What inspired you to travel abroad?
When I became an ESL teacher in the Philippines, this opened my mind to exploring other places. While teaching my students, I was inspired after I listened to their stories about their country and culture. It made me wonder what it is like to experience new cultures, meet new people, and see better opportunities for myself.
Why did you choose International TEFL Training Institute Philippines?
iTTi Philippines was recommended to me by a graduate whom I met in HCM, Vietnam. I was able to talk to their director, Mr. Ace, and he explained to me the flow of the program. There was a clear setting of expectations. After hearing the things I needed to hear, I then decided to enroll as soon as I got free time when I came back to the Philippines. The schedule was also flexible.
What was your favorite part about the Philippines?
Even though I am from the Philippines, I know little about Cebu City, where the training was held. iTTi staff in Cebu were very helpful and accommodating to my requests and questions. I asked them for advice on where to stay closer to the center and about what the weather was like so I could prepare the right kind of clothes to bring. They also gave me an idea of the cost of living in Cebu, such as daily meals and transportation.
Rica enjoying her travels
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Being in a new place was not easy, especially when doing something new like TESOL training. It was good that the school assisted me from start to end. One thing I appreciated a lot during the training was the teaching demo, and the practical application of the theory. Given that I have little experience in teaching, it broadened my understanding on what ESL teaching is like, from lesson planning format and framework, to sequencing of activities and implementing them in the class with actual students.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The program staff were very accommodating. They went the extra mile in making me feel comfortable during my whole stay when I was there. They were patient when I needed extra time during lesson preparation, and when I needed more copies and print-outs of materials.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I would have probably managed my time more effectively as to have more time to visit other places.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
The class starts at 9:00 in the morning and ends at 4:00 p.m. It was not a big class, so I had ample time to interact with the trainer whenever I had questions or needed to be clarified on certain topics. The first few days were lecture and input sessions before the teaching practice. The theory includes understanding Lesson Planning, EFL Methodology and framework, classroom management, grammar, and phonology. The teaching practice is usually in the afternoon, or depending on the availability of the students when they are free from their regular classes (elementary and high school). Then, I normally stay for a few more minutes to an hour in the Center to prepare for my lesson the next day. On weekends we are free, so we can visit the neighboring cities and tourist destinations.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
The Center is located in the city centre, so it’s convenient to go around the different shopping malls and coffee shops. Personally, I visited some nearby resorts on weekends. There are resorts with white sand beaches which can be accessed in an hour or two by public transport or private cars.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
When I was there, I was on a tight budget, so I decided to stay in a pension house. It was a room with a private bath good for one person. The food was excluded, but there are food stalls and independent food shops nearby that are reasonably priced and clean. It was convenient too, since it is just near the center, and a safe walking distance.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
It is important to be flexible during teaching practice. The number of students sometimes is unpredictable. The time varies since we have to wait for the availability of the students. The students are either elementary, high school, or out-of-school youth.
Would you recommend International TEFL Training Institute Philippines to others? Why?
Yes, definitely. I learned a lot when it comes to teaching.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Honestly, the experience of being in a new place is memorable, which can’t be compensated with any monetary value. Another benefit is gaining friends and being able to immerse yourself in a new culture.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I now have a wider perspective about other places and people.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means being able to explore new places and meet new friends!
