Well, I knew I always wanted to teach overseas but I was extremely apprehensive about the costs of an experience abroad. With the TaLK program, you make money teaching and learning about Korea! It's perfect, and they cater to students who are currently earning their degree. They offer 5 month, 6 month, and 12 month contracts depending on your school schedule. Even being a big scaredy cat, I figured I could do anything for 6 months, so I decided to apply.
Alumni Spotlight: Charlotte Jones
What originally inspired you to teach in South Korea with TaLK?
Describe your day to day activities as a teacher?
I taught grades kindergarten through sixth beginner-level English in a public after-school program. Hours with the TaLK program are unbelievably comfortable, which made many of my friends in EPIK acutely jealous. I went in from 12:00-4:00, usually teaching only 3 classes per day with the same students everyday. My classes were usually small, no larger than 15 students, which allowed for excellent individualized attention. I prepared all of my lessons before class, usually in one-week long unit-blocks addressing one main language target through a variety of different activities. With TaLK I had the freedom to design my own lessons and create unique, innovative ways to teach English.
How has this experience impacted your future?
My experience with the TaLK program vastly impacted my future. After graduating with a degree in psychology, I was severely lacking in direction and really wasn't sure which profession I would end up pursuing. However, as soon as I stepped foot into my classroom in South Korea, I knew what I wanted to do. Currently I am back home in the US pursuing my MA in education and plan to go abroad again as soon as I'm finished. I can't wait to go back.