A Profound Professional Experience

This past summer I had the opportunity to teach English in Israel through the TALMA fellowship. I had never taught English to non native speakers, and had never been to Israel previously. I was nervous due to my lack of experience in that specific area but still wanted to apply because I felt that from my educational background and expertise, I could be flexible, adapt and really make a difference with the help of this program. Once accepted to the TALMA program, my hesitations faded. I found a safe and supportive environment that helped me grow professionally and personally. The program was efficiently managed, supportive and well organized. I was connected with professionals from around the world that helped me grow in all aspects of my life. TALMA was well balanced, allowing me opportunities for excellent educational experiences in and outside the classroom as well as many other amazing opportunities. I had time on the weekends to travel within the country and got to explore the best of what Israel had to offer. I enjoyed the professional development that TALMA provided as it was relevant to my experience in Israel but also applied to my teaching career back in the US. TALMA is the perfect program for educators who aspire to achieve excellence in their teaching, are adventurous, and have a desire to make a difference in the lives of ALL students. TALMA provided me with plenty of tools, professional development, mentors and leaders who supported me throughout the journey. I truly felt as if I was part of a family who cared for one another and collectively shared a common goal: to improve the lives of every student with whom we had the privilege of working with. This was the most rewarding summer of my life, I fully intend to apply to return next summer.