Staff Interview with Rufa Mae D. Saraum

What inspires you about International TEFL Training Institute Philippines?

I work full time on a flexible schedule and the people I work with are genuinely supportive. I love the fact that my boss trusts me to produce high quality work and results. I work hard to maintain that level of trust, which keeps me highly motivated and excited. It also allows me to enjoy and love my other passions in life.

Describe a typical day at work.

In a typical day, I usually do some various administrative duties, such as answering phones, drafting documents and emails, greeting clients, and providing excellent customer service to clients. I keep in touch with the clients, and give them updates. 

What is your favorite part of your job?

The most beautiful part of my job is the the fact that it never gets boring. There are new things to learn and everyone shares the same vision and is dedicated to the company's mission. It creates a family environment where everybody is there for each other. It helps you with your personal and professional growth.

What are some current projects you are working on?

At present, ITTI Cebu Philippines is conducting 2-day weekend TESOL training; one in the afternoon and one in the evening. We are also organizing another batch for the morning schedule. On top of this, we are also busy preparing some local and international accreditation and membership affiliations.

What makes ITTI Philippines special?

The people behind this organization have firsthand industry experience. They have been managers, trainers, and teachers in various capacities until present. So, the trainees will get real industry inputs and market-driven guidance when they become teachers after training. 

Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?

Prospective trainees can take advantage of our (at least) decade of TESOL training experience. We have extensive experience in guiding our graduates for work abroad. Our network of graduates and schools are all over Asia, so participants will have access to many opportunities beyond graduation.

What makes your organization easy to market to potential participants?

ITTI Cebu Philippines is strategically situated in the central part of the Philippines. If you wish to enjoy the city after training by going to malls or nearby resorts, they are accessible from the training center. We also offer different modes of TESOL training for busy individuals and budget-conscious learners.

What do you hope participants take away from ITTI Philippines?

After training, we hope that our participants become independent teachers capable and confident in handling a class. Furthermore, we also want them to have a good experience being with us by bringing them good memories and being able to create a long lasting bond of friendship.

How do you help support participants?

We assist participants who come from other cities outside Cebu by helping them look for their accommodation. While on training, the center is fully equipped with teaching aids and materials at their disposal. After the training, we provide job abroad orientation, as well as interview and resume coaching. We also guarantee all of our graduates our lifetime support.

What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?

Whenever someone shows interest about going abroad especially for work purposes, we always encourage them to be prepared in terms of training requirements, necessary documents, and to read and research about the particular place they want to visit.

What issues do you see in the world of international education that don’t line up with your values and expectations for mutually beneficial & educational relationships between providers/programs and the communities in which they are located within?

There are educational institutions which are too profit-oriented and have no corporate social responsibility program. I believe as an institution we have to give back to the community, no matter how little or big that contribution would be.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

Meaningful travel means meeting entirely new people with diverse backgrounds, learning and understanding their culture, and having unique experiences in the country you are visiting. It isn't just about seeing new places; it’s also about discovering who you are and getting to know how the world works outside your country.