TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
What is your citizenship?
USA
What city and state are you from?
DENVER COLORADO
How old are you?
26
What is your education level and background?
Computer information systems at University
Have you traveled abroad in the past?
Yes, many times
If you have traveled abroad in the past, where have you been?
Mexico and a few European countries.
If you have studied abroad in the past, where did you study?
I did not.
What sparked your interest in going to teach English abroad?
I lost my job and wanted a change. I was not interested in my major and I was frustrated with my life.
What were some of your concerns before teaching abroad?
Initial investment and saving money so I could pay my student loans. Asia is very safe so I wasn’t worried about other aspects.
What did your friends and family think about you moving and teaching abroad?
My friends thought it was a great opportunity.
TEFL CLASS INFORMATION
Why did you decide to get TEFL certified and choose International TEFL Academy in Costa Rica?
The sales person convinced me this was the best use of my money. I had a specific window I needed to train inside of, as I was already working in Japan.
Which TEFL certification course did you take?
Level 5 TESOL, In person in Heredia, Costa Rica
How did you like the course?
I loved it because Melanie and Luke were very good teachers and I learned a ton from them really quickly.
How has your TEFL training helped you in your current teaching position?
It has helped me a ton and also helped me get a better position where I save more money a month.
TEACHING ABROAD
After taking the course in Costa Rica, you chose to teach elsewhere. Which city and country did you decide to teach English in and why?
I went from outside Tokyo Japan rural – To Shanghai, China and I live in the middle of the city now.
How long have you been in this country and how long do you plan to stay?
I have been in Shanghai for 7 months now.
Tell us about your English teaching job.
I work for the largest Education Company in the world and China is a wonderful place to live and work. I work very tough hours so I wouldn’t suggest it for a first time teacher, however there are many other companies in China in 2nd tier cities that would be a great and relaxing experience for a first time teacher. Similarly my time in Japan was great for a first time teacher.
ADVICE FOR PROSPECTIVE TRAINEES COMING TO COSTA RICA
What advice would you give someone considering teaching abroad?
Finish your FBI background check you will always be asked for it teaching anywhere. This also opens up Taiwan and Korea as these are requirements.
Would you recommend taking the course in Costa Rica before teaching elsewhere? What are the benefits?
If you have a university degree and want to do this, then it’s worth it. The time in Costa Rica was awesome. I will never forget it. If you don’t have a university degree then you NEED TO DO THIS. Asian people will have almost no respect for you if you don’t have either a university degree or a TESOL certificate. If you have one, they will love you. If you have both, it opens up a huge range of jobs and options once you get one or two years’ experience under your belt.
