What inspired you to go abroad?
From a young age I saw going abroad as a great opportunity to really get to know and embrace other cultures. I've always thought that traveling and living abroad is the best way of expanding your horizons and learning about the world.
Teaching Hotel Management students in Chiang Mai
Why did you choose SEE TEFL?
TEFL certifications allow you to teach anywhere in the world, and that's what I was looking for. I chose to get certified with SEE TEFL in particular because it's been licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education and recognized by the UK Government Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation. Besides, they also offer placement assistance, which is great when you're new to a country and its culture.
What was your favorite part about Thailand?
Thailand is a vibrant and marvelous country with a lot to offer everywhere you go. I fell in love with the Thais' simplicity, smiles, and their food!
What made your experience abroad unique?
I've traveled a lot throughout my life, and every experience is unique due to its own reasons. In the case of Thailand, the people are the first thing that stands out—always ready to receive you with a big smile and make you feel really welcome regardless your background and situation.
Field trip with Chinese students
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
They were always willing to answer any questions or doubts very patiently and knowledgeably. They assisted us with visa enquires, best areas to look for accommodation, and they also helped us to get in contact with schools. The staff was super helpful and supportive!
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I had gotten my certification sooner.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
Classes started at 9:00 a.m. and we would go through grammar lessons, and techniques and strategies for presenting topics and how to work with large classes, as well as one on one lessons. Some days, we would visit local schools to get to know how things work here. In the afternoon we would have Thai lessons to help us understand their culture and learn ways to communicate better.
The first two weeks of the course are strictly theoretical, allowing the last two weeks to prepare the lessons and materials for the observed teaching practices. During the third and fourth week, we would meet in the classroom so the trainer would give us tips and suggestions on what to do. Then, we would go to the preparation area where everybody would use the computers and stationery available to prepare the lesson plans and teaching material.
The trainer would always be around answering any questions that came up. The course went from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (with a lunch break and two coffee breaks). After class, we would go home and enjoy the great food this country has to offer, get some rest, or even go for a drink. Despite being a very intense course, it still allows you to socialize with your classmates and other people.
Visiting a school in Myanmar
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
Most of the free time happens during the first two weeks, so I would go for a walk around town, go to local markets, visit temples, and go for food and drinks with my classmates. Chiang Mai's nightlife is quite cool so whether you like quiet places, buzzing discos, or jamming bars, there's always something going on for you to join other travelers and local people.
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
My accommodation was a nice and simple room with two beds, a fridge, a TV, a desk, private toilet, a wardrobe, and a small balcony. You could say it was humble, yet it was all I needed. The best thing is it was just a seven minute walk from SEE TEFL, so it was great to be so close.
Preparing students for their university admission entry
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
This is an intense course, you have to bear in mind that in four weeks they'll provide you with the basic insights on how to prepare a lesson, deliver it, and manage a class. It can be overwhelming and it requires a lot of energy and can-do attitude, though it's totally worth the experience. People also need to remember that it's a learning process—so you must be patient with yourself and your progress.
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
Being abroad broadens your mind and being in contact with other cultures helps you remember that despite coming from different backgrounds, at the end of the day, we all just want to make the most of our time here. It's also the best reminder to be grateful for what you've had and still have.
Would you recommend SEE TEFL to others? Why?
I'd absolutely recommend SEE TEFL. Teaching is an amazing and rewarding experience.
