Why did you decide to teach abroad with EVOLC in Costa Rica?
Pauline: I liked the sound of their programs, the fact that you could participate for a short space of time (I only had three weeks available). Finally, the friendliness and enthusiasm of EVOLC's programs coordinator persuaded me that their program was for me!
What made this teach abroad experience unique and special?
Pauline: The teachers I worked with, who were so welcoming and friendly and treated me very much as part of the team, made this experience special. Plus of course the children at the school - who were a delight and very warm and saw their teachers as their 'friends' - were unique for me, coming from an English schooling background. Of course, like all children they could sometimes be challenging, but this was part of my learning process.
Teaching the children revived my creative side - bringing with it the long lost joy of drawing - which provided a valuable classroom tool. What was particularly special though, was the extent to which I enjoyed teaching the children. The degree of this was a total revelation to me!
I cannot fail to mention my homestay family in Costa Rica. They contributed hugely to this special time - they were kind, friendly and made me feel very much part of the family. I could not have asked for more.
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering teaching abroad in Costa Rica?
Pauline: Before departing your home country, if you know the audience you will be working with, take with you some relevant materials that you think could be useful in teaching English. For example, books, TEFL exercises, self-created exercises and prepared presentations on a USB are all useful (the latter perhaps could include something about your country). Having already given some thought, to the varying ways in which you might teach English to your specific audience, will help better prepare you for the classroom, provide you with confidence and ignite your creativity!
My other advice would be that whatever country you are planning to work in, try and study the language as much as possible before starting work. Although my very, very minimal Spanish did not affect my work at the school, and although I managed fine getting around in Costa Rica, on the other hand, it would have been nice to have a little more understanding of the language.
How has this experience impacted your future? (Personally, professionally, etc)
Pauline: The experience in Costa Rica confirmed to me that I really enjoy engaging with audiences, and that this is a factor I should look for in any future work I may do. In addition, the skills and confidence, which I attained through my time in Costa Rica, helped me to consider doing similar work overseas in the future - and possibly again with children, given how much I enjoyed working with them.