Have you wondered how teaching English abroad will affect your life and your career? Our grad Chrystal took our 4-week, onsite TEFL course in September 2015 and is now back in the States after living and teaching in Costa Rica. See how the course and her time abroad has changed her life!
Where are you living and working (studying) now?
After living and teaching abroad for a year, I am now back in my hometown Olympia, Washington. Currently, I am a senior at Evergreen State College, finishing my Bachelors degree in Spanish and Education. I also spend several hours a week teaching beginner Spanish to Elementary School students.
When did you take your TEFL course in Costa Rica?
I took the September 2015 TEFL course at ITA Costa Rica.
What is your favorite memory of your time in Costa Rica?
Oh my goodness, so many unforgettable memories to choose from! One that stands out the most is going to my first soccer game at Estadio National. Costa Rica lost to South Africa that night, but hearing and seeing the crowd show their passion and pride for their country and their team left me breathless.
When and where did you teach abroad?
After taking the September 2015 TEFL course in Barva, I stayed for a year and worked several teaching jobs in the Heredia area.
What did you learn during your time abroad?
During my time abroad, I learned to be flexible with day to day life and welcome the unexpected. We have great things in store for us when we remain open. In my willingness to seek a life outside of my comfort zone, I became more in tune to an authentic and consciously aware version of myself. I expanded my lens of the world and looking beyond a life of privilege gave me much more respect and appreciation for perspectives other than my own.
How have your TEFL course and your time teaching abroad affected your current job, life, etc.?
y life is much more meaningful and adventure and travel will always be a part of who I am. It was hard at first to adjust to life back in the States after such a life changing experience. It took time to re-evaluate what I wanted to hold as my purpose from it all. But, I realized that I have a great opportunity for teaching both ESL and Spanish within my community. I also have rich life experience that I use to inspire cultural awareness and appreciation. The biggest change, and the greatest gift I received from my life abroad, is that I am now a mother of a 17 month old media (half) Tica daughter, Isabella. She helps me keep the pura vida alive within my heart and soul.
What would you recommend for others considering taking the TEFL course and teaching ESL abroad?
If teaching abroad is something that you have been considering, please do it! You will make lifelong friends and gain strong bonds with people who are just as courageous as you are. To this day, I have continued friendships with people who are living extraordinary lives abroad. And, through ITA you will be a community member for life. I am here, two years later, sharing my journey with you to let you know that anything is possible. Dare to be different. This kind of adventure will bring you closer to who you are meant to become. I had the time of my life and you will too! Your future self will thank you.
When are YOU going to join our alumni family by taking one of our 4-week, onsite TEFL courses in Costa Rica? Contact us today!
