Why did you decide to teach abroad with WorldTeach in Colombia?
Brighid: I knew I wanted to get to Latin America for an extended period of time, and thought teaching would be a great way to develop skills, be productive and assist the local population. I had heard excellent things about other WorldTeach programs through word of mouth, and Colombia jumped out at me for its certain novelty and mystery - I really didn't know much about it.
What made this teach abroad experience unique and special?
Brighid: Above all, my students. I wasn't just their teacher - I was a friend, confidant, giver of advice and someone to share their country (and snacks!) with. Every day I was learning so much more than I was teaching, whether language, culture, geography or sports. I could not have asked for more loving, charismatic kids in my classrooms all year! Now I know a ton of Colombian/Bogotá slang, popular music and TV shows, current events and the best places to visit all over the country.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Brighid: Teaching English for ten months honed and developed so many skills that I'm just realizing now - public speaking, organization, thinking and planning on-the-fly, even things as simple as memorizing names quickly. My communication in Spanish as well as English improved immensely, and learning to navigate, live and work in a totally foreign environment will prove extremely valuable in the future. I had to adapt to a very laid-back working culture so different from the states that going back to a rigid working schedule might be difficult! Most importantly, my year as a WT volunteer led to my present job - Assistant Field Director of the 2013 volunteers here in Colombia.
