GoAbroad

Alumni Interview with Matthew Joseph Reynolds

Here's what it's like to go on a TEFL Madrid Academy program!

Matthew Joseph Reynolds

Matthew Joseph Reynolds

Participated in 2024TEFL Courses | Spain
Matthew Joseph Reynolds, from the UK, is a TEFL-certified educator with a passion for travel and cultural exchange. Trained at TEFL Madrid Academy, he has lived and worked in Spain, sharing his love for the English language while connecting with people around the world.
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What inspired you to travel abroad?

What inspired me to go abroad was the desire to step out of my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture, learn a new language, and grow both personally and professionally.

Teaching abroad offered the perfect opportunity to combine my passion for education with my love for travel. Madrid was the ideal destination for this adventure.

Why did you choose TEFL Madrid Academy?

I chose TEFL Madrid Academy because of their excellent reputation, comprehensive training, and strong job placement support. Their commitment to helping graduates find teaching positions was impressive.

They even assist with legal paperwork and visa processes. I felt confident that I’d receive the guidance and resources needed to successfully start my teaching career in Spain.

What was your favorite part about Madrid, Spain?

My favorite part about Madrid was its vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere. The city is full of life, with stunning architecture, rich history, and incredible food.

The people are warm and friendly, making it easy to feel at home. I loved exploring the diverse neighborhoods, enjoying tapas, and taking in the lively Spanish lifestyle – there’s always something exciting happening!

What made your experience abroad extraordinary?

What made my experience extraordinary was the combination of TEFL Madrid Academy’s unwavering support and the incredible friendships I formed. The training was top-notch, and the staff were always there to help.

Outside of the program, I met amazing people from all over the world, which enriched my journey. Living in such a dynamic city as Madrid made every day an adventure.

Matthew during a TEFL class.

During a TEFL class.

How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?

The local staff at TEFL Madrid Academy were incredibly supportive from start to finish. They guided me through the visa and legal paperwork process, provided excellent training, and offered continuous mentorship.

They were always available to answer questions, offer advice, and help with job placement. Their dedication made my transition to life in Spain seamless.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?

If I could do one thing differently, I would have explored more of Spain outside of Madrid. While I absolutely loved immersing myself in the city's culture, I realize now that there’s so much more to see in this beautiful country.

Taking more weekend trips to explore other regions would have enriched my experience even further.

Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.

A typical day started with a morning coffee at a local café before heading to teach my English classes. I taught a mix of adults and children, which kept things interesting.

After work, I’d explore different parts of Madrid, meet friends for tapas, or relax in a park. Evenings were often spent planning lessons, grading assignments, or enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?

During my free time, I loved exploring Madrid’s various neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. I enjoyed visiting museums, trying new restaurants, and spending afternoons in the city’s beautiful parks.

I also took advantage of Madrid's central location to travel around Spain and Europe, discovering new places and making unforgettable memories.

What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?

I stayed in a shared apartment with other TEFL teachers, which was a fantastic experience. The best part was the sense of community it offered.

I made great friends, and we supported each other throughout the program. The apartment was centrally located, making it easy to explore the city and fully experience Madrid’s vibrant lifestyle.

Matthew in a TEFL session.

Engaged in a TEFL session.

What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?

Future participants should know that TEFL Madrid Academy truly delivers on its promise of job placement and support. Be prepared to work hard during the training, but know that it’s worth it.

The staff are there to guide you every step of the way, from legal paperwork to finding your first teaching job. Embrace the experience and step out of your comfort zone!

Would you recommend TEFL Madrid Academy to others? Why?

Yes, I highly recommend TEFL Madrid Academy! The program offers excellent training, invaluable support with legal processes, and ensures you’re well-prepared for teaching.

The job placement assistance is outstanding, and they genuinely care about your success. It’s the perfect program if you want to teach, travel, and start a new life in Spain with confidence.

What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?

The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is personal growth. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, helping you become more adaptable, independent, and open-minded.

You learn to appreciate different cultures, gain valuable life skills, and build unforgettable memories. It’s an experience that challenges you, enriches your life, and leaves a lasting impact on your perspective.

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

My time abroad has made me more confident, adaptable, and open to new opportunities. It’s broadened my worldview, strengthened my teaching skills, and helped me build a global network of friends.

The experience has made me more adventurous and sparked a passion for travel and cultural exchange that I know will continue to shape my life for years to come.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

Meaningful travel means immersing yourself in the local culture, building genuine connections, and learning from every experience. It’s about being open to new perspectives, respecting traditions, and contributing positively to the communities you visit.

For me, it means returning home with a deeper understanding of the world and a sense of personal growth that goes beyond sightseeing.

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