspired you to go abroad?

I initially just wanted to have new school to work at and a place to travel after my contract finished with my former employer back in the Philippines—but it turned out to be something more than that. After finishing my undergrad I had already planned to save enough money so I could at least go abroad and explore for personal interest. I am not really fan of traveling so it was more of a self goal. For some reason, I felt the eagerness that time to travel internationally alone for the first time. I didn’t plan too much or set too many expectations, but I ended up with a plane ticket to Thailand. 

Why did you choose MediaKids?

They were actually asking specific and thorough questions when I had my interview with them. I think those words were great contributing factors for me to choose and stick with them the entire process. They gave me information to feel secure about their organization and the background of the job—information about the school and the company, how the team supports every teacher and the likes. That's what I really wanted the most about the company. 

What was your favorite part about Thailand?

I may say EVERYTHING! I really loved every experience I had when I was in Thailand, particularly in Chaiyaphum. But I think the most memorable for me are the travels and bonding moments with my new acquainted friends, co-workers, students, and the company staff. 

What made your experience abroad unique?

It was all made up of very new experiences. I always thought about this in the back of my head that when I would go on and do something new, that I need to embrace it in order to make sure I don’t have any regrets for not doing this and not doing that while on that experience. Learning the culture and language, understanding the education system—those experiences I had are priceless! 

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

They are not just an ordinary team, they are actually a strong team.They are really supportive and helpful group of staff. The company provides us with consultants who are so kind and friendly. I can even give them a ring about most of my hard times and issues about teaching materials, concerns about directions, Thai language translation, and even visa and other related things. I felt that the company cared so much for the teachers. 

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

I wish I had more years to work with the company, with the school, and with the students.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

I started my typical day by getting up around 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.. I would already be at school usually between 7:15 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. to do gate duty every Wednesday and Friday and also to prepare things for the lessons. I attended the school morning assembly and then had my classes in the morning. 

We had a short break for lunch at around 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and then I went straight into my afternoon sessions until I finished the day. I usually have two to four classes per day, but that was dependent on the schedule provided by the school. After school I went straight to my apartment and then went biking until 6:00 p.m.. At night, I would have a dinner with some of my co-teachers and friends. 

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoyed learning the Thai language, playing mind games, and talking with my students during free time on school days. But during weekends I liked to travel and rest. 

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

It was perfectly fine. My apartment was suited the way I wanted it. It was calm and a little off of the road. I could barely hear the sound of the nature from the balcony. The room is cleaned by the cleaner almost everyday, and had an air-conditioner, a bathroom with hot shower, free WiFi, and most of all, a very nice and kind landlord. He always gave me a ride whenever I had errands anywhere in the city. I was totally satisfied. 

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

When you're planning to move avoid setting expectations. Try to be flexible so that you will be able to enjoy most of your stay and also your work.

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

My program changed my perceptions on things like adaptation, socialization, patience, and education related ideas. I am now connected to a public school in the Philippines and I feel confident to share my experiences to my learners and integrate some of what I learned into my lessons. 

Would you recommend MediaKids to others? Why?

That’s a big YES! MediaKids Academy is a great platform for those who are interested to grow as a professional in the field of education, and in particular teaching English in a foreign country. The staff are professional and reliable in terms of helping out their teachers to be effective and efficient mentors of Thai educational system. 100% no regrets! I even marked them in my heart for their contribution to my growth and I will always thank MediaKids for the help.