What inspired you to work for RVF International?
What inspired me to work for RVF International was the opportunity to help others experience what had such a big impact on my own life. Moving to Spain to teach was one of the most transformative decisions I ever made, it pushed me out of my comfort zone, introduced me to a new culture and way of living, and gave me a sense of independence and growth that I couldn’t have found anywhere else.
When I discovered RVF International and saw how dedicated the team was to supporting people through that same journey, I knew I wanted to be part of it. I remember how many questions I had when I first made the move abroad, and how valuable it was to have guidance along the way. Now, I get to be that resource for others, helping them feel confident and prepared as they take this exciting step.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see participants go from nervous and unsure to thriving in their new environment, and knowing I played a small part in that process is what keeps me inspired every day.
Me with my students
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
My education in Child Development and Welfare plays a big role in how I approach my work at RVF International. Understanding how people adapt, grow, and navigate change -especially in new environments - helps me better support participants as they prepare to move abroad. Many are stepping into the unknown, and my background gives me the tools to provide guidance with empathy, patience, and a focus on well-being.
Having studied and lived abroad myself - in both the U.S. and Spain - I also understand firsthand the emotional and practical challenges of adapting to a new culture. That international experience allows me to relate to our participants on a personal level and offer realistic, experience-based advice. Whether it’s managing expectations, handling culture shock, or adjusting to new routines, I can draw from both my academic training and my lived experience to help make their transition smoother and more meaningful.
My trip to Mexico
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
I’d tell my pre-travel self to embrace the uncertainty and not stress about having everything perfectly figured out. Moving abroad is never 100% predictable, and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. Some of the best experiences and personal growth come from the unexpected moments.
I’d also remind myself that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable at first- culture shock, language barriers, and moments of doubt are completely normal. They don’t mean you made the wrong decision; they mean you’re growing. Be patient with yourself and stay open to learning from every experience, even the challenging ones.
Most importantly, I’d say: say yes more often. Try the unfamiliar food, join the locals, take the weekend trip, and speak the language even if it’s not perfect. The more you engage, the more connected and confident you’ll feel.
Trust the process - it’s going to be more life-changing than you can imagine.
Why should someone choose RVF International over competitors?
Someone should choose RVF International because we genuinely prioritize personalized support and community. We're not just a placement service - we walk with you every step of the way, from the moment you apply to long after you arrive in Spain. Our team has lived this experience ourselves, so we know what it's like to move abroad and start over in a new country. That makes our guidance not just practical, but personal.
We also take pride in being highly accessible and responsive. You’re never just a number to us - our onboarding team takes the time to answer your questions, ease your concerns, and celebrate your wins. We offer detailed webinars, live Q&A sessions, and one-on-one support because we want you to feel confident, prepared, and excited.
What really sets us apart is our commitment to creating a meaningful experience, not just a smooth process. We’re here to help you make the most of your time in Spain - whether that’s through cultural integration, travel opportunities, or career growth.
Choosing RVF means joining a program that truly cares about your journey, both personally and professionally.
My trip to Portugal with program participants
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
RVF International’s mission is to make the experience of living and studying abroad as accessible, enriching, and supportive as possible. We believe that cultural exchange changes lives - it builds empathy, inspires growth, and opens doors both personally and professionally. Our goal is to help more people experience that by removing barriers and providing the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed abroad.
We work toward this mission every day by offering hands-on guidance throughout the entire process - from visa support to housing tips and cultural orientation. Our onboarding webinars, live Q&A sessions, and personalized communication ensure that each participant feels informed and confident before they even step on the plane.
But beyond logistics, we also focus on building a community. We want our participants to feel connected - not just to us, but to each other and to the culture they’re stepping into. By sharing our own experiences, being available to answer real questions, and fostering peer support, we create an environment where people feel empowered to make the most of their time in Spain.
It’s not just about going abroad - it’s about growing abroad. And that’s what we’re here to support.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope participants walk away from our program with a deeper sense of confidence, independence, and global awareness. Living and teaching in a new country challenges you in ways you can’t always anticipate - but it also helps you grow in ways you never imagined. I want our participants to leave Spain not just having visited a new place, but having truly lived it - immersed in the culture, connected with the community, and open to new ways of thinking.
I also hope they build lasting relationships with fellow participants, with their teachers, and with the people they meet along the way. Those connections often become some of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
And finally, I want them to feel proud of themselves for stepping out of their comfort zones, for adapting to something unfamiliar, and for saying yes to an adventure that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. If they leave with new perspectives, great stories, and a stronger belief in what they’re capable of, then we’ve done our job!
Work trip to Seville
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
I always tell them: don't worry - we’ve got you covered! We walk you through everything step by step, from how to find an apartment to making the most of your time off. You don’t need to be fluent in Spanish (though learning a bit helps!), and yes, you’ll definitely have time to explore.
Mostly, I just try to reassure them that it’s normal to feel unsure at first, but once you settle in, it all starts to fall into place. We’ve been there ourselves, so we get it, and we’re here to help make the process as smooth (and exciting!) as possible.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It gets you out of your bubble and shows you that the world is way bigger (and more interesting!) than you might’ve realized.
You learn to see things differently, try new foods, pick up new habits, and maybe even laugh at yourself a little when things don’t go as planned. It’s all part of the adventure.
Plus, it makes you more open-minded, flexible, and confident - not just while you’re abroad, but for the rest of your life. And honestly, the memories you make? Totally worth it!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel is all about connection, not just seeing a place, but actually experiencing it. It’s about learning how people live, joining in local traditions, trying the food, learning the local language, making friends, and maybe even getting a little lost along the way.
It’s when you leave a place with more than just great photos - you leave with stories, a new perspective, and maybe even a version of yourself you didn’t know existed. That’s what makes it meaningful. It changes you in the best way!
