After spending winters during university traveling to Colorado to work at ski resorts, Cameron knew he wanted to keep going to new places to work. He learned about TEFL and now his life in China awaits.
I have always been a traveler. It started with road trips to the Smokey Mountains when I bought my first car at 16. It led me to tackle Tourism as a major at my university and take winter jobs in Colorado.
I had never been out of North America or Central America and decided it wasn't enough anymore. During my senior year, I saved all my money for a two-week trip to China. I spent time wandering amongst the skyscrapers in Shanghai and hiked along the Li River -- I fell in love.
I worked with International TEFL Academy in getting my certification. They had an excellent course that I gained a lot of knowledge and experience from as well as post-graduate country guidance.
They helped with my next steps as far as finding a job, and what I should be prepared for. They got me in touch with Teaching Nomad, my recruiter. They have taken care of everything since and been involved in interview setup, negotiations, and been in touch all the way to the start of my contract.
A lot of emails! Also, communicating with a lot of different cultures. From the start, you are speaking to people about the experience and journey you are about to set yourself on. The days on the way to your start seem to be more about sharing stories than anything else.
Funny enough I think it was just medical concerns. Would I have insurance? What happens if I need to go to the E.R. during my contract?
I actually expressed this concern to my recruiter and he ensured that the interviewer had this conversation with my companies and they all reached out explaining how they would take care of me.
Yes! Most programs offer short work weeks as they know you want to travel, but also make sure you save money. Separate your contracts a month or two apart and go enjoy the world!