What inspired you to work for The TEFL Academy?
I was thrilled to start working at The TEFL Academy, because they offer a product I believe in. A TEFL certificate to the key to new adventures and I was excited to help others open new doors.
Sabrina enjoying the view in Dubrovnik.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is talking to our students. Our students inspire me every day. It’s amazing to see students from all different backgrounds and ages achieved their dreams.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
I spent a semester abroad in Italy during my undergraduate studies. During that time, I taught English to young learners at an international school. My personal experience traveling and teaching helps me provide our students with real life advice.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I would tell myself not to be scared of traveling alone. When I first began living abroad I couldn't imagine traveling to new places alone. I feel that I missed out on opportunities to do and see places I was really passionate about. When I finally took my first solo trip I realized I wasn't alone at all! Wherever you go, there is a whole network of travelers who will be your friends, and help you out.
What makes The TEFL Academy special?
I believe our team makes our organization special. Everyone at The TEFL Academy is so supportive of each other’s personal and work achievements. Our caring attitude towards our colleagues reflects the way we provide support for our students.
Sabrina exploring the villages in Cinque Terre.
Why should someone choose The TEFL Academy over competitors?
We are the world's only TEFL course provider that has received official recognition from government-regulated awarding bodies both in the US and the UK. All enrolments on our Level 5 course also include a free top-up course, so our students can specialize in their preferred field. Lastly, we have a great team of advisors and tutors, who all have experience travelling and teaching abroad.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
We aim to provide students with accurate information, skills and training to ensure they leave the academy with a sound understanding of teaching English, as well as a clearer picture of the TEFL industry as a whole.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
If you could participate on one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?
I would join our TEFL internship programme in Vietnam. I haven't traveled to Vietnam, so 10 months in Ho Chi Minh City would be unreal. There is no fee to join the programme and it has fantastic benefits as well! It's also opened to non-degree holders, which is great for recent TEFL qualified teachers without a degree.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
It's fascinating learning new cultural values and norms. Traveling develops your cultural sensitivity, which allows us to shift perspectives, build our communication skills, and see where someone else is coming from.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel is when travel enriches your life or others' lives in some way. Teaching English abroad is the perfect example of meaningful travel. Not only does it help the students that you teach, but it also helps you.
If I was a student on the fence about participating in The TEFL Academy what would you tell me?
Obtaining a high-quality, level 5, TEFL certificate will open so many opportunities. From teaching online, private tuition, or in the classroom our TEFL qualification will help you generate new income and create lasting experiences. Our Student Services team also have a wealth of experience, which makes them experts in their field, and we will be there to support you through every step. We are passionate about TEFL and are happy to chat openly about our own experiences of the course and teaching English abroad.
Sabrina at the blue lagoon in Malta.
What is the most challenging part of your job and how do you overcome it?
The most challenging part of my job is not moving abroad to teach with our students! I’m happily settled in Dublin now, but it can be hard not to get just a little bit jealous when I hear about all of their exciting TEFL adventures. I have taught in Italy and travelled to over 20 countries, so I get to share my knowledge with our students every day and reminisce on past experiences. It’s also a relief knowing that it’s never too late to teach abroad as our qualification doesn’t expire, so teaching abroad is always an option.
What are some qualities or characteristics that you see students leave with that they didn't originally have when arriving?
Many students arrive slightly worried about the grammar section of the course. We are fully aware that most of our students have not studied grammar since they were at school as children, as a result grammar is covered in the course. It’s great seeing students leave the course feeling confident in their grammar and prepared to create their own lesson plans.
Why should students consider teaching versus volunteering or interning?
I can’t really say which one is better – it really depends on what the student wants to get from their experience. By ‘doing it yourself,’ it provides students with more freedom to choose the country, school and pick who they will work for. It is really rewarding building your own life abroad, so for those who are ready to take the leap then I would say, go for it! TEFL jobs are more lucrative than internships or volunteer programmes, so it will pay off in the long run.
