Alumni Spotlight: Letizia Garlatti

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Why did you choose this program?

I chose the "Teaching Modern Languages for Kids" program with CWVM because I wanted to play the role of a teacher to gain a better understanding of the pros and cons of this profession.

Moreover, I was looking for a country that could offer a different perspective on the world; Morocco is an Islamic country and I am fascinated by their habits and traditions.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My program provider was available whenever I needed advice and he provided me with all of the materials I had asked for - French and English grammar books, for example.

I had to organize the activities and lesson plans myself, but that gave me the freedom to prepare classes according to the kids' level of competence.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

I would recommend preparing the lesson plan and the games for the whole month before the start of the lessons, and eventually adapt it to the students' needs.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

I had classes four days a week, from 9am to 2pm. The day would start with the beginner level students and consisted of basic vocabulary and games. At 10:30am the intermediate students came to class, and we reviewed the most important grammar rules, verbs and pronouns, and writing. At 12:30pm I had advanced class and we discussed current topics and issues, and prepared some sketches.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was not to be able to give proper lessons, I had never been a teacher before and it was clear to me what obstacles I would be facing in the classroom.

In the end, it was much easier than I had expected, as my students really liked me and we built relationships based on mutual respect and entertainment.

Why would you recommend this program to others?

I can assure you that this program is amazing, and it allows you to plunge into Moroccan culture. You're always in touch with local people, and my host family was really welcoming.

Moreover, the schedule allows you to travel on the weekends so you can relax while enjoying the beautiful landmarks of the country (for example, I went to Marrakech, Ourika, Martil, Chefchaouen, and Essaouira).

I loved Morocco so much that I went back to visit my host family twice in the past six months!