I chose Travel Teacher because I wanted to travel but be more than just a tourist. What caught my eye was that Travel Teacher offered “Meaningful Travel”. I have also been considering a career in teaching for a while and thought that this would be a good “taster” to see if teaching was for me. It also gave me a chance to see a part of the world I may not have had the chance to see.
Alumni Spotlight: Alice Wilson
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Alice graduated from the University of South Wales/Glamorgan in 2015 and has been travelling since then. As a long-term sufferer of Wanderlust, she is trying to see as much of the world as possible.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Travel Teacher was very good at supporting me during the organization process. There was a pre-departure meeting during which the Program Director gave us all the necessary information – currency, budgeting, cultural pointers, etc. Travel Teacher also has an agreement with STA Travel so I was able to get help with my flights and insurance.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
My one piece of advice would be to just get stuck in. I was nervous about teaching, but the students are wonderful and they try their best to make you feel comfortable. So I would say just go for it, and it’ll work out wonderfully.
Go for it with the activities; where else will you get the chance to swim in a lagoon paradise? Go for it with the other Travel Teachers; I’ve met some amazing people and gained some incredible friends!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
One of the great things about Travel Teacher is that there’s no typical day. Usually, it is school from 9 AM until noon; then in the afternoon, there is more often than not a planned activity, followed by free time in the evening. If there is no activity, then it’s a free afternoon to relax. On weekends, there is usually a full day of activities. You will never be bored.
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 actually the teaching. I’ve never been one to get up in front of the group, and the thought of not only getting up in front of the children but also teaching them something terrified me. It was a wobbly start but I got there eventually, and I now love teaching! I now enjoy it so much that I’ve decided I want to pursue a career in some shape or form.
What was the best moment during the trip?
My best moment was by far going out stargazing with some of the other Travel Teachers . There was no light pollution, and so the stars literally lit up the night sky. It was amazing just sitting there, no music, no distractions, with some amazing people I’m honored to call friends.