What inspired you to work for TeachTEFL?
I was one of the first members on the TeachTEFL team. The opportunity to grow with the company is what inspired me to work here. The first few years were slow, but I remember how absolutely proud I was when our first student got a job in China.
Describe a typical day at work.
I start off early with a cup of coffee. I do emails and courier certificates first thing in the morning, then I start marking assignments while answering emails and phone calls from students with questions.
Why do you do what you do?
My job is flexible—it allows me to be a mum as well as a teacher. It gives me the opportunity to interact with so many different individuals. I do what I do because I truly love it.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Complex questions from my students. Once in a while I will get a question that really challenges me. I like doing research and figuring out what is correct.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
My education has truly helped me with my customer service and how to speak to my students. It has helped a lot with my workplace relationships as well.
Tanita and her partner with raincoats
What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?
This is a tough question. I do research and ask my colleagues before I help the students to make sure that I provide them with the correct explanation. I used to think that English was fairly basic and that I knew most of the rules and how to apply them, however, there is always room to learn.
What are some current projects you are working on?
We are working on a new course at the moment. I am a mother of a two year old boy and expecting a baby girl in June, so most of my projects are on hold for now.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Be kind and be open minded. Cultures differ and can sometimes be shocking. Remember to always be kind and try and learn about the culture. Most importantly - pack warm clothing.
What makes TeachTEFL special?
We strive for excellent customer service. We also personally mark each assignment. We try our best to give guidance to each of our students. We really want the students to understand what they are learning.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
I believe students should choose our course because it is very comprehensive. It offers value for money. We also add a personal touch to the course and our tutors are always there to help.
What makes your organization easy to market to potential participants?
We are budget friendly. We try to make our course accessible to all individuals. Our course may be a bit cheaper but the amount of information is not lacking. Our course is accredited and provides the students with all they need to know.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope that they take away how to be an excellent teacher. I hope that they realize the impact they as teachers can have on their students and how important communication is.
How do you help support participants?
Our students can email our tutor support at any time. They can also phone us and many students will whatsapp us after business hours for help. We try to answer all questions as soon as possible.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
It is a different world out there. We tend to live in our own ways for so long that we sometimes see no need in traveling abroad, but once you do your eyes open. You realize how small we truly are and about how much there is to learn from other cultures and how beautiful traditions can be. In traveling and experiencing different cultures, you learn so much about yourself.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
It means finding yourself by looking at others. Meaningful travel can open so many doors for you. It helps you grow. It allows you to learn. There is always more to see and experience.
What hopes do you have for the future of international education?
I hope that international education will be more accessible to all individuals regardless of financial means. I also hope that non-native speakers will be considered in the future.
