Peace Boat - GET Universal

My experience as a Spanish and English teacher on Peace Boat began two years ago, last August 2023. I think I'm not wrong if I say that it was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Not only because of the opportunity to do one of the things I love the most: teaching languages while I “live” (in this case travel constantly) abroad, but also because of the people I met ON the ship: The large community that traveled together for more than three months, sharing the same places, food, and constant exchanges of thoughts and ideas made it a truly rewarding experience and fostered immeasurable personal growth. Regarding the language classes—Spanish and English—the participants always showed great willingness and interest in each class or workshop we often held on the ship. Both private and group classes were always well received and helped passengers apply the content they learned on their next stop in the country we would soon visit. Similarly, as is often the case when teaching a language, it's not all about the language, but also the culture. That's why the cultural exchange that took place in those nomadic classrooms that sailed the sea toward our next destination was magical and added that touch of color and curiosity that learning a new language always awakens within you. Of course, it's difficult to convey in a few lines what it's like to teach both languages in such unique circumstances, but it's definitely an experience I recommend to any lover of education, languages, and travel. In addition to all this, I'd like to highlight the great fortune of being on a team with wonderful colleagues, with whom I developed a very good relationship and were always helpful. And of course, two magnificent coordinators: Christopher Lindstrom and Risa Kuwabara, who guided and supported us months before our circumnavigation. Their support and prior experience were essential to making our experience so positive and unforgettable. Sincerely, Genoveva Tomás.

The Peace Boat experience is highly recommended. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to international dialogue, promote peace, and meet people from all over the world. The GET program is a wonderful experience that will leave a lasting memory on you. Don’t wait any longer—send in your application! The selection process is challenging, and the team you’ll be working with is highly specialized. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re motivated and resourceful, you have a good chance of being a suitable candidate.

As a volunteer language teacher on Peace Boat, you will be part of a team that is not only dedicated to their students but to all passengers and volunteers on board. You will experience and learn about many different cultures on and off the boat while you make your way around the globe. There are passengers from around Asia, volunteer teachers, translators and crew from everywhere and guest speakers from the countries you will visit. It is an amazing way to learn about the world.

I volunteered twice as an Advanced English language teacher after securing a TESOL certificate and gaining 18 months of teaching experience overseas. I joined 9 other teachers of both English and Spanish and embarked from Japan to Japan around the entire world! While the majority of the experience happens on board the ship with teaching and learning from educators and professionals around the world, I got to deep dive into Japanese culture and then every 5 days or so, I would wake up to a new port of call in Africa, South America, Europe or North America with the occasional exotic isle like Tahiti or Easter Island. There really was never a dull moment on board with both my volunteer work duties and twelve events every hour on the hour and lots of live music and fun mixer type events.

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I have gained extensive experience in social work through my volunteer roles with the Algerian Red Crescent Charity Association and the Algerian Scouts Educational Organization. These roles allowed me to participate in community-centered activities, collaborate with peers, and cultivate responsibility and independence. I have organized educational trips for children and youth, participated in conferences on social and cultural issues, and contributed to initiatives aimed at community development. These experiences have broadened my perspective, strengthened my interpersonal skills, and taught me valuable lessons in leadership and teamwork. For the past four years, I have worked as an English teacher, specializing in teaching children aged 7 to 15. I have developed a professional and engaging teaching approach that has enabled me to effectively guide my students in learning the English language. I take pride in helping young learners build their skills and achieve their academic goals. My combined experience as a teacher and volunteer has equipped me with the ability to work collaboratively, adapt to different environments, and inspire others. I am passionate about making a meaningful impact, whether through education or community service, and I look forward to bringing this dedication to new opportunities abroad.

Peace Boat is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! I travelled the world visiting some of the most exotic and exciting places that I’ve always dreamed of visiting (Antarctica, Easter Island, Madagascar, Tahiti and the list goes on!). I did so with a wonderful community of people who are passionate about peace, human rights and sustainability. I made lifelong friends and memories that I will truly treasure forever. If you are lucky enough to join a voyage, prepare to feel the same.

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