What inspired you to travel abroad?
I’ve always had a passion for travel and experiencing new cultures, but what truly inspired me to go abroad was the opportunity to combine my love for teaching with the excitement of living in a foreign country.
Teaching English abroad seemed like the perfect way to challenge myself while making a positive impact. The idea of immersing myself in a vibrant city like Madrid and learning firsthand about Spanish culture was too enticing to pass up.
Why did you choose TEFL Madrid Academy?
I chose the TEFL Academy in Madrid because of its reputation for providing excellent hands-on training and support.
The program stood out to me because of its emphasis on practical teaching experience with real students. I also appreciated the small class sizes, personalized feedback, and the opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most exciting cities while earning my certification.
Enjoying a relaxed moment with others at TEFL Madrid Academy, surrounded by books and good vibes.
What was your favorite part about Madrid?
Madrid is a city that feels alive 24/7, and my favorite part was immersing myself in its dynamic culture.
From wandering through the historic streets to enjoying tapas at local bars, every moment felt special. The people were warm and welcoming, and the sense of community was incredible.
Exploring landmarks like the Prado Museum and Retiro Park was unforgettable, but even simple moments—like sharing churros with classmates—made my experience extraordinary.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The combination of rigorous training, cultural immersion, and the friendships I built made my time abroad extraordinary.
The TEFL course was challenging but rewarding, and the support from instructors and fellow trainees created a real sense of camaraderie. Exploring Madrid and making connections with local students brought everything to life.
It wasn’t just about earning a certificate; it was about personal growth and creating lifelong memories.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff were exceptional! They were approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in our success.
They provided detailed feedback after every teaching practice, which helped me grow as an educator. Beyond the classroom, they were always there to answer questions about living in Madrid—from finding the best markets to navigating public transport.
Their support made me feel confident and cared for throughout the program.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
If I could do it again, I’d make more of an effort to learn Spanish before and during my time in Madrid.
While I picked up some phrases, I think having a stronger grasp of the language would have deepened my connections with locals and made navigating daily life even smoother. It’s a small regret, but one that future participants should consider to enhance their experience.
Taking a break to enjoy churros and hot chocolate—a sweet part of the Madrid experience.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day started with morning classes focused on lesson planning and teaching techniques. After a quick coffee break, we’d dive into hands-on teaching practice.
Afternoons were often spent exploring Madrid—visiting landmarks, trying local dishes, or enjoying a walk in Retiro Park. Evenings were a mix of preparing for the next day’s lessons and unwinding with friends at a local tapas bar.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During my free time, I loved exploring Madrid’s diverse neighborhoods.
From the artistic vibe of Malasaña to the elegant streets of Salamanca, there was always something new to discover. I also enjoyed sampling different tapas, watching flamenco performances, and soaking in the sunset at Temple of Debod.
Weekend trips to nearby cities like Toledo and Segovia were also highlights of my experience.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a shared apartment with other program participants, which was a fantastic way to make friends and share experiences.
The location was central, so getting around Madrid was easy. What I liked most was the sense of community we built—it felt like having a little family away from home.
Sharing meals and stories after long days of training was a highlight of my time abroad.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
The program is intensive, so come prepared to work hard and stay focused. It’s not a holiday—but the effort you put in will be worth it.
Embrace the challenge, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Also, take time to enjoy Madrid and immerse yourself in the local culture. Balance is key!
Smiles all around after a fun and productive day at TEFL Madrid Academy.
Would you recommend TEFL Madrid Academy to others? Why?
Absolutely! The TEFL Academy in Madrid provides everything you need to succeed as a teacher, from excellent training to real-world experience.
The staff are incredibly supportive, and the program is well-structured to ensure you leave feeling confident and prepared. Plus, living in Madrid is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of the most exciting cities in the world.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Traveling abroad broadens your perspective like nothing else. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, helps you build resilience, and teaches you how to adapt to new environments.
You not only gain professional skills but also grow as a person. The connections you make and the cultural experiences you have stay with you forever.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My time in Madrid gave me a newfound sense of confidence and adaptability. It taught me to embrace challenges and approach life with an open mind.
Professionally, earning my TEFL certification opened up opportunities to teach English worldwide. Personally, I returned home with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for Spanish culture.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel goes beyond sightseeing—it’s about immersing yourself in a new culture, connecting with people, and growing as a person.
It’s about stepping outside your routine, embracing differences, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact on both yourself and the communities you visit.
