There are a LOT of TESL teaching opportunities. You will realize that MANY are run by former TESL teachers, offering to 'license you' in TESL, then they pocket the salary you should have. I found London Teacher Training College, got my international TESL online, then student-taught at CWF.
Alumni Spotlight: Anton Worter
Anton is an experienced certified secondary and community college teacher, and was teaching (in English) overseas. He had the summer off, and wanted to experience teaching TESL in Cambodia. This was his first time teaching as TESL subject, and became his best life-time teaching experience...ever.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
CWF provides full-time support: visa, pickup at the airport, shared dorm room and meals, activities and sense of group cohesion. The Dean is a linguistics expert and addresses concerns, then instructs workarounds. All you need to do is buy the RT plane ticket, get your vaccinations and pack.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Fly in ahead of the quarter, find your own temporary lodging, get down to street level, walk around once you get used to the heat, avoid the bars and discos, and find your sense of presence. It will make your first day easier. Every hostel and homestay speaks English, local food is tasty and cheap!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
School is Monday through Friday, morning and evening sessions of several hours across several grades. Mid-day siesta with a little prep work. Nights are off. CWF provides grade-differentiated handbooks to teach from. You teach students and young working adults who speak, read and write in English, to varying extent.
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 already had a lot of 3W humanitarian mission experience, including in war zones, so Phnom Penh was a French-designed tropical paradise. It was very hot, but you acclimate. My main fear was the unknown of working in PP for four months. That was quickly allayed. CWF's students are wonderfully fun!