The main reason is because I wanted to move to Spain. It seemed like the best fit for me in terms of compensation, hours, and experience.
I also liked the idea of working for the Ministry of Education.I thought it would be a better resume builder than some other programs.
Keep an open mind and talk to strangers (contrary from what my parents taught me growing up).
DO IT!! You only live once and it's the most rewarding experience out there. It's a great way to get to know yourself and learn about different cultures.
I was placed in a town with 4,000 people in the most remote area of Spain (Extremadura). I had hoped to be placed in Madrid, Spain. But because of an error in my application, the request never went through.
Anyways, I debated even going abroad because when I read about the town called Hervas, wikipedia said "wild pigs roam the area". Having grown up in Miami, it was difficult for me to wrap my mind around it. Anyways, I can definitely say that living in pueblito in Spain was the best thing that's happened to me to date.
The people. I was "forced" to interact with people completely different from me that opened my mind to a different way of life. I learnt what it meant to enjoy life and nature.
I worked less than 20 hours a week and traveled twice a month. What else is there to say? I was living the dream! I also went hiking at least twice a week. And napping was completely acceptable and encouraged.
The place and people. Hervas, Spain is completely gorgeous. It's a small serene town filled with charming streets, a well-conserved Jewish quarter, beautiful mountains and plenty of bars & young people to enjoy it with.
My Spanish also improved a lot. I now work in Spanish. Another big thing for me is that it made me get over my fear of public speaking. I remember my hands used to shake the first couple weeks of class.