I chose this program because it gave me the ability to stay in Poland, meet the locals, and get TEFL certified through their scholarship program. It really doesn't get any better than that: All meals were provided, great accommodations, and great people to share your time with. I definitely recommend this program to anyone seeking a meaningful experience in another country.
Alumni Spotlight: Michelle Gean
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Avid adventure seeker by day and writer by night. Traveling gives perspective. You can check out some of my adventures at www.subjectiveillusion.com
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The program provided everything from transportation to 3 delicious meals every day and great accommodations. The only thing I had to worry about was getting to the meeting location in the major city. From there, they handled the rest. You don't need fancy clothes either. Come as you are, and teach, talk, learn.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
The days are long. We wake up at 9am and teach/talk until 9pm. You get to connect with all the participants and have meaningful conversations. Come ready to talk. There aren´t any surprises. The program is well organized and brings together a great mix of people, native and foreign. After doing my first program, I wish I would have signed up for three. They have an option to sign up for more programs to get a bigger discount off of your TEFL certification. Definitely do it if you have the time.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
Wake up at 9am and talk/teach until 9pm every day for a week. You get to eat three great meals everyday (generally, local cuisine) and connect with other native speakers and participants. You can take your lessons outside or stay inside. The last night the participants have a celebration. It is a nice way to end the program. It was an incredible experience all-around.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I think the first thing I thought about was the other people, participants and native speakers. Would it be fun? Would we get along? I can say, the people who also choose to participate in this program are like-minded people. The native speakers are generally travelers too. It makes for such a great mix of people from around the world. I learned a lot not only from the Polish people but also from the other fellow teachers.
Do you need prior teaching experience?
No.