What is your favorite travel memory?
Visiting Prague for one month at the end of 2015 to complete a TEFL course. Prague is a vibrant city rich with culture and opportunities for people of all ages. I enjoyed the TEFL course in particular because I met a number of English-speaking people from the UK, Canada, the USA, Australia and New Zealand. Having the chance to develop my teaching skills while networking with experienced and entry-level ESL teachers was so fun and rewarding!
Which destination is most underrated? Conversely, which is most overrated?
By far, Austria is the most underrated travel destination I have visited. Austria's culture is limitless, it has some of the best skiing locations in the world and has a charming blend of urban and rural appeal. Conversely, London, UK is the most overrated travel destination I've visited. It's, unfortunately, become a tourist trap and one of the most expensive places to visit. Save your money and visit somewhere more affordable!
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
I believe what makes the most successful workplace is a team of staff that enjoys working together, communicates with one another and strives to support each other's goals.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I've really enjoyed working for the English Teacher Training College for a number of reasons. Firstly, the staff and Student Teachers at the organization make working in the office really enjoyable. I've learned that I happen to like working in the education sector and, specifically, in an admissions and recruitment role. I have had a number of opportunities to teach children and youth in Austria and I have to say that working in Austrian classrooms has reminded me how fun and rewarding being a teacher can be.
What unique qualities does your company possess?
The English Teacher Training College is a nonprofit organization. One of its primary goals is to make teacher training accessible for everyone, regardless of their financial situation or location. The College provides Student Teachers with free accommodation during their course in Austria as well as provides globally recognized teaching certifications upon successful completion of the course without cost.
Describe a time when you felt especially proud to be part of your current team.
I feel especially proud to be a part of my team when I see Student Teachers evolve as educators and develop a bond with their students, especially throughout a project week when they have worked with the same group of Austrian students from the Monday to the Friday. Confidence is everything when learning to be a teacher!
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
Student Teachers who return to the College to complete the next level TEFL course have said the organization continues to grow and improve its programming for Austrian students as well as the welfare and experience for Student Teachers. Student Teachers often express interest in returning for the next intake period because they fall in love with Austria and it's young learners!