Staff Spotlight: Natalie Sitarenios

Title:
Student Coordinator

Photos

I am a mother and wife to a beautiful baby and husband. I have been teaching abroad for 7 years and absolutely love it. Really enjoying my current job.

What is your favorite travel memory?

Going with my husband, my boyfriend at the time, to the Philippines and learning how to surf. It was such an amazing experience, being in the little town Baler. Everyone was extremely friendly and so welcoming. We really enjoyed walking everywhere and trying most of the food. We also met a comedian who was quite funny and so down-to-earth. He joined our table too!

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Yes, I have experienced a few things that have made me less ignorant and more open-minded. I have also learnt a bit more from various cultures and countries. I have also experienced a few things in my own country which I wasn’t aware of before.

It is especially nice working for a kind and understanding boss who helps and encourages you along the way.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

I have not been with Evolve Abroad long enough to have a return student, but my first student loved Cape Town so much and really enjoyed the staff and course from Evolve Abroad that she has asked for a permanent job here 😂

We still stay in contact to this day and she often asks about the students and staff.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I would like to go on the marine biology program as I haven’t studied or experienced the program and would love to learn something new and interesting.

Marine biology interests me most as it has to do with nature and life. I really enjoy learning about nature and would like to be more educated in this field.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Our hospitality is something to be proud of as we really go out of our way to make students feel comfortable and a part of the family.

The in-depth experiences are also something to be proud of. We try our best to give the students what they need and want. We let them explore and often they get to learn and discover more about themselves.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

That the students learnt, loved and experienced what they came for.

You need to treat everyone with respect, no matter your status. It is important to be punctual and have initiative. Always thinking of something new and interesting to add to stay with the times. Working as a team will add to the success and make things a little easier.